Expertise. Solution. Service.
MAXIMUM’s Artisan & Trade Contractors program helps insurance agents and brokers place small- to mid-sized contractor accounts efficiently. With broad underwriting capacity and admitted availability in most states, MAXIMUM combines deep trade expertise, flexible terms, and responsive service to address contractor liability, property, and equipment exposures.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
This program is designed for artisan and trade contractors with:
- Annual revenues up to $1 million
- Payroll up to $500,000
- New ventures or accounts with a lapse or no prior liability coverage
- Up to 50% subcontracted work
Good fits include residential electricians, HVAC installers (non-LPG), interior painters, landscapers, small carpentry and plumbing contractors, drywall crews, and similar trade businesses. Example accounts you might place: a newly formed HVAC startup servicing single-family homes, or a three-person drywall and finish crew with steady local contracts.
Target Classes
MAXIMUM targets many common artisan trades, including but not limited to:
- HVAC installation and repair (non-LPG)
- Electrical contractors and interior wiring
- Residential and interior carpentry
- Plumbing (residential and light commercial)
- Painting (interior and exterior up to 3 stories)
- Drywall, insulation (incidental), and tile work
- Janitorial services, carpet cleaning, and window cleaning
- Landscape gardening and lawn care
Shop-only operations and incidental subcontracting are acceptable under the program guidelines.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
- General Liability: Limits up to $1M/$2M with no deductible
- Excess / Umbrella: Available up to $5M
- Property: Building, BPP, and business income up to $3M per location
- Contractors’ Equipment: Scheduled up to $150K per item or $1M per risk; miscellaneous tools up to $15K
Program advantages agents can use when placing business:
- Admitted placement in most eligible states
- Blanket additional insured endorsements available per contract
- Waiver of subrogation and primary/non-contributory wording where required
- Full contractual liability available for many classes
- Access to business solution vendors (HR, background screening, marketing support)
Underwriting Notes and Deductibles
Underwriting is pragmatic and solution-oriented but excludes higher-risk operations. Typical exclusions and restrictions include:
- Operations in AK, CO, LA, or WV
- Contractors involved in large residential developments (more than five structures)
- Work involving fire suppression systems, mold/asbestos remediation, demolition, or medical facilities
- Trades not included in the eligible class list
Deductibles:
- General Liability: $0
- Property: starting at $1,000
- Contractors' Equipment: starting at $1,000
Territories and Availability
This program is available in most U.S. states, including AL, AZ, AR, CA, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, DC, WI, and WY. It is offered on an admitted basis in many of these states to provide competitive, compliant solutions for your contractor clients.
Why Work With MAXIMUM on Artisan & Trade Contractors
As a wholesale broker, MAXIMUM brings hands-on knowledge of artisan contractor exposures and the markets that serve them. Agents benefit from underwriters who understand day-to-day trade risks—jobsite liability, tools and equipment gaps, and contractual obligations—and who will work with you to secure appropriate limits and endorsements quickly. MAXIMUM’s team is solutions-driven and committed to clear communication from submission through binding.
For agents placing small-to-mid sized contractor risks, MAXIMUM offers reliable underwriting, broad admitted capacity, and practical endorsements that meet contract requirements. Reach out by phone or email to discuss submissions or specific accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accounts are a good fit for this program?
Small to mid-sized artisan contractors such as electricians, HVAC techs, painters, plumbers, landscapers, drywallers, and janitorial businesses with revenues under $1 million and payroll under $500,000 are ideal.
Is this program available for new ventures or businesses with a lapse in coverage?
Yes. MAXIMUM accepts new ventures and accounts with a lapse or no prior liability coverage, provided the account meets other underwriting criteria and class appetite.
What are some ineligible risks for this program?
Ineligible risks include operations in AK, CO, LA, or WV; contractors on large new residential developments (over five structures); or trades such as demolition, mold remediation, and sprinkler installation.
What coverage limits are available?
General liability is available up to $1M/$2M, with excess/umbrella up to $5M. Property and equipment limits are also offered to match typical contractor exposures.
In which states is this program available?
The program is available in most U.S. states (listed above), and is offered on an admitted basis in many of the eligible states.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.