Business Coverage
Contractor's Insurance
From the truck and tools to liability on the job site, contracting work carries risks an ordinary business policy may not address. We have products to cater to the needs of many different types of contractors and can help you explore options that may fit your trade.
- NYS Licensed Agency
- Serving NY Since 1969
Common Coverage for Contractors
Most contractor insurance programs combine several policies. These are the coverages we discuss most often with contracting businesses.
General Liability
Often the first policy a contractor carries. General liability may help cover third-party bodily injury and property damage claims arising from your work, subject to policy terms.
Commercial Auto
Work trucks, vans, and trailers typically need a commercial auto policy — personal auto policies generally exclude business use.
Workers' Compensation
New York generally requires workers’ compensation coverage for employees. Many project owners and GCs also require proof of it before you can start work.
Tools & Equipment
Inland marine coverage may help protect tools and equipment that move between job sites — property a standard building policy typically does not follow.
Bonds
Many public and private projects require bid, performance, or license bonds. We can help you explore bonding options for your projects.
Commercial Umbrella
A commercial umbrella may provide additional liability limits above your underlying policies — limits that larger contracts often require.
Coverage by Trade
Every trade has its own exposures — a roofer's risks aren't an electrician's. Choose your trade to see coverage information specific to your work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What insurance do contractors typically need in New York?
Most contractors carry general liability insurance, and New York generally requires workers’ compensation and disability benefits coverage for employees. Depending on the operation, contractors may also need commercial auto, tools and equipment (inland marine) coverage, bonds, and umbrella liability. The mix depends on your trade, contracts, and whether you have employees.
Why do general contractors and project owners ask for a certificate of insurance?
A certificate of insurance (COI) is a document summarizing your active coverage. GCs, project owners, and municipalities commonly request one before work begins to verify you carry liability and workers’ compensation coverage. As your agency, we can issue certificates to the parties that request them.
Do subcontractors need their own insurance?
Generally, yes. Hiring contractors commonly require subcontractors to carry their own general liability and workers’ compensation coverage and to provide certificates of insurance. Without it, a sub’s claims or payroll may be picked up in the hiring contractor’s policies and audits.
Does general liability cover damage to my own work?
General liability policies commonly exclude the cost of redoing or repairing your own faulty workmanship, though resulting damage to other property may be treated differently. Exclusions vary by policy, so it is important to review the policy terms with a licensed professional.
My trade isn’t listed here. Can you still help?
Often, yes. The trades listed on this page are common ones we work with, but we can discuss coverage options for many other contracting and service operations. Call 585-657-6101 or schedule a consultation to talk about your business.
Important Information
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice or policy recommendations. Coverage features described are examples and may not be available in all policies or from all carriers. Actual coverage is subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the policy as issued. Please consult with a licensed insurance professional to discuss your specific coverage needs and options. Stan Steele Agency is licensed in New York State (NYS Insurance License Nos. PC-665308, BR-665308, LA-665308).
Let's Talk About Your Contracting Business
Schedule an appointment or give us a call. A licensed insurance professional can help you understand the coverage options for your trade.