On this page
- GL covers third-party bodily injury and property damage from your operations.
- It does not cover your employees (workers' comp) or your vehicles (commercial auto).
- Washington: $200,000 + $50,000 or $250,000 CSL to register; Oregon: $100,000–$500,000 per occurrence by endorsement.
What it typically covers
- Injury to a client or member of the public caused by your work
- Damage to a client's property caused by your work
- Legal defense for covered claims
What it doesn't cover
- Your own employees' injuries → workers' comp
- Your vehicles → commercial auto
- Licensing-law claims by consumers → your license bond
Check the license behind the policy
Insurers and clients look at your license status first. See what the state shows for you — free.
Where the state sets a minimum
| Washington requirement | Amount | Source |
|---|---|---|
| General contractor bond | $30,000 | RCW 18.27.040 (since July 1, 2024) |
| Specialty contractor bond | $15,000 | RCW 18.27.040 |
| General liability | $200,000 public liability + $50,000 property damage, or $250,000 combined single limit | WA L&I |
| Certificate holder | L&I must be listed | WA L&I |
| Oregon residential endorsement | Liability insurance (per occurrence) |
|---|---|
| Residential general contractor | $500,000 |
| Residential specialty contractor | $300,000 |
| Residential limited contractor | $100,000 |
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Proving coverage: the COI
A certificate of insurance summarizes your limits and dates. Washington requires L&I to be the certificate holder for registration.
- Insured name matches your license
- Limits meet the client / state requirement
- Policy dates cover the whole job
- Certificate holder or additional insured listed
FAQ
Is general liability insurance required for contractors?
It depends on the state. Washington and Oregon set minimums as a condition of registration/licensing; many states do not, but clients and GCs commonly require a COI.
Does general liability cover my employees?
No. Employee injuries are covered by workers' compensation.
Is a license bond the same as insurance?
No. A bond protects consumers and the state; the contractor must repay the surety for claims paid.
Still unsure?
Answer 3 quick questions and we'll point you to the right official rules.