If you own a garage doors installation company, you need workers compensation insurance. Workers' compensation covers claims that arise when one or more of your employees is injured at work. When your workers are injured in the course and scope of their employment, you'll need insurance to cover the costs of medical bills and lost wages. Without this insurance, a court could order you to pay for these expenses out of pocket, which could devastate you and your company.
Workers compensation is a no-fault system. This means that claims are accepted as long as they occur within the course and scope of your employees' work. There are exceptions to this rule, but many claims are accepted even if an employee could have acted in a way to prevent the injury, as long as that person wasn't being reckless or harmful to others. For a more detailed description of which claims will be accepted and which will be denied, speak with a representative from an insurance company.
Workers' compensation insurance is mandatory in most states, but even if it isn't, you would be taking on serious operational risk by operating without it. Like other types of commercial insurance, workers' compensation could save you a substantial amount of money in the long run. Your business and your workers need the security that comes with this coverage, especially given the job-site hazards involved in garage door installation.
In addition to garage doors installation workers compensation insurance, you should also consider general liability, professional liability, and property insurance.
General liability covers claims that result from bodily or personal injuries to clients and bystanders. It also pertains to situations in which one of your employees damages clients' property. As a garage door installer, you spend most of your time working on someone else's garage. If you damage their structure or contents, you could be held liable. General liability will help you cover these costs.
Professional liability protects professionals who may be sued due to errors, omissions, or negligence in the performance of their duties. While often associated with doctors or architects, tradespeople like garage door contractors can also face professional liability exposures. For example, if improper installation leads to costly repairs or injury, you may be held accountable. If you're unsure about your exposure, it's smart to
discuss with an agent.
Property and equipment insurance is needed to protect your assets, namely your tools, inventory, and office space. You likely also need commercial auto coverage to protect your company vehicles and employees as they travel from job to job. These risks are common across contractors and operators who deal with transportation exposures and mobile operations.
For a deeper look at how workers' compensation applies specifically to your field, you may want to review this page on the
importance of workers compensation insurance for garage door installation companies. If your work includes lift systems, you may also want to explore this resource on
garage lift contractors workers compensation insurance.
Ultimately, workers' compensation, general liability, professional liability, property and equipment insurance, and commercial auto protection form the foundation of a sound risk management strategy. Explore all coverage options with a licensed agent to ensure you're protected from the unique exposures in your line of work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is workers' compensation required for garage door installers in every state?
No, requirements vary by state. However, most states mandate it if you have employees.
What happens if I don’t carry workers’ compensation insurance?
You could face penalties, lawsuits, or be required to cover medical and wage costs out of pocket.
Does workers' comp cover injuries caused by employee mistakes?
Yes, most policies cover injuries regardless of fault, unless caused by recklessness or intoxication.
Can subcontractors be covered under my workers' compensation policy?
It depends on how they are classified. Independent contractors are generally not covered, but misclassification can be risky.
What class code applies to garage door installation?
The standard classification code is typically 5108, which covers door and overhead garage door installation services.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.