General liability for contractors in California
Contractors · California, California · CA License #0C64540
Bottom line up front
California contractors typically need $1M/$2M general liability aligned to CSLB class codes, with additional-insured endorsements for GCs. Average small-trade premiums often land between $650 and $1,400 per year before surplus loads — quotes are underwriting-subject, not binders.
Typical premium band
$650–$1,400 / year for $1M/$2M GL (class-dependent)
Ranges are educational estimates for California — not a quote. Carrier appetite, limits, deductibles, and loss history move the number.
Localized exclusions & gaps to watch
- Work above three stories without height endorsement
- New residential tract construction for many surplus markets
- Pollution / mold unless specifically endorsed
California regulations & local requirements
- CSLB license must match the operations described to carriers
- Additional insured & primary/non-contributory often required on CA jobs
- Workers’ compensation is separate from GL for employees
Frequently asked questions
CSLB does not replace insurance: most GCs, municipalities, and landlords contractually require GL with AI endorsements. Limits and wording are set by the contract, not a single statewide minimum for all trades.
