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2 months ago · by · Comments Off on A Smart Guide to General Liability Insurance for Contractors

A Smart Guide to General Liability Insurance for Contractors

You bought a general liability policy to be your safety net. But most are full of holes called exclusions—specific situations your policy simply won’t cover. Overlooking these details can lead to devastating, out-of-pocket costs for a claim you thought was handled. This is why the cheapest policy is rarely the best one. When it comes to general liability insurance for contractors, understanding the fine print isn’t just smart; it’s essential. Common exclusions for residential work, subcontractors, or pollution can leave your business dangerously exposed to frequent and expensive claims.

Call us: 786-344-9343

Key Takeaways

  • Secure your foundation with essential liability coverage: General liability insurance is the core protection for your business, handling claims of property damage, bodily injury, and advertising errors. It’s a non-negotiable tool for winning contracts and protecting your assets.
  • Choose a strategic partner, not just a policy: The right insurance advisor does more than find a low price; they help you build a long-term risk management plan. Look for a professional who understands your industry and can guide you on safety programs and coverage adjustments as you grow.
  • Read the fine print to avoid costly surprises: Your policy is only as strong as its details, so pay close attention to exclusions for residential projects, completed work, and subcontractor actions. Understanding your limits and deductibles ensures your coverage works when you need it most.

Why Every Contractor Needs General Liability Insurance

If you’re a contractor, you know that every project comes with its own set of risks. From a client tripping over a misplaced tool to accidental property damage, things can go wrong in an instant. That’s where general liability insurance comes in. Think of it as the foundational layer of protection for your business. Learn more in our complete construction insurance guide.

In simple terms, general liability insurance for contractors is a policy designed to shield your business from the financial fallout of lawsuits and claims that can pop up during your daily work. It’s not just a “nice-to-have” item on your checklist; it’s a core part of a smart business strategy. This coverage steps in to handle the costs associated with third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and even advertising-related injuries. Whether you’re a solo electrician or run a large construction firm, having the right commercial insurance is what allows you to focus on the job at hand, knowing you have a safety net in place for those unexpected moments.

Is Your Business Protected from Common Risks?

Running a contracting business without general liability insurance is like building a house without a foundation. It leaves you open to major financial risks. As experts at Baldwin point out, “Without property contractor general liability insurance, construction professionals face significant financial exposure.” A single lawsuit could be enough to drain your business accounts and even put your personal assets at risk.

This essential policy provides coverage for a wide range of incidents, including bodily injury, property damage, and the legal fees that come with defending a claim. Many clients and general contractors won’t even consider hiring you unless you can provide proof of insurance. It’s often a non-negotiable requirement to bid on projects, making it a key that opens doors to bigger and better opportunities.

Identifying Your Biggest On-the-Job Risks

Every day on the job site presents unique challenges. A simple mistake can quickly turn into a costly claim, which is why contractor liability insurance is so critical. It’s built to protect your business from financial losses that stem from claims of property damage, bodily injury, or negligence. For example, if one of your subcontractors accidentally breaks a window or damages a client’s expensive flooring, your policy would help cover the repair costs.

The coverage extends beyond just physical accidents. It also protects against claims of bodily injury, like if a visitor to your worksite trips and gets hurt. Furthermore, it can cover personal and advertising injury, which includes things like slander, libel, or copyright infringement in your marketing materials. It’s a comprehensive shield for the common, everyday risks that are an unavoidable part of the contracting world.

Meeting Legal and Financial Requirements

Beyond protecting you from on-site accidents, general liability insurance is often a non-negotiable requirement for doing business. Many clients and general contractors won’t even consider your bid unless you can provide a certificate of insurance. It’s the baseline expectation that proves you’re a professional who takes risk seriously. As noted by the experts at Baldwin, this requirement makes your policy a key that opens doors to bigger and better projects. Without it, you’re not just unprotected; you’re often locked out of the most lucrative opportunities before you even have a chance to compete.

Securing Licenses, Permits, and Loans

The requirements don’t stop with your clients. Many states and municipalities mandate that contractors carry general liability insurance before they will issue the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally. This is their way of ensuring you can cover any potential damages that might occur during your work, protecting public and private property. Furthermore, if you’re looking to grow your business with a loan, financial institutions will likely ask for proof of insurance. Lenders see a solid policy as a sign of a well-managed, stable business, which can make it easier for you to secure the funding you need for new equipment or expansion.

Deducting Premiums as a Business Expense

While insurance is an expense, it also comes with a direct financial benefit. The premiums you pay for your general liability policy are typically considered a necessary cost of doing business, which means they can often be deducted from your taxes. This can help lower your overall tax burden, making the investment in your protection a bit more manageable. It’s a smart financial move that turns a portion of your premium costs back into savings. Of course, tax laws can be complex, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional to make sure you’re taking full advantage of all the deductions available to you.

So, What Does General Liability Insurance *Actually* Cover?

Think of general liability insurance as your business’s first line of defense against the everyday risks of running a contracting business. It’s designed to handle claims that your business caused harm to someone else or their property. While every policy has specifics, the coverage generally falls into three main categories that protect your company’s finances and reputation.

What Happens if Someone Gets Hurt on Your Job Site?

This is the foundation of any general liability policy. It protects your business if your work, operations, or even your premises cause physical injury to a third party or damage their property. For instance, if a client trips over a power cord at your job site and breaks their wrist, this coverage would handle their medical expenses. Similarly, if one of your crew members accidentally shatters a custom window while carrying equipment, the policy would cover the cost of repair or replacement. It’s important to remember this applies to third parties, like clients or vendors, not your own employees. Your team is covered separately under workers’ compensation.

Protecting Your Reputation from Libel and Slander Claims

This part of your policy protects you from claims that aren’t about physical damage but can be just as costly. “Personal and advertising injury” covers issues related to your business’s reputation and marketing activities. This includes claims of libel, slander, copyright infringement, or misappropriation of advertising ideas. For example, if you use a photo in your marketing brochure without getting the proper rights, or a competitor claims your new slogan is too similar to theirs, this coverage helps pay for your legal defense. It’s a critical protection for your brand and public image, safeguarding you from common but often overlooked business risks.

Who Pays for Medical Bills and Legal Fees?

When a claim is filed, the final settlement is only part of the story. The costs to get there can be staggering, and that’s where your policy truly shows its value. General liability insurance covers the legal fees required to defend your business in a lawsuit, including attorney fees and court costs, whether you win or lose the case. It also includes coverage for immediate medical payments if someone is injured, which can sometimes prevent a small incident from escalating into a major lawsuit. Having this financial backing means you can mount a proper defense without draining your company’s resources. This is a core component of a strong risk management strategy.

Coverage After the Job is Done: Completed Operations

Your responsibility doesn’t end the moment you pack up your tools and leave the job site. What happens if a deck you built collapses a year later, or faulty wiring you installed causes a fire months down the road? This is where completed operations coverage becomes essential. It’s a critical component of your general liability policy that protects your business from property damage or bodily injury claims that occur *after* the project is finished. Without it, you could be on the hook for issues that surface long after you’ve been paid, creating a massive financial exposure that could jeopardize your company’s future. This coverage ensures your work is protected for the long haul.

Understanding Common Coverage Limits

When you look at a policy, you’ll often see numbers like “$1 million/$2 million.” This isn’t just random jargon; it defines the financial boundaries of your protection. The first number ($1 million) is the “per occurrence” limit, which is the maximum amount your insurer will pay for a single claim. The second number ($2 million) is the “aggregate” limit, or the total amount the policy will pay out for all claims during the policy period. While a $1M/$2M limit is a common industry standard, it might not be enough for your business. Larger commercial contracts frequently require higher limits, so it’s crucial to assess your specific needs and contractual obligations rather than just settling for a default amount.

How Much Does Contractor Liability Insurance Cost?

Pinpointing the exact cost of contractor liability insurance is a bit like asking for the price of a construction project without showing the blueprints. The final number depends entirely on the specifics of your business. While it’s tempting to shop for the lowest price, savvy business owners understand that insurance is a strategic investment in their company’s stability and growth. The right policy isn’t just an expense; it’s a tool that protects your assets, reputation, and ability to operate.

The premium you pay is a direct reflection of your business’s unique risk profile. An insurer looks at your operations to calculate the likelihood of a claim and the potential cost if one occurs. A solo painter who works on residential interiors will have a very different risk profile, and therefore a different premium, than a large commercial roofing company with a full crew. Understanding the factors that shape your premium is the first step toward finding a policy that provides robust protection at a competitive price. Let’s break down what goes into that calculation and how you can manage your costs effectively.

Typical Premiums for Contractors

So, what’s the bottom line? While every business is different, a typical $1 million general liability policy for a small contractor can cost anywhere from $300 to over $3,000 annually. Many contractors find their monthly premiums land somewhere between $51 and $78, making it a manageable operational expense. The final price tag is shaped by your unique risk profile, including the type of work you do, your business’s location, the size of your team, and your past insurance claims. A roofer, for instance, faces different on-the-job hazards than an interior painter, and their premium will reflect that. An experienced advisor can help you explore options like bundling coverage into a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) to find savings without creating dangerous gaps in your protection.

How Your Trade Affects Your Insurance Rate

While a custom quote is the only way to know your exact cost, looking at averages can give you a general idea. For many small businesses, a general liability policy can average around $45 per month. However, for a general contractor, the starting point is often higher, potentially around $84 per month, due to the broader scope of work and coordination of subcontractors.

The specific trade you’re in is the most significant variable. A roofer, who faces high-risk scenarios daily, will naturally pay more for coverage than a flooring installer. Similarly, an electrician’s premium will reflect the inherent dangers of their work. These figures are just starting points, but they illustrate how risk is directly tied to cost.

What Determines the Price of Your Policy?

Insurers weigh several key factors to determine your final premium. Think of it as a risk assessment for your business. The type of work you do is the biggest piece of the puzzle, but other elements play a crucial role. These include the coverage limits you select, the number of employees on your team, and your annual revenue, as higher income often suggests more business activity and potential for claims. Your company’s claims history also matters; a clean record demonstrates a commitment to safety and can help keep your rates down. An underwriter considers all these details to build a complete picture of your commercial risk profile.

Your Location and Payroll Size

Your location and the size of your payroll are two other key pieces of the pricing puzzle. Where you operate matters because different states have unique regulations and legal environments that can influence the cost of claims. A contractor in a city known for frequent litigation might see higher premiums than one in a quieter area. At the same time, your payroll size gives insurers a clear picture of your operational scale. A larger team usually means more work is happening simultaneously, which naturally increases the exposure to potential accidents. Insurers evaluate these details to accurately measure your risk, ensuring your premium reflects the true scope of your business activities.

Actionable Tips to Reduce Your Premium

You have more control over your insurance costs than you might think. One of the most effective strategies is to bundle your general liability coverage with commercial property insurance into a single package known as a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP). This is often a great way for low-risk businesses to get comprehensive coverage at a lower price.

Implementing and documenting a strong safety program can also lead to significant long-term savings by reducing the frequency of claims. Finally, working with an experienced insurance advisor is key. A professional can help you find the right balance between your deductible and premium, ensuring you aren’t overpaying for coverage you don’t need or leaving dangerous gaps in your protection.

Bundle Policies for a Discount

One of the smartest ways to manage your insurance costs is by bundling your coverage. For many contractors, a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) is a perfect fit. A BOP combines general liability and commercial property insurance into one streamlined package, often at a lower price than buying each policy separately. Think of it like bundling your home and auto insurance—it simplifies your paperwork and can lead to significant savings. This approach is especially beneficial for low-risk businesses that need foundational coverage without the complexity of multiple policies. It’s an efficient way to secure comprehensive protection while keeping your administrative tasks to a minimum, allowing you to focus more on your projects and less on managing insurance.

Implement a Formal Safety Program

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially in the contracting world. Implementing a formal, documented safety program is a powerful strategy for reducing your long-term insurance costs. When underwriters see that you have a structured plan for minimizing risks—complete with regular training, safety protocols, and proper documentation—they view your business as a more responsible and lower-risk partner. This proactive approach not only helps prevent costly accidents and claims but can also directly lead to more favorable premiums. A strong safety culture doesn’t just protect your team; it protects your bottom line by demonstrating a commitment to operational excellence that insurers reward.

How to Choose the Right Insurance Provider

Selecting your insurance provider is just as important as choosing the right policy. This isn’t just a transaction; it’s a core business relationship. The right provider acts as a strategic partner, offering guidance and support that goes far beyond simply selling you a policy. They become an extension of your risk management team, helping you protect your assets, manage costs, and build a more resilient operation. Think of it as hiring an expert for your team, one who specializes in safeguarding your company’s future. A great partner is proactive, checking in throughout the year, not just at renewal time. They can help you review contracts for insurance requirements, offer insights on safety programs, and keep you informed about industry trends that could impact your risk profile. Making a thoughtful choice here ensures you have a dedicated advocate in your corner when you need one most.

Independent Broker vs. Direct Carrier: What’s the Difference?

When you’re ready to buy insurance, you generally have two paths: going to a direct carrier or working with an independent broker. A direct carrier is the insurance company itself, and their agents can only sell their products. An independent broker, on the other hand, isn’t tied to a single company. Instead, they work with multiple insurers to find the best fit for you. For contractors with specific operational risks, a broker can offer a wider variety of options, allowing for a more tailored coverage plan. This flexibility is key to getting protection that truly matches your business needs without paying for extras you don’t.

Don’t Sign Anything Until You Ask These Questions

Before you sign on with any provider, it’s smart to ask a few key questions. Their answers will tell you a lot about the level of service and expertise you can expect. A great provider will be able to clearly explain their claims handling process, introduce you to their team of advisors, and detail their approach to loss prevention. These factors directly impact your experience and the effectiveness of your coverage.

Consider asking:

  • What is your process for handling claims, and who will be my main point of contact?
  • What experience does your team have with the construction industry?
  • Do you offer risk management services to help prevent incidents before they happen?
  • How do you use technology to make managing my policy and getting support easier?

Why a Good Insurance Partner Is a Game-Changer

Viewing your insurance provider as a long-term partner can bring significant benefits to your business. When a provider gets to know your operations over time, they can offer more proactive and relevant advice. They can help you adjust your coverage as your business grows, advocate for you during a difficult claim, and provide strategic guidance on managing risk. Establishing this kind of advisory relationship is a smart move. A provider who truly understands your business can help you manage claims effectively, which often leads to a more favorable claims history and, in turn, can help keep your premiums stable over time.

What Isn’t Covered? Common Policy Exclusions

A general liability policy can feel like a safety net, but it’s often full of holes called exclusions. These are specific situations or types of damage your policy won’t cover. For contractors, overlooking these details can lead to devastating, out-of-pocket costs for a claim you thought you were protected against. The cheapest policy is rarely the best one, especially if it’s stripped of the coverage you actually need. Let’s walk through some of the most common and costly exclusions you need to have on your radar.

Is Your Completed Work Actually Covered?

If you work on residential properties, you need to be extra careful. Many general liability policies now include blanket exclusions for residential construction, meaning any claim related to a home or condo project could be denied. Another major gap appears after you’ve left the job site. It’s a common misconception that your policy covers issues that pop up later. Many policies cease coverage once your work is completed and the project is in use. This leaves you exposed to claims for long-term defects discovered months after you’re gone.

Your Tools, Equipment, and Property

One of the most common and costly misunderstandings is that a general liability policy protects your own business property. It doesn’t. This insurance is designed to cover damage you cause to a third party’s property, not your own. So, if a ladder falls and smashes a client’s window, you’re covered. But if that same ladder is stolen from your truck or damaged in the fall, you’ll be paying for a new one out of pocket. Your tools, equipment, and materials require a separate policy, typically inland marine insurance, to protect them from theft, damage, or loss while in transit or at a job site.

Professional Mistakes vs. Physical Accidents

General liability insurance is for physical accidents, not professional errors. It covers incidents of bodily injury and property damage, like a client tripping over your supplies. However, it won’t cover claims related to the quality of your work itself. For example, if you install a plumbing system that later leaks due to a faulty installation, the resulting water damage might be covered, but the cost to redo the plumbing work is not. That type of financial loss falls under professional liability insurance, also known as Errors and Omissions (E&O). This is a critical distinction that protects you from claims of negligence or failure to deliver services as promised.

Are Your Subcontractors and Employees Covered?

You hire subcontractors assuming their insurance is solid, but what if it’s not enough? Your policy should act as a backstop, but many now include exclusions for work performed by subcontractors, leaving you responsible for their mistakes. Similarly, general liability is supposed to handle “Action Over” claims. This is when an injured employee sues a third party, like a property owner, who then sues you. Some carriers are removing this crucial protection, creating a significant coverage limitation that could cost you dearly.

Will Your Policy Cover Mold or Pollution Damage?

The word “pollution” in construction refers to common job site materials like mold, asbestos, lead, or even fumes from sealants. Standard general liability policies often have a total pollution exclusion, refusing to cover claims related to these substances. Some policies also specifically exclude damages from certain building materials, like External Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS), which have been linked to moisture issues. For contractors, these are everyday risks. A policy with these common types of exclusions leaves you dangerously unprotected from frequent and expensive claims.

Choosing the Right General Liability Policy for You

Choosing a general liability policy isn’t just about checking a box on a contract. It’s a strategic decision that protects your assets, reputation, and future. The right policy acts as a foundational part of your company’s risk management plan. But with so many options, how do you find the one that truly fits your business? It comes down to a careful review of three key areas: your coverage details, your provider’s stability, and the fine print in your contracts. Taking the time to get these right will give you the confidence that you’re protected when it matters most. Let’s walk through how to approach each step.

Finding the Right Balance: Limits vs. Deductibles

First, you need to get specific about the numbers. Your coverage limit is the maximum amount the insurer will pay for a covered claim, while your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in. It’s a balancing act. Higher limits offer more protection but come with higher premiums. A higher deductible can lower your premium, but you need to be sure you can comfortably cover that cost if a claim occurs. The key is to choose commercial liability coverage that aligns with the real-world risks of your work. Think about the scale of your projects, the potential cost of an accident, and any contractual requirements you have to meet.

How to Vet Your Insurance Provider

The policy is only as good as the company that backs it. Before you commit, do some research on the insurance provider. Look for a carrier with a proven track record in the contracting industry and a reputation for reliable, fair claims handling. You want a partner who understands your business, not just an anonymous call center. A provider’s financial stability is also critical. You can check their rating with independent agencies like A.M. Best, which grade insurers on their ability to meet their financial obligations. A strong rating means you can trust they’ll be there to pay a claim, even a large one, without issue.

What Does ‘Additional Insured’ Mean for Your Contracts?

This is a detail that can make or break your coverage. Many contracts, especially with general contractors or property owners, will require you to add them to your policy as an “additional insured.” This extends your liability protection to them for work you perform on their behalf. It’s vital to review these contractual demands carefully and confirm your policy can accommodate them. Some policies have broad language, while others have specific exclusions that might create a gap in your coverage. Always read the fine print to understand what your policy says about contractual liability and endorsements to avoid any surprises down the road.

Requiring Subcontractors to List You on Their Policy

It’s a common and dangerous assumption: you hire subcontractors, and you figure their insurance has them covered. But what happens when their policy isn’t enough, or worse, it has gaps? Many general liability policies now include exclusions for work performed by subcontractors, which means you could be left paying for their mistakes. This is why a solid risk transfer strategy is non-negotiable. You must require every subcontractor to add your company to their policy as an “additional insured.” This simple step ensures their policy responds first to a claim arising from their work, protecting your own insurance record and bottom line.

The Importance of Proper Licensing for Coverage

Before an insurer will even consider offering you a quote, they want to see that you’re running a legitimate and professional operation. One of the first things they’ll check for is proper business licensing. As noted by industry experts, “Having a proper business license is usually needed to get general liability insurance.” This isn’t just about satisfying local regulations; it’s a fundamental requirement for insurability. Carriers view a valid license as a sign that you adhere to industry standards and operate professionally. Without it, you represent an unknown and unacceptable risk. Make sure all your licenses are current and appropriate for the work you perform to secure the coverage you need.

Insuring High-Risk Work: The E&S Market

What happens when your work is considered too risky for the standard insurance market? For many contractors, especially those in trades like roofing, demolition, or new residential construction, this is a common reality. Standard insurance companies often avoid these higher-risk operations. This is where the Excess and Surplus (E&S) market comes in. As Progressive Commercial explains, “General contractors often get their general liability insurance from a special market called ‘Excess and Surplus Lines’ (E&S). This market covers jobs that are considered high-risk and might not be covered by regular insurance companies.” The E&S market is designed specifically for these unique risks, offering tailored policies when standard options aren’t available. Accessing this market requires a knowledgeable broker who has the relationships and expertise to find the right solution for your business.

Ready to Get Covered? Here’s Your Action Plan

Moving from understanding insurance to actually securing it is a pivotal moment for any contractor. This is where the abstract concepts of risk and liability become a tangible plan for protecting your business. The good news is that the process isn’t nearly as daunting as it might seem. It’s a series of straightforward steps designed to match your unique operational needs with the right coverage. By approaching it methodically, you can ensure you’re not just buying a policy, but making a strategic investment in your company’s future resilience and stability. This isn’t just about compliance; it’s about building a financial backstop that allows you to take on bigger projects and navigate challenges without jeopardizing everything you’ve built.

This action plan is designed to guide you through the entire journey, from the initial paperwork to the ongoing management of your policy. We’ll cover what information you need to have on hand to get started, how to identify an insurance professional who can act as a true partner, and what it takes to keep your coverage effective as your business evolves. Think of this as your roadmap to getting covered with confidence, so you can get back to the work that matters most: building, creating, and growing your business.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Insurance

Getting started is often the easiest part. You can typically get free quotes by filling out an online application with some basic information about your business. To make the process as smooth as possible, it’s a good idea to gather a few key details beforehand. You’ll need your business name and address, number of employees, projected annual revenue, and a clear summary of your operations. It’s also helpful to have your claims history on hand, if you have one. Having this information ready will help your advisor find the most accurate and competitive quotes for your specific contracting work, setting a solid foundation for your commercial protection.

Why Working with an Insurance Pro Is a Smart Move

Choosing a provider is about more than just finding the lowest price; it’s about finding a partner who truly understands your industry. As you evaluate your options, look for a team that offers superior claims handling, dedicated advisors, and loss prevention expertise. A true insurance professional acts as a strategic advisor, helping you build a risk management plan that supports your long-term business goals. They’ll take the time to understand your unique operations, identify potential gaps in coverage, and ensure your policy is structured to protect your assets. This kind of advisory support is what turns an insurance policy from a simple expense into a valuable business tool.

Managing Your Policy for the Long Haul

Your insurance policy isn’t a “set it and forget it” document. Active management is key to getting the most value from your coverage and keeping your business secure. One of the most important habits to build is timely reporting. Promptly reporting and settling even minor claims helps you maintain a favorable claims history, which can lead to better terms at renewal. It’s also smart to schedule an annual review with your advisor before your policy renews. Your business changes every year, and your coverage should, too. This check-in ensures your policy limits and protections still align with your revenue, services, and overall risk exposure.

Call us: 786-344-9343

Frequently Asked Questions

Is general liability the only insurance I need as a contractor? Think of general liability as the foundation of your business protection, but it’s rarely the whole structure. Most contractors also need workers’ compensation insurance, which is legally required in most states if you have employees, to cover their on-the-job injuries. You’ll also likely need commercial auto insurance for any vehicles used for business. Depending on your specific trade, you might also consider policies for your tools and equipment or builder’s risk for projects under construction.

What’s the difference between general liability and workers’ compensation? This is a common point of confusion, but the distinction is simple. General liability insurance protects your business from claims made by third parties, like clients, vendors, or visitors to your job site, for things like bodily injury or property damage. Workers’ compensation, on the other hand, is exclusively for your own employees if they get sick or injured as a direct result of their job.

My client wants to be an “additional insured.” What does that mean for me? This is a standard and very common request in the construction world. When you add a client as an additional insured, you are extending your liability coverage to them for claims that arise specifically from your work on their project. It gives them confidence and protection, but it’s important to confirm your policy can add this endorsement. A good insurance partner can help you manage these requests and ensure your coverage meets your contractual obligations.

What happens if a subcontractor I hire causes damage? Ideally, the subcontractor’s own liability insurance should cover any damage they cause. However, if their policy limits are too low or they let their coverage lapse, the property owner could file a claim against you as the primary contractor. This is why it’s so important to not only require your subs to carry insurance but also to verify it. Your own policy should be structured to protect you from these situations.

Does general liability insurance cover mistakes in my work? This is a crucial detail to understand. Generally, a liability policy does not cover the cost to repair or redo your own faulty work. Instead, it’s designed to cover the resulting damage that your faulty work causes to other property. For instance, if a pipe you install leaks and ruins a client’s custom cabinetry, your policy would likely cover the cost of replacing the cabinets, but not the cost of fixing the pipe itself.

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