Commercial Auto Insurance
Tailored Coverage for Trades & Crews in Tennessee
From job sites in Chattanooga to renovation projects in Cleveland and Dalton, contractors face risks that demand more than basic coverage. Whether you're managing a crew, hauling materials, or overseeing subcontractors, Patriot Insurance Solutions helps Tennessee contractors secure the right insurance policies to protect their business, reputation, and bottom line. We specialize in contractor insurance designed around your real-world exposures—covering tools, liability, job delays, and more—so you can stay focused on the work, not the risk.
What Contractor Insurance Covers — And Why It Matters
General Liability for Job Site Injuries and Property Damage
This core coverage protects you when a third party is injured or property is damaged due to your work. Whether a client trips over equipment or a subcontractor accidentally damages flooring during a remodel, general liability helps cover medical bills, repairs, and legal defense costs. It’s required on most job bids and construction contracts in Tennessee.
Commercial Auto for Work Trucks and Fleet Vehicles
If you or your crew use a van, pickup truck, trailer, or flatbed for work, you need a commercial auto policy—not a personal one. From hauling materials to traveling between job sites, Patriot helps you find commercial auto insurance that covers accidents, vehicle damage, and liability claims on and off the road.
Contractor’s Tools & Equipment Coverage
Your tools are essential—and expensive. If they’re stolen, lost, or damaged at a site or in transit, tools and equipment coverage steps in. We help Chattanooga-area tradespeople insure everything from hand tools to generators and specialty equipment.
Workers’ Compensation for Crew and Subcontractors
Injuries on the job can put a worker—and your business—at serious financial risk. Workers’ comp is required in Tennessee if you have five or more employees, but many contractors choose it even with fewer. It covers medical care, lost wages, and protects you from employee lawsuits after a workplace injury.
Surety Bonds for Licensing and Contracts
Need a contractor license bond, bid bond, or performance bond? Patriot provides bonding services that meet state, municipal, and client requirements across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. We help ensure you’re fully compliant for every bid and project.
Commercial Umbrella Insurance for Added Protection
Lawsuits and claims can exceed your primary policy limits—especially in high-risk jobs. A commercial umbrella policy extends your liability protection across general liability, auto, and more, providing an extra layer of security for your business and assets.
Why Contractors in Chattanooga and Beyond Choose Us
Whether you’re an independent plumber, an HVAC subcontractor, or a general contractor overseeing multiple crews, you need a partner who understands local risks and regulations. At Patriot Insurance Solutions, we work with electricians in Hixson, remodelers in Red Bank, and builders across Bradley County to design policies that meet the demands of your trade and the expectations of your clients. Our independent agents shop top-rated carriers to match you with affordable coverage options that meet licensing and contract requirements while protecting your livelihood.
Common Questions About Contractor Insurance in Tennessee
What type of insurance is required to work as a contractor in Tennessee?
Most contractors in Tennessee are required to carry general liability insurance to secure licenses, permits, or jobs—especially for residential and commercial projects. If you have five or more employees (including subcontractors in some cases), workers’ compensation is also required by law. Additionally, if you use vehicles for work, you’ll need commercial auto insurance. Our team helps contractors determine exactly what’s required based on their license type, business structure, and counties they serve.
How much does contractor insurance cost for small businesses or sole proprietors?
Contractor insurance costs vary based on your trade, location, size, payroll, and claims history. A solo handyman in Chattanooga might pay $500–$1,200 annually for general liability, while a roofing company with several employees and vehicles may pay significantly more for a full package. Patriot Insurance Solutions shops multiple carriers to find affordable contractor insurance that meets your needs and budget.
Are subcontractors covered under my contractor policy in Tennessee?
Not automatically. If you hire subcontractors, you may be required to list them as additional insureds or verify that they carry their own liability and workers’ comp coverage. If a subcontractor causes an accident and isn’t properly insured, your policy could be responsible. We’ll help you build a policy that covers your exposure and supports smart subcontractor agreements.
What happens if my tools are stolen from a job site or truck?
Standard commercial property or liability insurance usually doesn’t cover tools in transit or on-site. Contractor’s tools and equipment coverage can reimburse you for stolen or damaged gear—whether it's from a break-in on Broad Street or a job site in East Ridge. We’ll help you inventory your tools and secure portable coverage that moves with your crew.
Can I bundle contractor insurance with other business policies?
Yes. Many contractors benefit from bundling general liability, commercial property, and other coverages into a Business Owners Policy (BOP), which can reduce costs and simplify renewals. You can also add umbrella insurance, cyber coverage, or commercial auto to build a complete package. We tailor each policy bundle to fit your operations—whether you’re based in Chattanooga, Dalton, Cleveland, or the surrounding region.