Protect Your Handyman Business with General Liability Insurance in Colorado
Part of our guide to handyman services insurance in Colorado.
When a client or contractor asks for proof of General Liability insurance before work can start in Colorado, an unprepared handyman owner faces a tough decision: either get the coverage or lose the job. General Liability insurance covers third-party bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury claims, making it a foundational policy for nearly every small business. In Colorado, where some of the most damaging hailstorms and heavy winter snowfall can lead to costly claims, having General Liability insurance is not just a good idea, but a necessity. Without it, a handyman business is exposed to significant financial risk.
General Liability cost for handyman services in Colorado
Illustrative monthly general liability estimate for a small handyman operation in Colorado. Actual pricing depends on revenue, payroll, coverage limits, claims history, and carrier. Get a personalized quote to see your real price.
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What General Liability Covers for Handyman Services in Colorado
General Liability insurance for handyman services in Colorado covers third-party bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury claims. For example, if a handyman accidentally damages a client's property while making repairs, General Liability insurance would cover the cost of repairs or replacement. It also covers slip-and-fall accidents, which are common in Colorado's snowy and icy conditions. However, General Liability insurance does not cover damage to the handyman's own tools and equipment, which would be covered under a separate Tools & Equipment policy. Additionally, it does not cover business autos, which would be covered under a Commercial Auto policy.
Do Handyman Services in Colorado Need General Liability?
While General Liability insurance is not legally required for handyman services in Colorado, it is often contractually required by property managers, real estate investors, and commercial building owners. These clients typically demand proof of General Liability insurance before authorizing any repair work on their properties, regardless of the job's size. Without General Liability insurance, a handyman business may be unable to secure contracts with these clients, which can significantly limit their business opportunities. Furthermore, in the event of a claim, a handyman business without General Liability insurance may be liable for significant damages, which can be financially devastating.
A Real General Liability Claim a Handyman Could Face
It was a routine job until a handyman in Fort Collins accidentally damaged a client's roof while making repairs, causing $10,000 in damages. The client filed a claim against the handyman, who had General Liability insurance. The insurance company paid the $10,000 in damages, and the handyman avoided a significant financial loss. If the handyman had not had General Liability insurance, they would have been liable for the full amount of the damages, which could have put them out of business.
What General Liability Costs for Handyman Services in Colorado
The estimated General Liability premium for handyman services in Colorado is $40-$110/month. The cost of General Liability insurance varies depending on several factors, including revenue, payroll, coverage limits, deductible, and claims history. In Colorado, the risk of hailstorms and heavy winter snowfall can increase the cost of General Liability insurance. For example, a handyman business with a high revenue and large payroll may pay more for General Liability insurance than a smaller business. Additionally, a business with a history of claims may pay more for General Liability insurance than a business with no claims history. By choosing a higher deductible and lower coverage limits, a handyman business can lower their General Liability premium.
How to Get General Liability in Colorado
To get General Liability insurance in Colorado, a handyman business should gather information about their revenue, payroll, and claims history. They should also determine their coverage limits and deductible. When comparing quotes from different insurance companies, a handyman business should consider the premium, coverage limits, and deductible. In cities like Denver and Colorado Springs, handyman businesses can find insurance agents who specialize in General Liability insurance for handyman services. By bundling General Liability insurance with other core policies, such as Tools & Equipment and Commercial Auto, a handyman business can often lower their total premium. Get your quote today and protect your handyman business from financial risk.
Frequently asked questions
Will my General Liability premium jump after one claim?＋
Yes. A claim can increase your premium. The amount of the increase depends on the severity of the claim and your claims history. For example, a small claim may only result in a minimal increase, while a large claim can significantly increase your premium. Additionally, some insurance companies offer claims-free discounts, which can be lost if you file a claim.
Can I get a COI same-day for a client?＋
Yes. Many insurance companies offer same-day COIs. You can typically request a COI online or by phone, and the insurance company will provide you with a certificate of insurance that you can provide to your client. However, some insurance companies may require additional information or documentation before issuing a COI, which can delay the process.
Does a sole proprietor need General Liability?＋
Yes. Even as a sole proprietor, you are still at risk of being sued for damages or injuries caused by your business activities. General Liability insurance can protect you from financial loss in the event of a claim. Additionally, many clients and contractors require sole proprietors to have General Liability insurance before hiring them for a job.
What's not covered by General Liability?＋
General Liability insurance does not cover damage to your own tools and equipment, business autos, or employee injuries. You will need to purchase separate policies, such as Tools & Equipment and Commercial Auto, to cover these risks. Additionally, General Liability insurance does not cover intentional acts or criminal behavior, such as theft or vandalism.
Can I cancel my General Liability policy at any time?＋
Yes. You can typically cancel your General Liability policy at any time, but you may be subject to a cancellation fee. You should review your policy documents to understand the cancellation terms and conditions. Additionally, if you cancel your policy, you may be unable to secure a new policy with the same insurance company, which can limit your business opportunities.
Do I need to show proof of General Liability to my clients?＋
Yes. Many clients and contractors require proof of General Liability insurance before hiring a handyman business. You can typically provide a certificate of insurance (COI) to your clients, which shows that you have active General Liability insurance. You should keep a copy of your COI on file and be prepared to provide it to your clients upon request.
How do I choose the right General Liability policy for my handyman business?＋
You should consider several factors when choosing a General Liability policy, including the premium, coverage limits, deductible, and claims history. You should also consider the reputation of the insurance company and the level of customer service they provide. Additionally, you should review your policy documents carefully to understand the terms and conditions of your policy.
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Other coverages handyman services in Colorado should know
This article is for general educational purposes and is not insurance or legal advice. Coverage requirements and pricing in Colorado change over time and vary by business. Verify current rules with the Colorado Department of Insurance and a licensed agent before purchasing a policy.