Carpenters Insurance
Coverage tailored for residential and light‑commercial carpentry: framing, trim, finish, cabinet installation, decks, and repair. Build the right mix of General Liability, Traditional Workers’ Comp, or a Ghost Policy for owner‑only work. Instant quotes available below.
Who we insure
Solo carpenters, small crews, and LLCs that handle interior/exterior carpentry: studs & framing, trim & finish, doors & windows, built‑ins, decks & rails, and punch‑list work. We align your limits and endorsements to GC subcontract agreements and property‑manager requirements.
- GL limits often $1M per occurrence / $2M aggregate (higher via umbrella).
- Workers’ Comp is required for employees in most states; some GCs require WC even if you have no staff.
- Ghost Policy is an owner‑only WC policy (no payroll coverage) used to satisfy certificate requests. See details below.
Coverages
General Liability (GL)
| Each Occurrence | $1,000,000 typical (higher available) |
|---|---|
| General Aggregate | $2,000,000–$4,000,000 typical |
| Products/Completed Operations | Included—important for finished work |
| Personal & Advertising Injury | Included |
| Damage to Premises Rented to You | Included |
| Medical Payments | Often excluded or low sublimit |
GL covers third‑party bodily injury and property damage. It does not cover your injuries—see Workers’ Comp.
Traditional Workers’ Compensation
| Who it covers | Your W‑2 employees (and you, if elected) |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Medical care, wage replacement, and employer’s liability (per state form) |
| When required | Usually when you have employees; some GCs require WC regardless of staff |
| Subs/1099 | Uninsured subs can be treated as your payroll for WC—collect their COIs |
Ghost Policy (Owner‑Only WC)
An owner‑only Workers’ Comp policy that excludes payroll and employees. Often used to meet GC certificate requirements when you have no staff. Important: A ghost policy generally does not provide injury benefits to the owner unless specifically endorsed to include them.
Instant Quotes — General Liability & Workers’ Comp
Use our instant option for many carpenter operations. If your work involves higher hazards (e.g., structural framing at height) or you need special endorsements, we can broker a custom quote.
What GCs Usually Require
- Certificate of Insurance with Additional Insured, Primary & Noncontributory, and Waiver of Subrogation where requested.
- GL limits commonly $1M/$2M; higher or umbrella for commercial jobs.
- Workers’ Comp proof—even for small shops; ghost policy accepted by some GCs when owner‑only.
- Subcontractor management: collect COIs from 1099 subs to avoid payroll pickup on WC audits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between GL and Workers’ Comp?
GL covers third‑party injury/property damage from your operations. WC covers employee injuries and includes employer’s liability. Many GCs require both.
Does a ghost policy cover me if I get hurt?
Generally no. A ghost policy is typically owner‑excluded and provides a certificate without injury benefits to the owner. Ask if owner inclusion is available in your state.
How fast can I get a certificate for a GC?
Often same day after binding. We can add Additional Insured and other endorsements when supported by the carrier.
Are my tools covered under GL?
No. Consider Tools & Equipment (Inland Marine) for portable gear and job‑site theft coverage, subject to policy terms.
This page summarizes common options. Final terms depend on policy forms and underwriting.
Quote & Help
Tell us about your carpentry business and we’ll follow up quickly with options.