Carpenters face daily liability exposures — on new construction, remodels, and repair jobs. Injuries to third parties, property damage, and claims arising from completed operations can lead to significant financial loss. General Liability Insurance for Carpenters helps protect your clients’ businesses from these common risks so a single incident doesn't become a business-ending event.
Novatae Risk Group, in partnership with Empire Underwriters, offers a dedicated General Liability program designed for small- and medium-sized carpentry contractors. Through access to both admitted and non-admitted A-rated carriers (including capacity up to A-XV), our wholesale brokers can help you place accounts with competitive terms that match the scope and risk profile of the project.
Contact us at 800-758-8113 to discuss a carpentry General Liability account with an experienced broker.
Program Overview
This program provides General Liability coverage targeted to carpentry businesses with annual payrolls under $1,000,000. It is tailored for firms working on single-family homes, light commercial tenant improvements, and similar carpentry operations. The product delivers flexible wording options and reliable carrier backing for routine and project-based exposures.
Target Risks
- Residential and light commercial new construction, including single-family homes
- Renovation, remodeling, repair, and tenant improvement work
- Accounts where at least 75% of operations fall under approved carpentry/class codes
Ineligible Risks
- New condominium construction, conversions, and most townhouse projects (limited exceptions may apply)
- Structures taller than three stories (exceptions may be considered by underwriting on a case-by-case basis)
- Operations involving process piping, blasting, tunneling, landfills, emergency systems, or public utility work
Coverage Highlights
- Blanket Additional Insured endorsements to support contractual requirements
- Waiver of Subrogation where required by contract
- Primary and Non-Contributory wording available
- Per Project Aggregate limits to support wrap-ups and GC relationships
- Options for limited Subsidence and Prior Projects coverage
Submission Requirements
- Completed ACORD applications
- 3–5 years of currently valued loss runs
- Supplemental application specific to carpentry/construction operations
- Project-specific Pollution application (if applicable)
Minimum Premium and Market Access
Minimum premiums typically start at $1,500, depending on class mix and underwriting detail. We place business with both admitted and non-admitted carriers rated as high as A-XV, giving you options for capacity and form flexibility across most accounts.
Program Availability
This program is available in most states, including: AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, KY, LA, MS, MO, NV, NJ, NM, NC, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, and WV. Availability on an admitted basis depends on state filing status and specific risk characteristics.
Why Work With Novatae Risk Group
As a wholesale broker, Novatae Risk Group specializes in placing construction-related liability with markets that understand trade contractors. We provide fast underwriting responses, experienced construction-focused underwriters, and access to admitted and non-admitted A-rated capacity through our partnership with Empire Underwriters. Our team helps you structure limits and endorsements to meet contractual requirements while keeping placement practical for smaller contractors.
Need a General Liability quote for a carpentry account?
Email your submission to [email protected] or call 800-758-8113 to speak with an underwriter today.
Example Accounts That Fit This Program
- A five-person framing contractor doing single-family homes and small duplexes with payroll under $500,000 seeking primary GL with Blanket AI for GC contracts.
- A small carpentry firm performing tenant improvements and residential remodels wanting Per Project Aggregate limits and Waiver of Subrogation on key accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accounts are a good fit for this program?
Small to medium-sized carpentry businesses involved in residential or light commercial new construction, remodeling, or repairs are ideal for this program.
Are new home builders eligible for coverage?
Yes — if the work is limited to single-family homes and the business meets underwriting criteria such as payroll limits and class code eligibility.
Can this program accommodate multi-story construction projects?
Projects over three stories are generally ineligible, though limited exceptions may be considered by underwriting on a case-by-case basis.
What documents are required to submit an account?
Provide completed ACORD applications, 3–5 years of currently valued loss runs, the supplemental application, and a project-specific pollution application if applicable.
Is the program available on an admitted basis?
Yes — the program can be placed with admitted or non-admitted carriers depending on state availability and specific risk details.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.