As a plumbing contractor, you’re trusted to work in homes, businesses, and new construction sites — and with that comes risk. From accidental water damage to on-site injuries, even a small mistake can lead to big expenses. Plumbers insurance helps protect your business from lawsuits, job site accidents, equipment loss, and more so you can focus on getting the job done right.
Get a quote from one of our experts at Bird’s Eye Insurance to determine how much you can save on your plumbers’ insurance. We’ll review various types of coverages that best suit your needs.
Protects against third-party claims: Covers property damage or bodily injury you may cause during a job — like a burst pipe that floods a customer’s home or a client who slips on a wet floor.
Required if you have employees: Covers medical expenses and lost wages if your team is injured while working. Also protects you from related lawsuits.
Covers vehicles used for work: Insures your vans or trucks used to haul tools, supplies, and parts to job sites — including accidents and liability on the road.
Protects your gear: Covers stolen, damaged, or lost tools — like pipe cutters, inspection cameras, or hydro jetting machines — whether on-site, in storage, or in transit.
Covers professional mistakes: Protects you if a customer claims your advice or installation led to a costly issue, like code violations or faulty recommendations.
Plumbers insurance is essential for licensed plumbing contractors, subcontractors, and small business owners offering repair, installation, or emergency plumbing services. It’s often required for licensing and by general contractors before you can step on a job site.
Consider the types of plumbing services you provide—residential repairs, commercial installs, or emergency work—as each carries different risk levels. A tailored policy ensures your coverage aligns with your business’s exposure on the job.
Plumbers rely on valuable tools and work vans to operate daily. Make sure your policy protects against loss, damage, or theft so downtime doesn’t turn into lost income.
General liability insurance protects you if a client claims property damage or injury due to your work. If you have employees, workers’ compensation is legally required in most states and shields your business from costly lawsuits.
Plumbers’ insurance generally includes general liability for third-party injuries and property damage, tools and equipment coverage, and often workers’ compensation if you have employees. Optional policies can also cover commercial vehicles, installation projects, and claims for faulty workmanship.
In many states, including Texas and Louisiana, licensed plumbers are required to carry general liability insurance. Some jurisdictions also require proof of coverage to maintain a plumbing license or to bid on municipal and commercial jobs.
The cost of plumbers’ insurance varies based on your business size, claims history, location, and coverage types. Most solo plumbers pay between $700 and $2,000 annually, while businesses with employees and vehicles may pay more for broader protection.
Yes, if you hire employees—even part-time—you’re likely required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If you’re using subcontractors, it’s best practice to have them provide their own certificate of insurance, or they may need to be covered under your policy.
Plumbers’ insurance can cover water damage caused by accidental mishaps during plumbing work, but may exclude coverage for faulty workmanship unless you’ve added endorsements. Always review the fine print with your insurance agent to ensure you’re protected for the risks you face daily.
Yes, if you’re operating as a general contractor and perform plumbing services in-house, you can typically add plumbing-specific coverage. However, some insurers may require a separate endorsement or policy based on the risk level of plumbing operations.
