Whether fixing a leaky faucet, repairing a broken fence, or tackling a home improvement project, handymen play a crucial role in keeping homes and properties in good condition. However, amid the hustle and bustle of the handyman profession, one aspect that may get overlooked is insurance. As a broker, you can help convey the value of handyman coverage, including general liability insurance.
This coverage can not only safeguards handymen careers but, in some cases, also ensures compliance with any local licensing regulations.
The Role of Licensing for Handymen
The necessity of a handyman license varies depending on your location or state. Some states require a license if the job exceeds a certain dollar amount, often around $500. However, even when not required by law, obtaining a handyman license is often a wise choice.
The requirements for getting a handyman license can differ, but they typically involve demonstrating your skills and knowledge and sometimes passing an examination. These requirements ensure that licensed handymen have a certain level of competence in their trade.
Getting licensed offers several advantages. It boosts credibility, potentially increases the customer base, and allows handymen to take on more substantial projects legally. Furthermore, it sets them apart from unlicensed competitors and demonstrates their commitment to professionalism. In addition, obtaining a license places a handyman’s business among the industry elite and can open opportunities to charge higher service rates than those without licenses in the field.
It’s essential to distinguish between a handyman and a general contractor, especially when it comes to professional licensing and sufficient insurance. Handymen typically handle smaller, less complex tasks, while general contractors oversee larger construction or remodeling projects.
The Significance of General Liability Insurance for Handymen
General liability policies provide coverage for legal and medical expenses in case of property damage, bodily injury, or other liabilities while working on a job in a handyman’s capacity.
After all, handymen face a variety of inherent risks in their profession. Accidents can happen, tools can malfunction, and unforeseen circumstances can lead to damage or injuries. Without general liability coverage, they may be held liable for these costs, which can be financially devastating.
The Link Between Handyman Insurance and Licensing
In many jurisdictions, insurance is not a strict requirement for obtaining a handyman license. However, it’s essential to check local regulations, as some areas may have specific handyman insurance requirements.
Even if insurance isn’t mandatory, having it is a smart business move. It provides protection against liability claims and lawsuits that can arise during their work. It also covers property damage and bodily injury, offering peace of mind to both handymen and their customers.
Help Handymen Secure Comprehensive Coverage
The right insurance coverage is more than just a safety net for your handymen clients; it’s a crucial tool for securing their careers. Likewise, licensing, while not always mandatory, demonstrates professionalism and opens doors to more significant opportunities.
For handymen, general liability insurance protects against the unpredictable. It also shows potential customers and licensing authorities a commitment to financial responsibility, making it an essential investment for any handyman operation.
About Commodore
Commodore Insurance Services, Inc. (Commodore) is a California corporation that operates as a Managing General Agency and Program Manager. Since incorporating in 1990, Commodore has developed an expertise in the production and underwriting of insurance products for businesses across the West Coast. Our focus is on providing top-level insurance products to our clients while striving to make it easy to do business for our brokers. Try us and find out why we have continued to be successful for more than 27 years and are recognized as the trusted leader in small business insurance.
