Contractor Insurance in California

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Contractor insurance in California usually combines general liability, workers’ compensation, commercial auto, equipment coverage and, for projects under construction, builder’s risk. Many clients and license rules also expect bonds. Homewell, an independent broker, compares carriers to build a program that matches your trade, your contracts and your crews.

Updated October 5, 2026

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What insurance does a contractor need in California?

Most contractors need general liability for third-party injury and property damage, workers’ compensation for their crews, commercial auto for work vehicles and an equipment floater for tools and machinery. Larger or public projects often add umbrella liability and surety bonds on top of those basics.

General liability for injuries and damage you cause to others
Workers’ compensation for injuries to your crew
Commercial auto for trucks and vans used on the job
Equipment floaters for tools and machinery that move between sites
Umbrella liability for higher limits that contracts often demand

The right mix depends on your trade, the size of your projects and what your contracts require.

Secure the Ground You Build On. From builder’s risk and liability claims to subcontractor defaults and damaged equipment, we help shield your projects from financial setbacks. Our protection keeps your timeline intact and your budget on track, so every phase of construction moves forward with certainty.

Do subcontractors need their own insurance?

Yes, in most cases. General contractors and project owners commonly require every subcontractor to carry their own general liability and workers’ compensation, and to provide certificates of insurance before work begins. If a subcontractor is uninsured, claims can fall back on the contractor who hired them.

Contracts frequently also ask subcontractors to name the hiring party as an additional insured. Check your contract language with a licensed agent so your policy matches what you have signed.

What does builder’s risk insurance cover?

Builder’s risk insurance covers a building and its materials while it is under construction, protecting against losses such as fire, theft, vandalism and some weather damage. It usually ends when the project is completed and occupied, at which point a standard property policy takes over.

Coverage terms differ by carrier, and perils such as earthquake and flood are often excluded or limited, so confirm what applies to your project before breaking ground.

Do California contractors need workers’ compensation?

California requires employers to carry workers’ compensation for their employees, and contractor licensing rules also address workers’ compensation coverage and exemptions. Those rules have been changing, so confirm what applies to your license with a licensed agent. Coverage pays medical care and lost wages when a worker is hurt on the job.

Rules for owner-operators and exemptions are specific, so confirm your situation with a licensed agent rather than assuming you qualify.

How do I get contractor insurance quotes in California?

Share your trade, your license details, your typical project size and your crew size with Homewell. An independent broker then compares carriers that write construction risks, explains each option in plain language and returns tailored quotes. Requesting a quote is free, and you decide whether to move forward.

Your trade and the types of projects you take on
Your contractor license information
Estimated annual revenue and payroll
Your equipment list and work vehicles
Recent claims history

WHAT WE COVER

General Liability

Product Liability

Bonding

Equipment Floaters

Umbrella Liability

Automobile

Property

WHY HOMEWELL?

Experience that understands construction

Our team combines decades of industry know-how to spot common exposures on job sites and design programs that reduce gaps and surprises.

Key takeaways

Contractors typically combine general liability, workers’ compensation, commercial auto and equipment coverage.
Subcontractors are commonly required to carry their own liability and workers’ compensation coverage.
Builder’s risk covers a structure and its materials only while it is under construction.
California employers must carry workers’ compensation, and contractor licensing rules also address it, so confirm what applies to your license.
An independent broker compares carriers that write construction risks for your specific trade.

Frequently asked questions

Does contractor insurance cover my tools and equipment?

Not under general liability. Tools and machinery are usually covered by an inland marine or equipment floater policy, which can protect items that move between job sites against theft, damage and loss.

Can I get a certificate of insurance quickly for a new project?

Once your policies are in force, your broker can request certificates of insurance naming the project owner or general contractor, and additional insured wording where your policy and carrier allow it.

Do I need a surety bond as well as insurance?

They protect different parties. Insurance protects you from losses, while a surety bond guarantees to a project owner that you will perform the work or meet license obligations. Many projects require both.

What happens to my coverage if I take on a larger project?

Larger projects can change your limits, your bonding needs and your builder’s risk requirements. Tell your broker before you bid so your program can be adjusted ahead of the contract.

Ready to talk to a licensed broker?

Call 866-856-3846 or send your email below and we’ll reach out with options.

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This page is general information, not a policy or legal advice. Coverage, exclusions, licensing rules and eligibility vary by carrier, policy and trade, so confirm the specifics for your business with a licensed agent before you buy.

California Corporate Insurance License #0I5358. Ontario, CA 91764. Content last updated October 5, 2026.