Contractor & Commercial Insurance FAQs
Straight answers to what Colorado Springs contractors and small business owners ask us most, from certificates and workers' comp to roofing and general contractor coverage.
Questions? Call (719) 286-9425Getting Started
Who we work with and how quoting works.
What kinds of businesses do you insure?
Mostly Colorado commercial contractors (roofers, general contractors, HVAC, plumbers, electricians and remodelers) along with other small businesses in Colorado Springs and across the Front Range. We also handle personal lines for our commercial clients and their families.
How do I get a quote?
Call (719) 286-9425 or use the contact page. We'll tell you exactly what the carriers need, usually payroll, annual receipts, a list of vehicles or equipment, and loss runs if you've been insured before. Then we shop it and walk you through the differences in plain English.
How many carriers do you shop?
We're an independent agency with access to 10+ commercial carriers, so we can compare pricing and coverage for your trade instead of fitting you into one company's package.
Can I get coverage if I've had claims or a gap in coverage?
Usually, yes. Some carriers are stricter than others about prior losses or lapses. Be upfront about your history and we'll point your account toward the markets that are the best fit.
How do I file a claim?
Call us first at (719) 286-9425. We'll report it to the carrier, get you the claim number and adjuster's contact information, and stay involved until it's resolved. After hours you can report directly to your carrier and let us know the next morning.
Certificates of Insurance
Keeping your jobs moving.
How fast can I get a certificate of insurance?
Most requests go out the same business day. Send the certificate holder's exact name and address, plus any wording your contract calls for, and we'll match it.
What do "additional insured," "primary and non-contributory" and "waiver of subrogation" mean?
They're contract requirements that extend or prioritize your coverage for the project owner or GC. Additional insured gives them protection under your policy for claims arising from your work. Primary and non-contributory means your policy responds first. Waiver of subrogation means your carrier won't pursue them to recover a claim. Each one has to be supported by an endorsement on your policy, not just typed on the certificate, so send us the contract language and we'll confirm it's covered.
A GC rejected my certificate. What now?
Forward us their requirements or the rejection email. Most rejections come down to a missing endorsement, a limit that's too low, or the holder name not matching. We'll tell you what needs to change and turn around a corrected certificate.
Workers' Compensation
Colorado rules in plain English.
Do I need workers' compensation in Colorado?
Generally yes. Colorado requires coverage once a business has employees, including part-time workers and family members. Sole proprietors and certain business owners can reject coverage for themselves, but most general contractors will still want a policy or a signed rejection on file before you start work. We'll walk you through which applies to you.
I use subcontractors. Do they count as my employees?
They can. If a sub doesn't carry their own workers' comp and isn't properly set up as an independent contractor, your carrier may charge you for their payroll at audit. Collect a current certificate from every sub before they start. We can help you set up a simple tracking process.
What is a workers' comp audit?
Your premium is based on estimated payroll. After the policy year, the carrier checks your actual payroll and any uninsured subcontractor costs, then bills or refunds the difference. Good records and sub certificates keep audit surprises to a minimum.
Roofing Contractors
Coverage for one of the toughest trades to insure.
Why is roofing insurance so expensive?
Roofing has one of the highest injury rates in construction. Falls, equipment accidents and weather exposure all increase risk, but we work with carriers that specialize in roofing to find competitive rates.
I only do storm restoration work. Do I still need full coverage?
Yes. Storm restoration roofers face the same risks as any roofer, and sometimes more given the pace and volume of work after a hail season.
What should I watch for in a roofing liability policy?
Read the exclusions. Some policies limit work by building height or number of stories, exclude certain methods like hot tar or torch-down, or restrict commercial versus residential work. We'll make sure the policy matches the jobs you actually do.
Do my subcontractors need their own insurance?
Yes, and you should require proof of it. If an uninsured sub causes damage or gets hurt, the claim can land on your policy.
General Contractors
Managing subs, owners and lenders.
What's the difference between a GC policy and a subcontractor policy?
GC policies typically cover broader operations, including oversight of subs and job site liability. Subs carry their own policies, but you can still be named in claims that arise from their work.
Do I need builder's risk on every project?
It depends on the project. Lenders usually require it for new construction. Even when it isn't required, builder's risk protects the structure and materials against losses like fire, theft and weather during the build.
Can I get a blanket additional insured endorsement?
Often, yes. Many GC policies can include blanket additional insured wording, which makes it simpler to add owners, developers and lenders when a written contract requires it.
How do I manage insurance requirements for my subcontractors?
Set minimum limits and endorsements in your sub agreements, collect certificates before work starts, and track expiration dates. We can help you build a checklist and tracking process.
HVAC Contractors
Service work, installs and everything in between.
Do I need insurance if I'm a solo HVAC technician?
Yes. Most commercial and residential customers, property managers and GCs require proof of general liability before you start work, and one damage claim can cost far more than a year of premium.
Are my tools and equipment covered on the job?
Not by general liability. Tools, equipment and inventory in your vans or on job sites need an inland marine (tools and equipment) policy. We'll size it to what you actually carry.
Does my personal auto policy cover my work van?
Usually not. Personal auto policies exclude most business use. If a vehicle is used for work or titled to the business, it needs commercial auto coverage.
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