Understanding the difference between insurance for contractors and subcontractors is essential for protecting any job site. Whether you're overseeing a major build or hiring specialty trades, the right coverage keeps your business compliant, protected, and financially secure.

Why Insurance Matters on Every Job

Contractors and subcontractors face unique risks every day—injury, property damage, lawsuits, equipment loss, and more. Proper commercial insurance ensures that each party carries coverage suited to their responsibilities, reducing costly disputes and gaps in protection.

What Contractors Typically Need

General contractors often carry broad, comprehensive insurance since they manage the entire project. This may include:

- General liability insurance Washington businesses rely on for third-party injury or damage
- Business owners policy WA (BOP insurance Washington) combining liability and property coverage
- Commercial auto insurance WA or commercial fleet insurance Washington for work vehicles
- Property insurance for business WA for offices, tools, and materials
- Contractor bonds WA or surety bonds Washington for licensing and project guarantees

What Subcontractors Typically Need

Subcontractors—such as roofers, HVAC professionals, painters, cabinet installers, or concrete contractors—require insurance tailored to their specialty. This often includes:

- Specialty contractor insurance WA customized for each trade
- Contractor insurance Washington for job-specific risk
- Workers’ compensation if they employ crews
- Tools and equipment coverage
- Cyber liability insurance WA or data breach insurance WA for those handling sensitive client data

Why Contractor and Subcontractor Coverage Must Work Together

Most general contractors require subcontractors to carry their own coverage and list them as additional insureds. This protects everyone from shared risk and ensures smoother claims handling. It also helps avoid situations where one party becomes responsible for another’s mistake.

Choosing the Right Protection

Whether you're a general contractor, home builder, remodeler, roofer, HVAC contractor, painter, or any other specialty trade, having the right insurance in Washington can make all the difference. Each policy should reflect the size of your business, the type of work you perform, and the specific risks you face on the job.

If you want guidance on commercial insurance Washington businesses trust—whether you’re a contractor or subcontractor—we’re here to help you find the right protection tailored to your needs.