Fence work starts with digging, and digging is where the claims start. Hitting a buried line, crushing a sprinkler system with a skid steer, or leaving a post hole open on a client's lawn are common sources of fence contractor liability claims.
Fence companies also haul heavy panels and run augers and post drivers, which means injury risk for crews and real money tied up in equipment. Most fence contractors carry all four of the main coverages.
What insurance do fence contractors need?
Here is how each type of fencing insurance fits a typical fencing business, from what clients and states usually require to what depends on how you work.
General liability
Usually requiredBuried lines, sprinklers, and post holes. Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to other people.
About $115 a month for fence contractorsWorkers comp
Usually requiredLifting and auger injuries. Pays medical bills and lost wages when an employee gets hurt on the job.
About $219 a month for fence contractorsCommercial auto
Usually requiredTrucks and trailers hauling panels. Covers trucks and vans you use for work, and the damage they cause.
Tools & equipment
Usually requiredAugers, skid steers, and post drivers. Replaces tools and gear that get stolen, lost, or damaged.
License & surety bonds
Depends on your setupWhere your state requires a contractor license. A guarantee to your customer or the state that you will follow the rules and finish the work.
Business owners policy
Depends on your setupIf you keep a yard or stock. General liability and business property bundled together, usually for less.
About $256 a month for fence contractorsHow much does fencing insurance cost?
The typical fencing business pays about $115 a month, or $1,382 a year, for general liability, based on published customer data. Your price moves with your services, revenue, crew size, claims history, state, and the limits you choose.
| Policy | Typical monthly | Typical yearly |
|---|---|---|
| General liability | $115 | $1,382 |
| Business owners policy | $256 | $3,072 |
| Workers compensation | $219 | $2,628 |
Source: The Hartford fencing insurance (customer averages). Yearly figures without a published annual number are the monthly figure times twelve. These are typical figures, not quotes.
Want a number for your setup? Try the contractor insurance cost calculator, or see ways to get cheap contractor insurance.
Common fencing insurance claims
- Underground damageAugers and post drivers can hit utility lines, irrigation, and sprinklers. Always call 811 before you dig.
- Open post holesA visitor stepping in an open hole is a common injury claim.
- Equipment damage and theftAugers, skid steers, and materials need tools and equipment cover.
- Lifting injuriesUnloading panels and posts leads to back injuries that workers comp covers for employees.
Fencing license and bond requirements
Fence installation falls under contractor licensing in some states above a job value, and many cities require permits and set height and setback rules. Federal law requires a call to 811 before digging.
Confirm before you rely on this. Licensing and insurance rules change, and cities can add their own. Check with your state licensing board and a licensed agent before you bid.