Learn about business insurance requirements and the most common policies for general contractors in Georgia.
General contractors in Georgia may need the following types of coverage to comply with state laws:
General liability insurance is the foundation of a general contractor’s protection. It covers accidents that damage a client's property or cause a bodily injury, along with libel and other advertising injuries.
This policy is part of every Georgia contractor's license requirements. The type of work you do determine how much coverage you're required to carry.
Contractors in Georgia may also need this policy to sign a commercial lease or meet the terms of a client's contract. Adding commercial umbrella insurance can boost the coverage limits on general liability insurance and other policies.
If you own a construction or home improvement business with three or more employees, Georgia state law requires your business to carry workers’ compensation insurance. You will also need to submit proof of workers' compensation, if required, as part of the state licensing process.
Workers' compensation insurance covers medical bills and disability benefits when an employee is injured on the job or develops an occupational illness. It's a key policy for the construction industry and related fields due to the hazards of working with heavy equipment and machinery.
Sole proprietors may not need workers' comp for their Georgia general contractor license, but it's still a good idea to carry this coverage. Personal health insurance doesn't cover work-related injuries, so it can save you from out-of-pocket medical expenses.
If your business owns a vehicle, you must carry commercial auto insurance that meets Georgia's minimum requirements for auto liability insurance.
Commercial auto insurance protects vehicles owned by your general contracting company. It covers property damage and medical bills in an accident, along with vehicle theft, weather damage, and vandalism.
Licensure requirements in Georgia sometimes include a surety bond, depending on the type of license (electrical work, plumbing, etc.).
A surety bond guarantees reimbursement for the client if a general contractor fails to fulfill the terms of a contract or adhere to building codes. Common types of surety bonds include bid bonds, performance bonds, and payment bonds.