Insurance for Trade Contractors in Los Angeles
Coverage for electricians, plumbers, HVAC, and other trades across the South Bay and Los Angeles. We line up liability, workers comp, auto, and bonds so you can get certificates out and start the job.
Contractor coverage at a glance
- Who we insure
- Electricians, plumbers, HVAC, painters, carpenters, and other specialty trades
- License requirement
- CSLB licenses require a $25,000 contractor bond
- Workers comp
- Required once you have employees, and for all roofing contractors
- Certificates
- Additional insured and waiver requests handled for general contractors
- Quote turnaround
- Usually 1-2 days
Coverage contractors usually carry
General contractors and property owners set insurance requirements before you start work. Most trades need the same core policies, with limits set by the contracts you sign.
General liability
Covers injuries and property damage from your work, including completed operations.
Workers compensation
Covers employee injuries on the job. Required by law once you hire.
Contractor bond
The license bond the CSLB requires to keep your license active.
Commercial auto
Covers work trucks and vans, plus employees driving for work.
Tools and equipment
Covers tools and equipment on job sites, in transit, and in storage.
Umbrella
Adds liability limits when a contract asks for more than your base policy.
What affects insurance costs for contractors
Contractor pricing depends on your trade, payroll, revenue, and the kind of work you take on. Residential remodeling, new construction, and commercial work each price differently.
Contracts drive a lot of the cost. Higher limits, additional insured endorsements, and waivers of subrogation are common requests, and we build them in from the start so certificates go out without delays.
Ways to lower your premium
- Make sure each worker is in the right comp class code
- Keep a written safety program and job-site checklists
- Use subcontractor agreements and collect their certificates
- Review revenue and payroll estimates before audit
- Insure tools on an inland marine policy instead of property
What moves your rate
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Trade
Roofing and electrical cost more than painting or flooring.
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Payroll and revenue
Most contractor policies are rated on one or both.
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Type of work
New construction and commercial jobs price differently than remodels.
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Subcontractors
Uninsured subs can add their payroll to your premium.
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Claims history
Injuries and property damage claims weigh heavily.
Contractor insurance questions
Don't see yours? Call (310) 751-5979 and ask.
What insurance do I need for a California contractor license?
The CSLB requires a $25,000 contractor bond for every license, and proof of workers comp or an exemption if you have no employees. Roofing contractors must carry workers comp either way.
What is an additional insured endorsement?
It extends your liability coverage to a general contractor or property owner for claims arising from your work. Most commercial contracts require it.
Do I need to cover my subcontractors?
Your subs should carry their own insurance. If they do not, your carrier may charge you for their payroll at audit, so collect their certificates before they start.
How fast can I get a certificate?
Once your policies are in place, we can usually turn certificate requests around quickly. Send us the contract requirements so the wording is right the first time.
Find out what you should be paying
Tell us about your trade and crew. We compare carriers and come back with real quotes, usually within 1-2 days.