Handyman insurance clients ask to see.
General liability, tools, auto and workers' comp for handymen and home repair businesses, with certificates of insurance for homeowners and property managers.
By Sam Alishahi · CA Insurance License #4348151 · Reviewed October 2026 · En español · How this page is researched
Small jobs, real liability
A handyman can damage a client's home or injure someone on a small job just as easily as a large one. Property managers and many homeowners ask for proof of liability insurance before work starts.
In California, jobs where labor and materials total $1,000 or more generally require a CSLB contractor license. I'll help you set up coverage for the work you do and point you to licensing when your jobs grow.
- General liabilityDamage to clients' property and injuries caused by your work.
- Tools and equipmentTheft or damage to tools on the job or in your truck.
- Commercial autoThe truck or van you use for work.
- Workers' compRequired in California once you have employees.
What underwriters will ask
Having these ready means I can go to market on the first call. The quote form asks for the same things, and anything you don’t know yet can wait.
- Work: the types of jobs you do.
- Revenue: annual revenue estimate.
- Help: employees or subcontractors, and payroll.
- Tools: estimated value.
- Vehicle: year, make and how it's owned.
- License: CSLB number, if you have one.
Handyman insurance, answered
Do handymen need insurance in California?
Liability insurance isn't required by the state for unlicensed minor work, but many clients and property managers require proof of it, and it protects you from paying damage claims yourself.
When does a handyman need a contractor license in California?
Generally when a job's labor and materials total $1,000 or more, a CSLB contractor license is required. Check the CSLB's current rules for your work.
Does general liability cover my tools?
No. Tools and equipment are covered under a separate inland marine or tools policy.
Do I need workers' comp if I hire a helper?
Yes. California requires workers' compensation for employees, even one.
Do you offer handyman insurance outside California?
Yes. Clients across the country send the same quote form. California policies are placed directly; outside California the request is handled together with a partner agency in your state, and the shopping across carriers works the same way. Rules, minimums and markets differ by state — see insurance requirements by state.
Tell me the jobs you do. I'll shop it.
Your job types and revenue are enough to start.
Alishahi Insurance · Saman Alishahi, independent insurance broker, California License #4348151. General information, not a quote or a promise of coverage; coverage depends on underwriting and the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy actually issued.
A short video from Sam
Under a minute each. Videos use an AI-generated version of Sam’s likeness and voice. General information only; coverage depends on your policy.
Tell me how to reach you. I’ll take it from there.
Takes about 30 seconds. I review every request personally and call you back, usually the same day.
(424) 552-4545Answered 24/7 · CA License #4348151
Get a reminder before your renewal.
Tell me when your policy renews and I’ll email you about six weeks before, when it’s worth comparing. One email, no calls.