Sample Requirements

Insurance & Workers Comp Guide

This is a sample template — actual requirements vary by state law, project type, and the developer's risk policy. Customize when you post a project or apply.

Case-by-case requirements

Workers compensation laws differ by state. COI coverage limits, endorsements, and additional insured requirements are set per project by the developer or public agency. Always confirm the project's specific insurance requirements before bidding.

Sample COI Coverage Limits

Typical affordable housing / government project minimums

Coverage TypeTypical MinimumHigh-Value / HUD Project
General Liability per occurrence$1,000,000$2,000,000
General Liability aggregate$2,000,000$5,000,000
Automobile liability (if applicable)$1,000,000$1,000,000
Umbrella / Excess liability$1,000,000$5,000,000
Additional insured endorsementRequiredRequired
Waiver of subrogationOften requiredRequired

Workers Compensation by State

State-specific rules for construction subcontractors

CaliforniaRequired

Required for all employers, even with 1 employee

Exemption certificates rarely accepted on public projects

TexasCase-by-case

Not required by state law, but virtually every GC/Developer requires it

Opt-out allowed but uncommon in practice

FloridaRequired

Required for construction with 1+ employees

Sole proprietors may exempt but developers usually reject

New YorkRequired

Required for all employers

Strict enforcement; fines for non-compliance

IllinoisRequired

Required for construction with 1+ employees

Independent contractor misclassification is heavily audited

GeorgiaRequired

Required for 3+ employees, but GCs usually demand it anyway

Many affordable housing developers require it regardless of size

This is not legal advice. For full state-by-state requirements, consult your insurance broker or state workers compensation board.

Common Additional Endorsements

What developers often require beyond base coverage

  • Primary & Non-Contributory wording on GL and Auto policies
  • 30-day notice of cancellation / non-renewal to certificate holder
  • Per Project Aggregate endorsement (if annual aggregate is used)
  • Subcontractor coverage endorsement (if hiring lower-tier subs)
  • Builder's Risk / Installation Floater (for self-performed work)

Project Posting Checklist (for Developers)

When you post a project on BuildersPass, use this checklist to communicate insurance requirements clearly to bidders.

For Subcontractors: Have These Ready

Current Certificate of Insurance (COI) PDF — within 30 days of expiration
Workers Compensation certificate or state exemption letter
Additional insured endorsements (if you have them)
Waiver of subrogation endorsement (if you have it)
Auto liability COI (if you use company vehicles on site)
Umbrella / excess liability COI (if applicable)

Upload these during your BuildersPass application so developers can review them before requesting an introduction.