Quick answer: California C-17 glazing contractors (glass, windows, storefronts, shower doors) need the $25,000 CSLB license bond and workers' comp once they hire. General contractors require general liability with additional insured status. Asena quotes general liability for glaziers through several markets — some write residential and commercial, some commercial only — plus auto, equipment and bonds.
C-17 Glazing contractors in California — CSLB numbers
CSLB lists 2,844 active licenses with the C-17 classification (CSLB license file, September 2026). The most are in Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties. Many also hold a B license (672) or a D-28 Doors, Gates and Activating Devices certification (129).
What CSLB requires
Every active license needs the $25,000 CSLB contractor license bond. LLC licenses also need a $100,000 employee/worker bond and $1M–$5M of liability insurance.
Workers' comp: required as soon as you have an employee, and for every active license from January 1, 2028 (SB 216, as delayed by SB 1455), except joint ventures with no employees.
What underwriters look at
Residential vs. commercial and storefront work
Curtain wall and high-rise work (heights)
Products and completed operations — glass breakage and water intrusion claims
Hurricane/impact or fire-rated glass
Installation of glass you also fabricate or supply
Workers' comp class codes (WCIRB, effective 9/1/2026)
Code
Description
Rate per $100
5467
Glaziers — regular hourly wage under $43
$7.514
5470
Glaziers — $43/hr or more
$3.349
Note: Advisory pure premium rates per $100 of payroll, before each carrier's own rating. Your actual premium depends on the carrier, payroll and experience.
Coverage we quote for this trade
General liability (several markets write this trade)
Commercial auto and hired/non-owned auto
CSLB license bond and contract bonds
Tools and equipment (inland marine)
Umbrella/excess
Workers' compensation: few markets write this trade — call us and we will tell you honestly what is available
What to have ready for a quote
Revenue and payroll; residential/commercial split
Maximum working height
Vehicles and racks
Current policy and losses
Get a quote
Call (858) 925-9555 or request a review online — only your name, phone and email are required; we collect project details by phone. Asena Capital Insurance Services, CA License #6008596.
Frequently asked questions
What workers' comp code do glaziers use in California?
Glaziers use dual-wage codes 5467 (regular hourly wage under $43) and 5470 ($43 or more). The 9/1/2026 advisory rates are $7.514 and $3.349 per $100 of payroll.
Do glaziers need general liability?
CSLB does not require it except for LLCs, but GCs and building owners almost always require it with additional insured and completed-operations coverage.