Protect Your Roofing Business with General Liability Insurance in Wisconsin
Part of our guide to roofers insurance in Wisconsin.
Severe winters and spring flooding in Wisconsin pose unique risks to your roofing business. General Liability Insurance is not just a good idea, but often a requirement for contractors and clients. You need to understand what this coverage entails and how it can protect your business from third-party bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury claims. In Wisconsin, general contractors and commercial property owners almost universally require roofing subcontractors to carry general liability and workers' compensation. The cost of General Liability Insurance is a concern, but the potential costs of not having it are far greater. You could face lawsuits, damages, and legal fees that could put your business at risk.
General Liability cost for roofers in Wisconsin
Illustrative monthly general liability estimate for a small roofer operation in Wisconsin. 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 Roofers in Wisconsin
General Liability Insurance is designed to protect your roofing business from third-party claims, including bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury. This coverage pays for damages, legal fees, and settlements when you are found liable for an accident or incident. For example, if a client slips on a patch of ice at your job site in Milwaukee, General Liability Insurance would cover the medical expenses and potential lawsuit. On the other hand, General Liability Insurance does not cover employee injuries, which are typically covered by Workers' Compensation Insurance. Additionally, it does not cover damage to your own vehicles or equipment, which would be covered by Commercial Auto Insurance. Understanding what is covered and what is not is crucial to making informed decisions about your insurance needs.
Do Roofers in Wisconsin Need General Liability?
In Wisconsin, general contractors and commercial property owners almost universally require roofing subcontractors to carry general liability and workers' compensation. This is because they want to ensure that you have the financial resources to pay for damages or injuries that may occur on the job site. Even if it's not legally required, having General Liability Insurance can give you a competitive edge when bidding on projects. Clients and contractors want to work with roofers who have the necessary insurance to protect them from potential risks. Without General Liability Insurance, you may be excluded from bidding on certain projects or working with certain clients. Furthermore, if you are found liable for an accident or incident, you could face significant financial losses, including legal fees, damages, and settlements. Having General Liability Insurance can help you avoid these financial risks and protect your business.
A Real General Liability Claim a Roofer Could Face
Green Bay Roofing was working on a project in downtown Green Bay when a passer-by was hit by a falling tool. The passer-by suffered serious injuries and filed a lawsuit against the company. General Liability Insurance covered the medical expenses, legal fees, and settlement, which totaled $200,000. The owner of Green Bay Roofing was grateful to have the insurance, as it protected his business from financial ruin. The incident occurred on a busy street, and the company was found liable for the accident. The General Liability Insurance policy paid for the damages, and the owner was able to continue operating his business without significant financial losses. In Wisconsin, the risk of accidents and property damage is higher due to the severe winters and spring flooding, making it even more crucial to have this coverage.
What General Liability Costs for Roofers in Wisconsin
The cost of General Liability Insurance for roofers in Wisconsin varies based on several factors, including revenue, payroll, coverage limits, deductible, and claims history. The estimated premium is $40-$110/month, but this can increase or decrease depending on your specific situation. For example, if you have a high revenue and payroll, your premium may be higher. On the other hand, if you have a low deductible and a good claims history, your premium may be lower. Additionally, the cost of General Liability Insurance can be affected by the location of your business, with areas prone to severe weather conditions, such as Milwaukee and Racine, potentially having higher premiums. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your insurance needs and potentially lower your premium. It's also important to note that the cost of General Liability Insurance is a small price to pay compared to the potential costs of not having it, which can include lawsuits, damages, and legal fees that could put your business at risk.
How to Get General Liability in Wisconsin
To get General Liability Insurance in Wisconsin, you'll need to gather some information about your business, including your revenue, payroll, and coverage limits. You'll also want to compare quotes from different insurance providers to find the best rate for your business. It's a good idea to work with an insurance agent who has experience with roofing businesses in Wisconsin, as they can help you navigate the process and ensure you get the right coverage for your needs. In Kenosha, for example, you may want to consider working with an agent who has experience with roofing businesses in the area. Additionally, bundling your General Liability Insurance with your other core policies, such as Workers' Compensation and Commercial Auto, can often lower your total premium. By taking the time to research and compare your options, you can find the right General Liability Insurance policy for your business and protect yourself from potential risks. Get your quote today and ensure your business is protected.
Frequently asked questions
Will my General Liability premium jump after one claim?＋
Yes, it may increase. The amount of the increase depends on the severity of the claim and your claims history. If you have a high deductible and a good claims history, the increase may be minimal. However, if you have a low deductible and a poor claims history, the increase may be more significant.
Can I get a COI same-day for a client?＋
Yes, it's possible. Many insurance providers offer same-day COIs for an additional fee. The fee varies depending on the provider and the complexity of the request. You'll need to provide some information about your business and the client, including the project scope and location. It's a good idea to work with an insurance agent who has experience with roofing businesses in Wisconsin, as they can help you navigate the process and ensure you get the right coverage for your needs.
Does a sole proprietor need General Liability?＋
Yes, it's recommended. As a sole proprietor, you are personally liable for any accidents or incidents that occur on the job site. General Liability Insurance can protect you from financial losses, including lawsuits, damages, and legal fees. Even if you don't have employees, you can still be held liable for accidents or incidents that occur on the job site.
What's not covered by General Liability?＋
General Liability Insurance does not cover employee injuries, which are typically covered by Workers' Compensation Insurance. It also does not cover damage to your own vehicles or equipment, which would be covered by Commercial Auto Insurance. Additionally, it does not cover intentional acts or criminal behavior.
Can I cancel my General Liability policy at any time?＋
Yes, you can cancel your policy, but you may face penalties or fees. The amount of the penalty or fee depends on the provider and the terms of your policy. You should also consider the potential consequences of canceling your policy, including the loss of coverage and the potential for financial losses.
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Other coverages roofers in Wisconsin should know
This article is for general educational purposes and is not insurance or legal advice. Coverage requirements and pricing in Wisconsin change over time and vary by business. Verify current rules with the Wisconsin Department of Insurance and a licensed agent before purchasing a policy.