When you’re running a handyman business, every job site holds opportunity—and risk. Gild Insurance makes it easy to protect your business with handyman insurance solutions that match your real-world needs. Whether you’re fixing a leak, remodeling a room, or installing fixtures, you’re just one mistake away from an expensive claim. That’s why it’s important to understand the two core pillars of protection: general liability and professional liability insurance.
If you’ve read our blog, “One Job Away from Risk? Get Handyman Liability Insurance,” you already know that handyman work comes with its share of surprises. Let’s break down the differences between these essential coverages so you can build a stronger defense against the unexpected.
What Is Handyman Insurance?
Handyman insurance is a set of policies designed to shield you from the risks that come with residential or commercial repair work. It helps cover legal fees, medical bills, property damage, and professional mistakes that could otherwise drain your business’s finances. Instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all policy, Gild Insurance helps you customize coverage based on the types of jobs you take, the tools you use, and the clients you serve.
Two of the most critical coverages to understand are general liability and professional liability.
General Liability Insurance: The Everyday Safety Net
General liability is the foundation of a strong handyman insurance plan. It protects you when physical accidents or property damage happen during your work.
General liability coverage can help with claims like:
- A customer trips over your ladder and breaks their wrist.
- You accidentally damaged a client’s hardwood floors while moving equipment.
- A paint spill ruins an expensive carpet.
Without general liability insurance, even a minor accident could lead to thousands of dollars in medical bills or legal fees. This coverage is often required to get hired by property managers, commercial clients, and homeowners’ associations.
Tip: Many states and clients require proof of general liability insurance before allowing handymen on the job site, so staying covered isn’t just smart—it’s essential for business growth.
Professional Liability Insurance: Protecting Against Errors and Advice
Professional liability, sometimes called “errors and omissions” (E&O) insurance, protects you from claims related to the quality of your work or advice you give to clients.
You might need professional liability coverage if:
- A client says your drywall installation wasn’t up to code and demands costly repairs.
- You recommend a fix that fails, causing more damage later.
- A client sues over project delays or unsatisfactory workmanship.
Unlike general liability, which focuses on physical accidents, professional liability addresses mistakes in your craftsmanship or service. Having this protection built into your handyman insurance plan helps you safeguard your reputation and stay resilient, even if an honest mistake turns into a legal dispute.
Why Both General and Professional Liability Matter for Handymen
A complete handyman insurance package includes both types of coverage because accidents and allegations can happen on the same job.
For example: You could drop a heavy tool through a window (general liability) and later be blamed for using the wrong sealant on a project (professional liability). Without both policies, you could end up paying two different claims out of pocket—plus legal defense costs.
With Gild, it’s simple to build an insurance plan that fits the real risks you face every day on the job.
How Much Does Handyman Insurance Cost?
The cost of handyman insurance depends on several factors, including:
- The type of services you offer
- Where your business operates
- Your years of experience
- The number of employees (if any)
- Your claims history
In general, basic handyman insurance is surprisingly affordable, especially compared to the financial impact of an uncovered claim. Gild Insurance makes it easy to shop and compare quotes so you can find a policy that fits your needs—and your budget.
Explore your options in minutes—start your customized quote today.
Protect Your Business with Gild
Running a handyman business means wearing a lot of hats: project manager, technician, customer service rep—and risk manager. You shouldn’t have to navigate insurance alone. Gild Insurance helps make the process fast, clear, and tailored to your business reality.
Take the guesswork out of coverage—explore your options and see your quote in just a few clicks.