Most contractors will offer their proof of insurance as a normal business practice. If one you’re considered hasn’t, simply ask. If a contractor seems reluctant or acts as if your request is unusual, consider finding a new one.

What happens if contractor doesn’t have insurance?

Workers Compensation Hiring a contractor without workers comp insurance could leave you paying an injured employee or subcontractor’s medical bills indefinitely, just for hiring someone to fix your property. While working on your project, your contractor or a contractor’s employees could get hurt at your location.

What kind of insurance does a contractor need?

General liability insurance
General liability insurance is essential for independent contractors because: It protects you and your business. Independent contractors have the same legal obligations and liability exposures as larger firms. They can be sued for damaging client property, causing bodily harm, or advertising injury.

What kind of insurance should contractor have?

How can I find out if a contractor has insurance?

Contractors can prove that they’re covered by showing you a Certificate of Liability Insurance, but be forewarned: A certificate does not equal coverage. Once you’ve seen the certificate, it’s up to you to verify that the contractor’s policy has not expired, which you can do by calling the agent listed on the certificate.

What to do if your contractor’s insurance policy has expired?

Once you’ve seen the certificate, it’s up to you to verify that the contractor’s policy has not expired, which you can do by calling the agent listed on the certificate. An expired insurance policy is the same thing as no coverage at all. Bottom line: If your contractor has insurance, mistakes that cause damage to your home are a headache.

How to check if a contractor is certified?

Verify a contractor has an active license. Verify a tradesperson is certified. Verify a contractor has an active workers’ comp account. See if the contractor has safety citations or other infractions. Find out if they have any lawsuits against their bond. Complete a tracking request for a subcontractor with an active worker’s comp account.

What happens when a subcontractor has no certificate of insurance?

This situation can be far more reaching but from a workers compensation stand point…at a minimum…it will cost the hiring contractor additional premium they may not have anticipated paying.