Oregon General Liability Insurance

Protect your business, stay compliant, and win more jobs with reliable and affordable coverage.

For contractors in Oregon, general liability insurance isn't just a nice-to-have—it's a legal requirement. Whether you're tackling small residential projects or managing commercial construction, this coverage safeguards your business against third-party claims for property damage, bodily injury, or legal expenses.

The Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) mandates that licensed contractors carry general liability insurance with varying coverage limits depending on the type of contractor license. They also require the CCB to be listed as a certificate holder on your policy.

General Liability Insurance Application

Why Contractor Liability Insurance in Oregon Is Essential

Many clients—whether they're homeowners, general contractors, or commercial property managers—require proof of insurance before hiring contractors. Without it, you could lose out on projects or put yourself at financial risk if something goes wrong.

Contractor liability insurance in Oregon shows that you're covered and prepared to handle unforeseen situations. With CCIS, you'll receive a Certificate of Insurance to share with clients. If you need to add someone as an "Additional Insured," we can make that happen quickly and easily—just let us know.

What Oregon Contractor General Liability Insurance Protects

Your general liability insurance for contractors in Oregon shields your business from third-party claims that arise during your operations. Here's a breakdown of common coverages:

• Bodily Injury: Covers medical expenses for injuries, illness, or even death caused by incidents on your job site.
• Property Damage: Refers to physical injury to tangible property, as well as any subsequent loss of use.
• Products and Completed Operations: Protects your work after project completion for covered claims, applicable only for work performed during the policy period.
• Medical Payments: Covers medical expenses for bodily injuries caused by accidents during the policy term.
• Personal and Advertising Injury: Injuries caused by false arrest, malicious prosecution, unlawful eviction, the use of another's concept in an advertisement, copyright infringement, or the publication of anything that slanders, libels, or violates a person's right to privacy. Not prevalent in contractor general liability cases.

While general liability coverage is comprehensive, it doesn't cover defective craftsmanship or damage to your own work. For additional protection, explore other policies designed for contractors.

Required General Liability Insurance Limits in Oregon

Your required general liability policy limits depend on the type of contractor license you hold:

• Commercial General Contractors
  Level 1: $2 million aggregate
  Level 2: $1 million aggregate
   
• Commercial Specialty Contractors
  Level 1: $1 million aggregate
  Level 2: $500,000 per occurrence
   
• Residential Contractors
  General Contractor: $500,000 per occurrence
  Specialty Contractor: $300,000 per occurrence
  Limited Contractor: $100,000 per occurrence
  Developer: $500,000 per occurrence
   
• Locksmith, Home Inspector, Home Services, and Restoration Contractors: $100,000 per occurrence

Need help determining the right coverage for your license type? CCIS will walk you through the requirements and help you become compliant quickly.

The Cost of General Liability Insurance in Oregon

The cost of your policy can vary depending on factors like your trade classification, payroll, revenue, subcontractor usage, and location. Below are examples of average annual costs for contractor general liability insurance in Oregon:

*Prices shown are for a one year term and based on several factors including, but not limited to, classification, payroll, subcontractor costs, gross receipts and location. Rates do not constitute an offer of coverage and are subject to change at any time. Rates may fall outside average ranges shown here due to exceptional risk factors.

Understanding Claims and Policy Types

There are two types of general liability policies available in Oregon:

• Occurrence-Based: These cover claims for incidents that happened during the policy period—regardless of when the claim is filed.
• Claims-Made: These only cover claims if the incident and the claim filing occur while the policy is active.

When you file a claim, your general liability insurance will cover damages or medical payments up to your policy limits, minus any deductible. The insurance company will defend you and has discretion to settle a claim if necessary.

General Liability Coverage for All Types of Oregon Contractors

No matter what type of contractor you are, having the right insurance is crucial. CCIS provides tailored general liability insurance for all licensed trades in Oregon, including:

• Painters and drywall contractors
• Concrete and masonry specialists
• Plumbers
• General Contractors (residential and commercial)
• HVAC technicians
• Carpenters and framers
• Landscapers and tree service contractors
• Electricians
• Roofers
• Remodelers and home improvement professionals

Each trade has unique risks, and CCIS is here to help you find tailored coverage that meets your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions: Oregon Contractor General Liability Insurance