What to check every month or every new job
You fix things for people. Your insurance needs to cover the work you do. Here’s what to check often.
1. Match your class code to the work you do. A class code is a number that tells insurance companies what kind of work you do. If you started doing plumbing jobs last week, your code might need to change. Check with your state’s insurance rules to make sure you have the right one for your work.
2. Update your certificate if a new client asks for it. A certificate of insurance (COI) is a paper or email that shows you have coverage. If a new customer wants proof before you start work, you must send them the latest version. Old COIs can lead to big problems if something goes wrong on the job.
3. Check your coverage limits on the certificate. The COI shows how much money your policy can pay out if something happens. Make sure the numbers match what you need for the job. If you’re working on a new type of project, the limits might not be high enough. Get a new quote if needed.
What to check when your policy renews
Every year or so, your insurance policy will end and you have to get a new one. These are the main things to look at when you renew.
1. Double-check the class code for your state. States have different class codes for the same kind of work. What works in New York may not work in Texas. When you renew, make sure the code on your application is correct for your state and your work.
2. Review your owner inclusion election. By default, your insurance does not cover you if you get hurt while working. If you want coverage for yourself, you need to choose it when you get your quote. This choice can be made during renewal. If you forget, you may not be covered.
3. Update any details that changed in the last year. If you started doing a new kind of job, added tools or equipment, or changed where you work, let your insurance company know. They may change your price or coverage based on the new info.
What to check when you hire your first helper
Hiring someone else changes everything. You must update your insurance fast. These are the key steps to take.
1. Do not let your helper work without coverage. If you hire someone, even for a few hours, your insurance must cover them. Wait until your new policy is active before they start work.
2. Get a new quote that includes other people. The insurance you had for yourself alone won’t work for a business with employees. Your new quote will ask about how many people you have working for you and what kind of jobs they do.
3. Check if your state requires you to have insurance for employees. Most states need you to have workers' comp if you have anyone working for you. It helps pay for injuries that happen on the job. Find out what your state requires before you hire anyone.
What to keep on file at all times
Always keep these papers and info ready in case you need to show them quickly.
1. Your current certificate of insurance. Save it as a PDF or print it out. Keep it in a folder with other business papers.
2. Copy of your policy documents. The COI is just a summary. Your full policy has all the rules and limits. Keep it in case someone asks for more details.
3. Proof of your class code and coverage type. Save any emails or notes from your insurance company that show what code you used and what your policy covers. If someone questions your coverage, you can show them the proof.
When to get a new quote
Here are the times you should get a new quote to make sure your insurance still works for you.
1. When you change the kind of work you do. If you start doing plumbing jobs or electrical work, your class code might be different. Your insurance price and coverage could change too.
2. When you hire someone or stop working alone. Your policy must cover employees. If you go back to working alone, your insurance can change again to match your new setup.
3. When your current policy is ending. Always get a new quote before your current policy ends. If you wait, you might not have coverage for a day or two, and that can be a big problem if something happens on the job.
What to know if you start a new job type
Handymen do many kinds of work. If you start doing something new, your insurance might need to change.
1. Ask your state what class code you need. Each type of work has its own code. Painting, plumbing, and electrical work all have different codes. Check with your state to find the right one for your new job.
2. Update your certificate for the new work. If you send an old COI for a new type of job, you might not be covered. Make sure your certificate shows the new work type and the right class code.
3. Get a new quote if your price or coverage changes. Some types of work cost more to insure. If your new job type changes your risk, your insurance price might go up. Check your quote before starting the new work.
