Tampa contractors insurance from a Florida-rooted agency

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does Florida really require workers' comp for a one-person contracting operation in Tampa?
  Yes. Florida requires workers' compensation coverage for construction businesses at a single employee, which includes the owner unless a valid corporate officer exemption is filed with the state. Hillsborough County contractors working under GC or government contracts are routinely asked to provide proof of coverage before they can mobilize. An exemption may be available for certain business structures, but it does not automatically satisfy every contract requirement, so it is worth reviewing both the legal threshold and what your specific project contracts require.
• What general liability limits do Tampa-area general contractors typically require from subs?
  Most general contractors working on commercial projects in Westshore, Downtown Tampa, or larger Brandon-area developments specify a minimum of one million dollars per occurrence and two million dollars aggregate, and many GMP contracts push those floors higher. Some project owners also require completed operations coverage to remain in place for a set period after the job closes. Because requirements vary by contract and project type, Ellie reviews the actual certificate requirements before recommending limits rather than defaulting to a one-size number.
• How does Tampa's hurricane risk affect equipment and tools coverage for contractors?
  Contractors' equipment policies written in Hillsborough County are underwritten with Florida's wind exposure in mind. Carriers may apply named-storm sublimits or require that certain equipment be moved or secured when a hurricane watch is issued. For larger equipment inventories on open jobsites in Brandon, Riverview, or Plant City, placement in admitted markets can be competitive, but specialty inland marine markets are sometimes necessary depending on the schedule value and equipment type. Ellie shops both market segments to find the right fit.
• What insurance do contractors need in Tampa?
  General contractors, subcontractors, and specialty trades — roofing, framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, concrete, and more. A typical Tampa program combines several of these coverages based on the operation, contracts, and exposures.
• How much does contractor insurance cost in Tampa?
  Cost depends on the size of the operation, payroll or revenue, vehicles, prior claims, and Florida-specific factors. Florida requires workers' comp for construction at a single employee, and GCs must verify every sub's coverage before work begins or absorb the exposure on their own policy. An Instant Quote across 100+ markets is the most accurate way to know.
• What's different about insuring contractors in Florida?
  Florida requires workers' comp for construction at a single employee, and GCs must verify every sub's coverage before work begins or absorb the exposure on their own policy.
• Can Ellie Insurance Group shop contractor insurance for my Tampa operation?
  Yes. As an independent agency we shop 100+ carrier markets for contractor insurance, including specialty markets for harder-to-place contractors. Tampa is part of our core Florida service area.