Plumber Contractor Insurance
California — C-36 Specialists
C-36 plumbers need the $25,000 license bond now, workers' comp as soon as they have employees, and workers' comp on every active license from January 1, 2028. General liability isn't required by CSLB (except for LLCs), but most plumbers and property owners require it. Water damage claims are the most common plumber GL claim — make sure you are covered. COI processing available.
SB 216 Alert: Starting January 1, 2028 (SB 216, as delayed by SB 1455), every active California contractor license must carry workers' comp, except joint ventures with no employees. Until then, C-8, C-20, C-22, C-39 and C-61/D-49 licenses must already carry it, and every other license needs it as soon as it has an employee. No-employee Workers’ Compensation eligibility depends on business structure, classification, and underwriting. Learn more →
Coverage Every C-36 Plumbers Needs
California requires three coverages to maintain your C-36 license. We bundle them for coverage fit.
General Liability
REQUIREDCovers third-party bodily injury and property damage. Required by CSLB for C-36 license. Water damage claims are the most common plumber GL claim.
Workers Compensation
REQUIREDReview Workers’ Compensation when employees are present; Class code 5183 (plumbing). Covers workplace injuries from pipe work, confined spaces, and chemical exposure.
Commercial Auto
Covers service vans, trucks, and tools in transit. Personal auto policies exclude business use.
Contractor License Bond
REQUIRED$25,000 CSLB bond required for all C-36 license holders. Protects consumers.
Tools & Equipment
Covers pipe tools, drain cameras, and equipment in transit or at job sites.
Top Carriers for Plumbers
| Carrier | AM Best | Best For | Typical GL Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Markel Insurance | A | Plumbing contractors, specialty | $700–$2,500 |
| Employers Holdings | A | Small plumbing crews | $600–$2,000 |
| Berkshire Hathaway GUARD | A++ | Established plumbers, bundled | $800–$2,500 |
| Nationwide | A+ | Mid-size plumbing contractors | $900–$2,800 |
| Travelers | A++ | Commercial plumbing work | $1,000–$3,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Your C-36 Plumbers Insurance Quote Today
COI processing. carrier availability varies. Serving all of California.
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