Painter insurance
Subcontracted painters and certificates
Many painting contractors use other painters during busy seasons. How those subs are insured affects your premium and your exposure.
Collect before they start
- Current certificates for liability and workers' comp
- Additional insured endorsements naming your business
- A written subcontract with insurance requirements
At audit
Liability and comp policies are usually audited after the term. Payments to subs without proof of insurance may be treated as your payroll.
Frequently asked questions
What is a certificate of insurance?
A document summarizing a policy. It does not change coverage.
Why did my premium go up at audit?
Uninsured subcontractors are often added to your payroll for premium purposes.
Should subs name me as additional insured?
Many contractors require it.
More coverage and guides
- General liability for painters
- Overspray and property damage
- Lead-safe work and pollution coverage
- Ladders, scaffolds, and workers' comp
- Tools and equipment coverage
- Commercial auto for painting vans
- Painting job types and insurance
- Subcontracted painters and certificates
- Insurance clauses in painting contracts
- What affects painter insurance cost
- Painter application checklist
Last updated October 15, 2026 · How we research