What Kind of Insurance Do I Need for a Handyman Contractor Business?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
Starting a handyman contractor business is a smart move for skilled professionals offering repair, maintenance, and remodeling services. Whether you specialize in plumbing, painting, carpentry, or general home improvement, protecting your business with the right insurance is essential—not just for legal compliance, but for long-term success.
At Wexford Insurance, we help handyman contractors find insurance programs tailored to their specific services and risks. This guide will walk you through the types of insurance coverage every handyman contractor should consider, why each one matters, and how to choose the right policy for your business.
🛡️ Why Insurance Is Critical for Handyman Contractors
Handyman contractors work in environments where accidents, property damage, and liability claims are real risks. Without proper coverage, a single incident could result in thousands of dollars in legal fees, medical bills, or equipment replacement costs.
Insurance also helps you:
Qualify for commercial contracts
Build trust with clients
Protect your tools and vehicles
Comply with state and local regulations
Safeguard your income and reputation
Types of Insurance for Handyman Contractor Businesses
What it covers:
Third-party bodily injury (e.g., a client trips over your tools)
Property damage (e.g., you accidentally damage a customer’s wall)
Legal defense costs if you're sued
Why it matters:
This is the most essential coverage for any handyman business. It protects you from common risks on job sites and is often required to work with property managers or commercial clients.
What it covers:
Accidents involving your work vehicle
Damage to your vehicle or others
Liability for injuries caused in a crash
Theft or vandalism of tools stored in your vehicle
Why it matters:
If you use a truck or van to transport tools and materials, personal auto insurance won’t cover business-related incidents. Commercial auto insurance ensures you're protected while driving for work.
What it covers:
Damage to your office, workshop, or storage space
Fire, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters
Business interruption due to property loss
Why it matters:
Even if you operate from home, any space used for business purposes should be insured. This coverage protects your physical assets and helps you recover quickly after unexpected events.
What it covers:
Theft, loss, or damage to tools and equipment
Coverage while tools are in transit or on job sites
Replacement costs for essential gear
Why it matters:
Your tools are the backbone of your business. Without them, you can’t work. Equipment insurance ensures you’re not financially burdened if your gear is stolen or damaged.
What it covers:
Medical expenses for injured employees
Lost wages during recovery
Legal liability for workplace injuries
Why it matters:
If you hire employees or subcontractors, workers comp is often legally required. It protects both your team and your business from the financial impact of jobsite injuries.
🧰 Insurance for Specialized Handyman Services
If your handyman business focuses on specific trades like plumbing, bathroom remodeling, or floor installation, you may need additional endorsements or coverage types. For example:
Plumbing contractors may need pollution liability coverage
Remodelers may require builder’s risk insurance for large projects
Painters may need coverage for overspray or chemical exposure
At Wexford Insurance, we work with niche insurance programs that understand the unique risks of each handyman specialty.
✅ How to Choose the Right Insurance Provider
When selecting insurance for your handyman business, look for:
Industry-specific experience
Flexible coverage options
Competitive pricing
Fast claims support
Ability to bundle policies
Working with a niche-focused agency like Wexford Insurance ensures you get coverage that fits your business—not a generic policy that leaves gaps.
Final Thoughts
Insurance isn’t just a box to check—it’s a strategic investment in your handyman business. From protecting your tools to covering liability claims, the right coverage helps you operate confidently and grow sustainably.
Ready to start or expand your handyman contractor business?
Contact Wexford Insurance. We specialize in handy many contractor insurance and can help you find the right policies to protect your business from day one.
