Contractor Insurance in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County

Contractors in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County typically need three core coverages: general liability, workers compensation, and commercial auto. Many also need tools and equipment coverage, and larger jobs may require higher liability limits or an umbrella policy before a general contractor or property owner will let you on site.

Why Do Contractors Need General Liability Insurance?

General liability covers injuries and property damage your work causes to others, such as damage to a client’s home during a remodel. Most general contractors and property managers require proof of coverage and a certificate of insurance before you start. See general liability for contractors for more detail.

When Is Workers Compensation Required for Contractors in Florida?

Florida requires construction businesses to carry workers compensation with even one employee, which is stricter than the rule for most other industries. Some business owners may qualify for an exemption for themselves, but that does not cover employees. Read what happens if a business does not carry workers comp in Florida.

Do You Need Commercial Auto Coverage for Work Trucks and Vans?

Usually, yes. Personal auto policies often exclude business use, and a loaded work truck carries more risk. See commercial auto insurance for contractors and service vehicles.

What Other Coverages Should Contractors Consider?

• Inland marine / tools and equipment: covers tools and equipment in transit or on a job site.
• Umbrella liability: adds limits above your general liability and auto policies.
• Builder’s risk: covers a structure while it is under construction.

How Much General Liability Coverage Do Contractors Need?

Many contractors start with $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, because that is what many general contractors and commercial property owners ask for. Larger commercial jobs, condo associations, and government projects may require higher limits, additional insured endorsements, or waivers of subrogation. Always read the insurance section of a contract before you sign it, and send it to your broker if anything is unclear.

What Affects the Cost of Contractor Insurance in Broward County?

• Your trade: roofers and electricians usually pay more than painters or cleaners.
• Payroll and revenue: workers compensation and general liability are often rated on these.
• Claims history: past claims raise premiums.
• Type of work: residential, commercial, new construction, and remodeling carry different risks.
• Subcontractors: uninsured subs can create extra cost at audit time.

Why Work With an Independent Broker as a Contractor?

Contractor insurance is full of details that matter: classification codes, additional insured endorsements, waivers of subrogation, primary and noncontributory wording, and certificate requests that come in on short notice. A broker who works with contractors can compare several carriers, make sure your policies line up with your contracts, and turn around certificates quickly so you do not lose time on a job.

Insurance Risk Advisors is an independent broker based in Sunrise, and we work with contractors throughout Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, and the rest of South Florida.

What Should You Ask Before Buying a Contractor Policy?

• Does the policy exclude any of the work I actually perform?
• Are residential or condo projects excluded?
• How are subcontractors handled at audit?
• Can I add a general contractor as an additional insured easily?
• Is my equipment covered on job sites and in my truck?

What Is a Certificate of Insurance and Why Do Clients Ask for It?

A certificate of insurance is a one-page document that shows the policies you carry, the carriers, policy numbers, effective dates, and limits. General contractors, property managers, condo associations, and commercial clients ask for it to confirm you are insured before you start work. Some will also ask to be listed as the certificate holder or as an additional insured. Keeping your broker’s contact handy means you can get certificates out the same day a client asks, which helps you win and start jobs faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do contractors in Florida need workers compensation?

Florida construction businesses generally must carry workers compensation with one or more employees. Some owners may qualify for an exemption for themselves, which does not cover employees.

What insurance do general contractors require from subcontractors?

Most require proof of general liability and workers compensation through a certificate of insurance, and many require being added as an additional insured.

Does my personal auto policy cover my work truck?

Often not. Personal auto policies may exclude business use, so contractors who drive for work usually need commercial auto coverage.

Related Reading

• General Liability Insurance for Contractors
• Commercial Auto Insurance for Contractors and Service Vehicles
• Workers Compensation Insurance Florida: A Guide for Small Business Owners