Contractor Insurance in Knoxville, TN
Contractor insurance is the set of policies a construction business needs to bid jobs, satisfy general contractors and survive a bad day on site: general liability, workers' compensation, commercial auto, tools and equipment coverage and often builder's risk. We insure general contractors, roofers, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, framers, painters, masons, excavators and specialty subs across East Tennessee.
Coverage contractors usually need
- General liability with completed operations, so a callback months after the job is still covered
- Workers' compensation, or an exemption policy for qualifying owners
- Commercial auto for work trucks and trailers
- Tools and equipment (inland marine) for stolen or damaged gear
- Builder's risk for projects under construction
- Umbrella limits when contracts require more than your primary policy
Tennessee workers' comp for construction
Tennessee treats construction differently from most industries. Construction businesses generally must carry workers' compensation once they have even one employee, while many other industries don't need it until they reach five. Qualifying sole proprietors and partners may be able to register for an exemption instead. We'll help you figure out which applies and avoid misclassified payroll that shows up at audit.
Certificates of insurance, fast
Missing or outdated certificates can keep you off a job site. We issue certificates and additional insured endorsements quickly so you can start on time.
More industries we insure
See our business insurance by industry page for restaurants, retail, salons, auto repair and more.
Why Knoxville clients choose Elite Insurance Group
- Independent: we compare carriers like Travelers, Progressive, Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, Erie, Encova, Penn National and Foremost instead of selling one company's policy.
- Claims experience: our team brings 25+ years of insurance and claims experience, so we write coverage with the claim in mind.
- No agency or broker fees: you pay the carrier's premium, nothing extra to us.
- Local: a family-owned Knoxville agency serving Knox, Blount, Anderson, Loudon, Sevier and Roane counties.
Frequently asked questions
How much does contractor insurance cost in Tennessee?
Cost depends mainly on your trade, payroll, revenue, claims history and the limits your contracts require. Roofing and excavation cost more than painting, for example. We compare several carriers to find the best value for your trade.
Do subcontractors need their own insurance?
Usually yes. General contractors typically require subs to carry their own general liability and workers' comp and to name the GC as an additional insured. Uninsured subs can end up on your workers' comp audit.
What is completed operations coverage?
It covers injury or property damage that happens after your work is finished, such as a leak or failure that shows up months later. Make sure your general liability policy includes it.
Get a quote
Tell us what you need and a licensed local agent will follow up. Start your contractor insurance quote or call (865) 687-5140, Monday to Friday, 9 to 5.