What Insurance Does a Painter and Decorator Need in the USA?
Painting insurance in the USA has some specific considerations – particularly around lead paint and chemical exposure – that standard contractor GL policies may exclude.
General Liability (minimum $1M/$2M): Covers property damage and third-party injury. Critical check: ensure your policy covers overspray damage (common in exterior painting) and chemical/pollution liability for lead paint or solvent exposure. Some standard GL policies exclude these.
Workers Compensation: Legally required in most states with any employees. Painting is classified as a moderate-risk trade – WC premiums typically run 6-12% of payroll.
Commercial Auto: Required for work vehicles. Ensure your policy covers the transportation of painting equipment and materials.
Lead Paint / Environmental Liability: If you work in pre-1978 homes, standard GL may not cover claims arising from lead paint disturbance. Specialty painters’ liability policies or environmental endorsements fill this gap.
Annual insurance cost for a small painting company: $2,500-$6,000 for a sole operator; $6,000-$15,000 for a crew of 3-5.
FAQs
Does general liability insurance cover paint overspray damage in the USA? Most GL policies cover accidental property damage – overspray typically falls under this. However, read your policy carefully; some policies exclude gradual damage or contamination. Ask your broker specifically about overspray coverage.
Do I need separate lead paint insurance? Not always, but verify your GL covers lead paint-related claims. If it doesn’t, a specialty environmental liability endorsement (~$500-$1,500/year) fills the gap.
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