When you’re running a contracting business in New Hampshire, having the right insurance coverage can be an important part of protecting your livelihood. Whether you specialize in electrical work, carpentry, plumbing, or general construction, contractors face daily risks—from job site accidents and equipment damage to liability claims and unexpected delays.

At Cunningham Associates Insurance, we help New Hampshire contractors find insurance solutions designed to fit their unique operations. Below, we explore key types of coverage that contractors often consider, why they matter, and how they can help safeguard your business.

What Is Contractors Insurance?

Contractors insurance is a general term for a collection of policies that can help protect businesses working in the trades. Rather than one single policy, contractors insurance typically refers to a combination of coverages tailored to address risks common in the construction and service industries.

In New Hampshire, this might include protection for tools and equipment, liability concerns, workers on-site, and company vehicles. The right mix of coverages can help reduce financial risk if something unexpected happens, such as property damage or an injury during a project.

Why Might General Liability Insurance Be Important for Contractors?

General liability insurance is often one of the most common coverages contractors consider. It can help protect your business if it is held responsible for third-party bodily injury or property damage.

For example, if a client trips over your equipment and is injured, or if you accidentally damage a homeowner’s property while completing a project, general liability insurance may help cover related expenses. Some project owners, landlords, or municipalities in New Hampshire may even require proof of general liability coverage before allowing contractors to start work.

How Can Workers’ Compensation Insurance Help Protect Employees?

If your business has employees, New Hampshire law generally requires you to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This type of policy can help cover medical expenses and lost wages if an employee gets injured or becomes ill while on the job.

From lifting heavy materials to using power tools, contracting work involves physical labor that can sometimes result in injury. Workers’ compensation insurance may help both you and your team by providing support after a covered workplace incident. Even if you operate as an independent contractor, having this protection can demonstrate professionalism and preparedness when bidding on larger jobs.

What Does Commercial Auto Insurance Cover?

If your contracting business uses vehicles for transporting tools, materials, or workers to job sites, a commercial auto insurance policy might be an important part of your coverage plan. Personal auto insurance typically doesn’t cover accidents that occur while driving for business purposes.

Commercial auto insurance can help cover costs related to accidents, vehicle damage, or injuries involving business vehicles. Whether you operate one truck or a small fleet, this coverage can help keep your operations moving smoothly across New Hampshire’s cities, towns, and rural areas.

Why Should Contractors Consider Tools and Equipment Coverage?

Your tools and equipment are the backbone of your business. If they’re stolen, damaged, or lost, it can disrupt your workflow and affect your bottom line. Tools and equipment coverage can help replace or repair these items if a covered event occurs.

For contractors in New Hampshire who frequently travel between job sites, this coverage can be particularly valuable. Some policies can even extend protection to rented or borrowed equipment, depending on the terms of coverage.

What Is Inland Marine Insurance, and Why Might It Matter?

While the name can be confusing, inland marine insurance doesn’t have anything to do with the ocean. It’s designed to cover goods, equipment, and tools that are transported over land or stored off-site.

For example, if your tools are damaged while being transported to a job or stored temporarily at a construction site, inland marine coverage may help cover the loss. This can be an important consideration for New Hampshire contractors who frequently move materials between multiple locations.

How Can a Contractor’s Bond Support Business Credibility?

Contractor’s bonds, often referred to as surety bonds, are not insurance policies but can work alongside your insurance plan. They are agreements that guarantee your business will fulfill its contractual obligations. If a project isn’t completed as promised, the bond may provide compensation to the client.

In New Hampshire, certain types of contractors may be required to carry bonds for licensing or permitting purposes. Even when not required, being bonded can help build trust with clients and provide a competitive advantage when bidding for new contracts.

What Role Does Professional Liability Insurance Play?

While general liability insurance focuses on physical damages, professional liability insurance (sometimes called errors and omissions insurance) can help protect against claims of negligence, mistakes, or failure to deliver services as promised.

For contractors who provide design, consultation, or project management services in New Hampshire, this type of coverage can be an important safeguard. It may help cover legal costs and settlements if a client alleges that your advice or professional services caused them a financial loss.

Should Contractors Consider a Business Owners Policy (BOP)?

A Business Owners Policy, or BOP, combines several common coverages—typically general liability, property, and business interruption insurance—into one package. This type of policy is often designed for small to mid-sized businesses and can be customized to include additional coverages relevant to contracting operations.

For New Hampshire contractors who own an office, workshop, or storage facility, a BOP may help protect the building and its contents while simplifying overall policy management.

Why Is It Helpful to Work With a Local New Hampshire Insurance Agency?

Choosing the right insurance for your contracting business can feel overwhelming, but working with a local agency can make the process easier. At Cunningham Associates Insurance, we understand the unique risks contractors face in New Hampshire—from seasonal weather challenges to state-specific regulations.

Our team takes the time to learn about your business operations, project types, and goals. We then help identify insurance solutions that align with your needs and budget. Whether you’re an independent tradesperson or managing a growing construction firm, we can guide you toward a plan that helps protect your investment and supports your long-term success.

How Can Contractors Get Started?

Getting started is simple. Review your current insurance coverage, assess potential gaps, and schedule a consultation with a trusted advisor. The right insurance mix can help you focus on completing quality work while knowing your business has a plan in place for unexpected situations.

If you’re a contractor in New Hampshire looking to learn more about contractors insurance, contact Cunningham Associates Insurance today. We’ll help you explore coverage options designed to protect your business, employees, and reputation—so you can keep building with confidence.