Protect Your Business with Contractors Insurance and Bonds
Essential Insurance for Plumbers
1. Plumbing Contractors Insurance (Essential Coverage)
✅ Covers:
- Third-party bodily injury (if a customer or bystander is hurt)
- Property damage caused by your work
- Legal fees if you're sued for covered claims
Example: While installing pipes, you accidentally flood a client’s basement. General liability covers the repair costs.
✔ Why You Need It: Most clients and contracts require proof of general liability insurance before hiring a plumber.
2. Tools & Equipment Insurance (Protect Your Gear)
✅ Covers:
- Theft or damage of your plumbing tools and equipment
- Loss of expensive gear due to fire, vandalism, or accidents
Example: Your work van is broken into, and your power tools are stolen. This policy helps replace them.
✔ Why You Need It: Plumbers rely on specialized tools, which can be costly to replace.
3. Commercial Auto Insurance (For Work Vehicles)
✅ Covers:
- Accidents while driving for work
- Damage to your work van or truck
- Liability for injuries or property damage caused in a work-related accident
Example: While driving to a client’s home, you hit another vehicle. Commercial auto insurance covers the damages.
✔ Why You Need It: Personal auto insurance won’t cover business-related driving.
4. Workers’ Compensation Insurance (If You Have Employees)
✅ Covers:
- Medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job
- Legal costs if an employee sues over a workplace injury
Example: Your apprentice slips on a wet floor at a job site and fractures their wrist. Workers’ comp covers their medical bills and lost wages.
✔ Why You Need It: Required by law in most states if you have employees.
5. Professional Liability Insurance (Errors & Omissions)
✅ Covers:
- Mistakes in workmanship that lead to financial losses
- Claims that your work didn’t meet professional standards
Example: A customer claims your plumbing installation was faulty, leading to mold damage in their home. This insurance helps cover legal fees and repairs.
✔ Why You Need It: Protects against lawsuits due to plumbing errors or negligence.
6. Commercial Property Insurance (If You Own a Shop or Office)
✅ Covers:
- Damage to your business location from fire, theft, or storms
- Loss of office equipment, inventory, and plumbing supplies
Example: A fire damages your plumbing shop and destroys your inventory. This policy helps cover rebuilding and replacements.
✔ Why You Need It: Essential if you store plumbing supplies, tools, or have an office.
How Much Does Plumber’s Insurance Cost?
The cost varies based on:
🔹 Business size and location
🔹 Coverage limits and deductibles
🔹 Number of employees
💰 Estimated Annual Costs:
- General Liability: $500 - $2,000
- Tools & Equipment: $100 - $750
- Commercial Auto: $1,200 - $3,000
- Workers’ Comp: Varies by state and payroll size
Final Thoughts
Plumbing work comes with risks, but the right insurance keeps your business financially protected from unexpected accidents, damage claims, and lawsuits. Many clients require insurance before hiring a plumber, so having proper coverage can also help you win more jobs.
Would you like help finding the best policy for your plumbing business?
Call or get a Quote 360-331-4440
