Quick answers
How to verify a contractor's insurance
Start with the certificate of insurance, but don’t stop there. Ask for the contractor’s insurer, policy type, and current coverage dates, then verify it with the insurance company yourself.
What to ask for first
If a contractor says they’re insured, ask for a current certificate of insurance and the name of the insurance company. You want to see the policy type, coverage dates, and the contractor’s business name matching the paperwork.
A real pro won’t act annoyed by this. They should expect it. Keystone Reno is a free matching service, not a contractor, so we don’t provide the insurance — we help you connect with remodeling contractors, and you still verify every contractor yourself.
For home remodels, the big one is general liability insurance. Depending on the job, you may also want to ask about workers’ compensation coverage, especially if there will be employees on your property.
How to verify it yourself
Don’t rely on a screenshot, a logo, or a verbal “yes, we’re covered.” Call the insurance company using the phone number on the certificate or the insurer’s public website, not a number the contractor typed into a text.
Ask the insurer to confirm the policy is active and that the business name on the policy matches the contractor you’re hiring. If the policy was canceled last week, expired, or doesn’t match the company name, that’s a problem.
If the contractor uses subcontractors, ask whether their coverage is included. Sometimes the main contractor is insured, but a subcontractor is not. The safer move is to get the insurance details in writing and keep copies with your contract and quote paperwork.
Red flags that should make you slow down
A few things should make you pause right away:
- “Trust me, I’m covered” but no proof
- A certificate with an expired date
- A business name that doesn’t match the contract
- Pressure to sign today before you check anything
- A request for full payment up front
- Cash-only deposit demands
- No written contract
Those are the kinds of warning signs that get homeowners burned. A licensed, insured contractor should be willing to document coverage and let you verify it before work starts.
Why this matters before a remodel starts
Insurance is not just paperwork. If someone gets hurt on your property or something goes wrong, you want a contractor with real coverage, not a story. That’s why homeowners should always hire licensed, insured contractors and verify the license and insurance themselves.
This is also where people can get pushed into bad decisions. A low price can disappear fast if the contractor is uninsured, underinsured, or cutting corners. If you’re comparing bids, make sure you’re comparing the same scope, materials, and coverage — not just the bottom line.
If you’re still in the planning stage, you can see common remodel costs, review more homeowner guides, or use free help to understand what to ask before you get quotes.
A simple checklist you can use today
- Ask for a current certificate of insurance.
- Check that the contractor’s business name matches the paperwork.
- Confirm the policy is active by calling the insurer directly.
- Ask whether general liability and workers’ compensation apply to your job.
- Keep copies before you sign a contract or pay a deposit.
If anything feels off, stop and get another quote. You stay in control: compare written quotes, choose who to hire, and hold the final payment until the work is done and you’re satisfied.
Ask for proof, verify it with the insurer yourself, and don’t hire anyone who won’t show current insurance in writing.
Common questions
What insurance should a remodeling contractor have?
At minimum, ask about general liability insurance; for crews with employees, workers’ compensation is also important. Coverage needs can vary by state and by project, so verify what applies to your job and confirm it yourself with the insurer.
Is a certificate of insurance enough proof?
It’s a good starting point, but it’s not enough by itself. Always verify the policy is active directly with the insurance company and make sure the business name and dates are current.
What if the contractor refuses to show insurance?
That’s a red flag. If they won’t provide proof, or they pressure you to move forward anyway, walk away and talk to other licensed, insured contractors.
Do I need to check insurance for subcontractors too?
Yes, if subcontractors will be on your property, it’s smart to ask how they’re covered. The main contractor should be able to explain who is insured and provide documentation.