Running a contracting business comes with risk. Whether you’re a general contractor, roofer, remodeler, electrician, plumber, or another construction professional, every job brings different people, properties, equipment, and potential liabilities into the picture.

That’s why contractor general liability insurance in Connecticut is such an important part of protecting your business.

But simply having an insurance policy—or a certificate of insurance—doesn’t necessarily mean every risk your company faces is covered.

What Does Contractor General Liability Insurance Cover?

General liability insurance is designed to help protect your business from certain third-party claims involving bodily injury and property damage.

For example, coverage may come into play if a customer or visitor is injured at a job site or if your operations accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property.

Depending on the policy and circumstances, coverage may also help with certain legal defense costs.

However, policies have limits, conditions, and exclusions. That’s why understanding your actual coverage is just as important as having it.

What About Construction Defects?

Construction defect claims can become complicated.

A general liability policy should not be viewed as a warranty on your work. Claims involving faulty workmanship, resulting property damage, subcontractors, or completed operations can be treated differently depending on the circumstances and policy language.

Contractors should understand how their policy addresses the specific work they perform rather than assuming every construction-related claim will automatically be covered.

Are Your Subcontractors Creating Additional Risk?

Many Connecticut contractors rely on subcontractors to complete portions of a project.

Before work begins, it’s important to establish insurance requirements, collect current certificates of insurance, maintain good records, and understand any contractual requirements that may apply.

Your insurance agent can also help you understand questions surrounding additional insured status and other coverage considerations.

General Liability May Be Only One Piece

Contractors often have exposures that extend well beyond general liability. Depending on your operation, your insurance program may also include:

Workers’ compensation
Commercial auto insurance
Contractors tools and equipment coverage
Commercial property insurance
Bonds
Commercial umbrella insurance

As your company takes on larger projects, adds employees, purchases equipment, or uses more subcontractors, your insurance needs can change.

Review Your Connecticut Contractor Insurance

No two contracting businesses operate exactly the same way. Your insurance should reflect the work you actually perform, the projects you accept, and the risks your company faces.

At Petruzelo Insurance, we help contractors in Wallingford, North Haven, Meriden, Cheshire, Hamden, New Haven County, and throughout Connecticut understand their business insurance options.

Contact Petruzelo Insurance today for a contractor insurance review and make sure your coverage is keeping up with your business.