Build the insurance review around the jobs you accept
Describe the actual trade, project types and services performed. Explain residential versus commercial work, occupied properties, subcontractors and any specialized activities. A broad label such as contractor insurance is not a promise that every job is eligible. Electrical systems, plumbing, exterior access and installation work introduce different questions. Tell Daniel about work you plan to add before assuming an existing policy will apply.
Separate liability, people, vehicles and tools
General liability can address certain claims involving other people or their property, subject to policy terms. Employee injuries, professional services, business driving and mobile equipment need separate discussion. A package may combine selected coverages for an eligible operation, but the package name does not establish all of its components. Review each exposure, policy and limit instead of treating one certificate as proof that the whole business is protected.
Review the customer’s wording before promising compliance
Provide the insurance section of the contract, including requested limits, additional-insured terms and any completed-operations requirements. A certificate summarizes selected coverage and does not independently amend the policy. Endorsements may need separate review or approval. Also distinguish coverage for a covered third-party loss from the cost of correcting the contractor’s own work or satisfying a service warranty.
Prepare a useful comparison and keep it current
Bring current declarations, a description of work, expected revenue and payroll, subcontractor details, vehicles and an equipment inventory. Identify the states where projects occur and where equipment is stored. Compare exclusions, endorsements and deductibles alongside pricing. Changes to the crew, operations or territory may matter after the policy begins. Ask how to report them and confirm the effective date of any new protection.
Compare the details that matter.
The right quote should make the coverage easier to understand. Here are useful things to review with Daniel.
- Covered trades and work exclusions
- Additional insureds and completed operations
- Tools and equipment away from premises
- Commercial auto and employee coverage
A little preparation. A clearer quote.
Describe your trades, project types and subcontractor use.
Bring sample customer contracts and an equipment list.
Build a quote checklist