Multi-Trade or Subcontracted Work: How Is That Handled?
Many contractors do more than one type of work, hire subcontractors, or work as subcontractors themselves. Here's how each of these is handled when you get a quote with Worksured.
If you work in more than one trade
When you start a quote, you'll choose one primary trade. This should be the trade that makes up most of your work or revenue. You'll then be asked about any other services you offer, so your quote reflects everything you do.
A few things to keep in mind:
Some trades include specific questions about other work. For example, if you choose Handyman / Property Maintenance, we'll ask whether roofing or plumbing done by your own workers makes up more than 25% of your revenue.
Some trades exclude certain work. Trade names like "Plumbing (No Sprinkler Work or Gas Fitting)" or "Painting & Decorating (No Spray Painting)" show what isn't part of that category. If you do excluded work, contact us before completing your quote.
Some work has its own trade category. For example, Snow & Ice Management is listed separately from Landscaping & Grounds. If you do both, tell us about both.
If you're not sure which trade to choose as your primary, our team can help before you finish your quote.
If you hire subcontractors
We'll ask whether you hire subcontractors and what kind of work they do for you. Have this information ready:
How many subcontractors you typically hire
Which trades or services you subcontract
What portion of your work is subcontracted
Your own workers vs. subcontractors
For some trades, it matters whether work is done by your own forces (you and your employees) or by subcontractors. For example, general contractors are asked whether plumbing, hot roofing, or sprinkler work is done by their own workers rather than subcontracted. Answering accurately makes sure your quote reflects who is actually doing the work.
If you work as a subcontractor
If you're hired by a general contractor or another business, they may ask you for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before you start work. They may also ask to be added as an additional insured on your policy. You can request both through your Worksured account.
If your work changes
If you start offering a new service, stop offering one, or change how much work you subcontract, update your policy information so your coverage stays accurate.
Need help?
For questions about how multi-trade or subcontracted work affects your coverage, speak with one of our licensed brokers.