Commercial vs Residential Glass Contractor Insurance: Key Difference
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Glass contractors work in both residential and commercial settings, and the type of work you do has a major impact on your insurance requirements. Understanding the key differences between commercial and residential glass contractor insurance ensures your business has the right coverage, stays compliant, and avoids costly gaps.
This guide explains coverage variations and how Wexford Insurance can help tailor insurance for your specific operations.
Why Insurance Needs Differ
Residential and commercial projects differ in risk exposure, project scale, and client expectations, which affects insurance requirements:
Residential projects: Typically smaller scale, single-family homes or low-rise properties.
Commercial projects: Larger scale, multi-story buildings, high-traffic areas, or specialized installations.
Insurance carriers evaluate these factors to determine coverage type, limits, and cost.
Key Differences Between Commercial and Residential Insurance
Feature / Coverage Type | Residential Glass Contractor Insurance | Commercial Glass Contractor Insurance |
Lower limits often sufficient | Higher limits required due to increased risk and public exposure | |
Standard coverage for employees | May require higher payroll-based coverage and more stringent compliance | |
Optional for custom installations | Recommended for design, structural, or high-value commercial projects | |
Optional for small service vehicles | Often required for transporting large glass panels or multiple jobsites | |
Covers hand tools and small equipment | Includes heavy-duty lifting equipment, large panels, and specialty tools | |
Certificates of Insurance | May be required for some clients | Usually mandatory for contracts, bids, and general contractor approval |
Common Risks by Project Type
Residential Glass Projects
Property damage to client homes
Minor injuries during installation
Smaller-scale material loss
High-value property damage (storefronts, office buildings)
Injuries involving employees, subcontractors, or the public
Liability for large-scale projects, structural glass, or high-rise installations
How Coverage Costs Differ
Insurance costs vary depending on project type and associated risks:
Residential contractors: Typically lower premiums due to smaller project scale and lower liability exposure.
Commercial contractors: Higher premiums due to larger job sites, greater public exposure, and increased project value.
Premiums can also be influenced by claims history, number of employees, equipment value, and state regulations.
How Wexford Insurance Helps Glass Contractors
Wexford Insurance specializes in contractor business insurance and helps glass contractors:
Determine the right coverage for residential or commercial projects
Secure proper liability limits and endorsements for each project type
Provide Certificates of Insurance for contracts and general contractors
Compare multiple carriers to find cost-effective, tailored policies
Conclusion
Glass contractors face different risks depending on whether they work on residential or commercial projects. Understanding these differences helps contractors select appropriate coverage types, limits, and endorsements, protecting both their business and clients.
Working with Wexford Insurance ensures your glass contracting business has tailored, compliant, and cost-effective insurance for both residential and commercial projects, giving you confidence to handle any job.
