Handyman Insurance from Massachusetts Specialists

Roger Keith & Sons

What is handyman insurance?

Performing general repairs for homeowners and business owners can be profitable work, but it’s not without potential risks. From lawsuits to property losses, handyman insurance can help general repair professionals shield themselves from a range of potential risks.

Handyman insurance offers specialized commercial coverage for handymen (and handywomen). Policies typically come with several coverages bundled together at an affordable rate.

Who in Massachusetts should have self-employed handyman insurance?

Most self-employed general repair professionals in Massachusetts should consider self-employed handyman insurance. Many of these professionals are sole proprietors, but they could have LLCs.

Professionals who have more specialized skills may need a somewhat more specialized insurance policy. Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, masons and other skilled tradesmen are often better served by a policy that’s specific to their work.

An insurance agent who specializes in handyman and similar policies can help determine which type of policy would be best for a specific scope of work.

What coverages are available through self-employed handyman insurance policies?

Self-employed handyman insurance policies normally offer a variety of coverages, and the exact coverages contained within a policy can usually be customized. Some commonly included coverages are:

• Business Property Coverage, which may cover facilities, equipment and tools owned by a general repair professional
• Commercial Vehicle Coverage, which may cover a commercially registered vehicle that’s used for work
• Inland Marine Coverage, which may cover equipment, tools and supplies as they’re moved between locations
• Crime or Theft Coverage, which may cover equipment, tools and vehicles specifically against theft
• General Liability Coverage, which may cover common accidents that a professional is allegedly responsible for
• Commercial Umbrella Coverage, which may provide supplemental liability protection for expensive lawsuits
• Business Interruption Coverage, which may cover prolonged periods of lost revenue due to a natural disaster

Are general repair professionals insured through their employer?

Most general repair professionals who are traditional employees receive certain protections from their employer. While additional insurance might be obtained, professionals who are employees rarely take out their own policy just for their employment.

Sometimes professionals who are employees need their coverage for side work that they do. Any employer-provided policy is likely limited to work that’s done for the employer, and thus any side hustles, one-off projects, moonlighting or other gigs may not be covered.
Most professionals who are self-employed, independent contractors, or subcontractors don’t have an employee to receive insurance from. These professionals usually need a self-employed handyman insurance policy (or other policy) for protection.

Workers who are unsure what category they fall into can check their tax documents. Employees usually receive W2s, and self-employed contractors normally receive 1099s. Again, a knowledgeable insurance agent can help sort out whether a handyman policy is needed.

How much are handyman policies’ premiums?

Premiums for handyman policies vary, as they’re based on many different factors. A few of the many details that can affect rates include the following:

• Primary business location
• Geographic area served
• Scope of services provided
• Equipment used
• Specific limits chosen

Despite the variances in policies’ premiums, coverage tends to be affordable even for handymen and handywomen. An independent insurance agent can help professionals find out just how much coverage will cost in their situation.

How can Massachusetts general repair professionals get handyman insurance?

For help finding insurance as a general repair professional, contact us at Roger Keith & Sons Insurance. Our agents can show you policy options from several different insurers, and we have the expertise to help you decide which handyman insurance option is best for you. With our assistance, you can be confident that you’re well covered at an affordable rate.