For masonry contractors and business owners, comprehensive insurance coverage is crucial to protect against the unique risks associated with structural construction work. The specialized nature of masonry work—from building load-bearing walls to installing decorative brick facades and constructing foundations—presents distinct challenges and potential liabilities. Construction errors can lead to structural failures, property damage, or safety issues that may not become apparent for years after project completion.
This comprehensive guide explores essential insurance for masonry contractors, expected costs, and strategies for reducing insurance expenses. Our analysis draws from over 200 insurance quotes for masonry professionals across the US.
What Insurance Do Masonry Contractors Need?
Sole Proprietor Masonry Contractors:
- General liability insurance is fundamental, protecting against damage claims and injuries
- Tools & Equipment / Inland Marine coverage for scaffolding, mixers, and specialized equipment
- Commercial auto insurance for vehicles transporting materials and equipment
- Builder’s risk insurance for protecting ongoing construction projects
Small Masonry Business (2-3 Employees):
- Workers’ compensation insurance becomes mandatory with employees
- Umbrella insurance for additional liability protection on large projects
- Bond coverage for commercial and government projects
- Property insurance if maintaining a yard or storage facility
Established Masonry Business (5+ Employees):
- Enhanced commercial property insurance for equipment yards and warehouses
- Employment practices liability insurance
- Cyber liability insurance for businesses handling digital payments and customer data
- Professional liability insurance for design consultation services
General Liability Insurance for Masonry Contractors
The comprehensive nature of general liability insurance provides essential protection against a wide range of potential claims. When structural issues arise from improper construction or when neighboring properties are damaged during work, this coverage becomes invaluable. Legal defense costs alone can be substantial, making the policy limits a critical consideration for any masonry contractor.
General Liability Premium Benchmarks
Standard coverage includes $1M per occurrence and $2M aggregate limits.
Average Premiums by State and Revenue:
| State | $50K Revenue | $150K Revenue | $500K Revenue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $1,090 | $2,710 | $8,050 |
| California | $1,420 | $3,330 | $8,890 |
| Florida | $1,330 | $3,180 | $8,870 |
| Illinois | $2,400 | $5,170 | $13,390 |
| Massachusetts | $1,570 | $3,270 | $8,510 |
| Michigan | $1,240 | $2,800 | $7,380 |
| North Carolina | $1,010 | $1,970 | $5,000 |
| Pennsylvania | $1,620 | $3,140 | $9,060 |
| Texas | $1,840 | $4,060 | $10,110 |
| Virginia | $980 | $1,840 | $4,570 |
| Washington | $1,260 | $3,320 | $9,520 |
Lowest Available Premiums by State and Revenue:
| State | $50K Revenue | $150K Revenue | $500K Revenue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $500 | $1,690 | $4,750 |
| California | $980 | $1,940 | $4,480 |
| Florida | $780 | $1,970 | $5,830 |
| Illinois | $1,420 | $3,390 | $8,620 |
| Massachusetts | $790 | $1,750 | $5,420 |
| Michigan | $500 | $1,570 | $5,000 |
| North Carolina | $500 | $950 | $2,430 |
| Pennsylvania | $500 | $1,620 | $5,720 |
| Texas | $590 | $1,770 | $5,340 |
| Virginia | $530 | $950 | $2,570 |
| Washington | $600 | $2,320 | $8,030 |
Here you can get more detail about each individual state:
Masonry Liability Insurance Cost and Savings
Our analysis of premium variations reveals significant opportunities for cost savings across different regions and business sizes:
1) Maximum Potential Savings by Revenue Level:
- Small Operations ($50K Revenue): Up to 69% savings in states like Pennsylvania
- Mid-Size Operations ($150K Revenue): Up to 52% savings in North Carolina and Virginia
- Large Operations ($500K Revenue): Up to 51% savings in California
2) Regional Cost Variations:
- Illinois maintains the highest premiums even at best available rates
- North Carolina and Virginia consistently offer the most competitive rates
- Coastal states show significant premium variability, with potential savings of 35-50%
3) Revenue Impact on Savings:
- Smaller operations ($50K revenue) often see the largest percentage savings opportunities
- Mid-size operations show consistent 40-45% savings potential across most states
- Larger operations ($500K revenue) maintain significant savings potential despite higher base rates
Classification Code 97447 – Masonry Operations
Understanding proper insurance classification is crucial for masonry contractors, as it directly impacts coverage and premiums. Classification code 97447 specifically defines which operations are covered under standard masonry contractor policies and, importantly, which operations require additional or separate coverage.
Included Operations
The classification code specifically includes:
- Standard masonry work
- Cutting and laying of bricks, block, stone and other unit masonry or clay products
- Mortar work and associated finishing
- Exterior work up to 3 stories in height
- Perimeter wall construction
- Retaining walls up to 6 feet in height
- Work on slopes up to 20 degrees
- Work up to 12 feet below grade level
Excluded Operations
Contractors must be aware that this classification explicitly excludes:
- Construction or repair of street, road, highway walls, and sound walls
- Dam or levee work
- Cast-in-place concrete work
- Fireplace or chimney work (except outdoor fireplaces and chimneys not connected to habitational structures)
- Swimming pool, spa, and pond construction (Koi ponds permitted)
- Waterproofing of foundations or building walls
- Foundation work of any kind
- Equipment rental to others
- Road, highway, bridge, or overpass work
- Any underground operations without proper utility location verification
Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Masonry Contractors
Workers’ compensation insurance is essential for masonry contractors due to the physically demanding and hazardous nature of their work. With premium rates typically ranging from $4.50 to $9.00 per $100 of payroll (higher than tile/stone contractors due to increased risk), this coverage protects both employers and workers from the financial impact of workplace injuries and illnesses. The rate variation depends on factors such as company safety records, implemented safety protocols, and geographic location.
Common workplace risks and injuries include:
- Back injuries from repeatedly lifting and carrying heavy materials like concrete blocks and bricks
- Falls from scaffolding and elevated work platforms
- Crushing injuries from falling materials and equipment
- Respiratory issues from prolonged exposure to concrete dust, mortar, and other airborne particles
- Chemical exposure risks from working with cement, mortar, and other construction materials
- Impact injuries from tools and equipment
- Muscle strains and repetitive stress injuries from continuous physical labor
- Eye injuries from debris and dust
Contractors can often secure better premium rates by:
- Implementing comprehensive safety training programs
- Maintaining proper scaffolding and fall protection systems
- Documenting all safety procedures and incidents
- Ensuring regular equipment maintenance
- Providing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Conducting regular safety audits
- Implementing proper lifting techniques and equipment
Commercial Auto Insurance for Masonry Contractors
Commercial auto insurance represents a critical component of a masonry contractor’s insurance portfolio. This coverage extends beyond simple vehicle protection, encompassing the transportation of heavy materials and specialized equipment. With standard policy limits of $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident, and $100,000 for property damage, contractors must carefully evaluate whether these limits adequately protect their business operations. Annual premiums typically fall between $1,800 and $4,200 per vehicle (higher than tile/stone contractors due to heavier loads), with rates varying based on:
- Vehicle type and weight capacity
- Usage patterns and radius of operation
- Driver history and training
- Claims history
- Material transport frequency
- Equipment hauling needs
Tools & Equipment Insurance (Inland Marine) for Masonry Contractors
Essential coverage for specialized equipment including:
- Scaffolding systems and platforms
- Mortar mixers and pumps
- Power tools and cutting equipment
- Material handling equipment
- Compactors and concrete tools
- Safety equipment
- Specialty masonry tools
Premium Range: $800 to $3,000 annually (higher than tile/stone due to more expensive equipment)
Factors affecting premiums:
- Total equipment value
- Usage patterns and job site conditions
- Storage security measures
- Claims history
- Equipment age and condition
- Security systems and tracking devices
- Operating radius
Builder’s Risk Insurance
This specialized coverage provides crucial protection during the construction process, particularly important for masonry contractors working on structural elements. The coverage extends to:
- Materials during transit
- Storage at job sites
- Throughout the construction process
- Partially completed structures
- Temporary structures and forms
Annual premiums range from $1,000 to $4,500, varying based on:
- Project values and types
- Construction methods
- Geographic location
- Project duration
- Security measures
- Site conditions
- Claims history
Bonds for Masonry Contractors
Bond premiums vary by amount and credit score, with typical ranges:
- $5,000: $125–$500
- $10,000: $175–$1,200
- $15,000: $200–$1,600
- $20,000: $250–$2,200
- $25,000: $275–$2,700
- Higher amounts available for larger commercial projects
Factors affecting bond costs:
- Credit score and financial history
- Years in business
- Project complexity
- Previous bond claims
- Financial statement strength
- License status and compliance history
Risk Management Tips for Lower Premiums
1) Safety and Training:
- Implement comprehensive safety training programs
- Maintain detailed project documentation
- Use written contracts with specific terms
- Regular equipment maintenance and inspection
2) Quality Control:
- Proper material handling and storage procedures
- Employee certification and ongoing training
- Quality control measures for construction
- Regular safety meetings
3) Documentation and Procedures:
- Maintain clear records of work heights and depths
- Document all underground utility verifications
- Keep detailed incident and near-miss reports
- Regular safety audits and updates
4) Insurance Program Management:
- Bundle multiple policies when possible
- Maintain continuous coverage without lapses
- Consider higher deductibles for premium reductions
- Work with insurers specializing in masonry contractors
Get Masonry Insurance Quotes from ContractorNerd
Finding comprehensive insurance coverage at competitive rates can be challenging for masonry contractors. At ContractorNerd, we specialize in helping contractors navigate the complex insurance landscape. Our expertise in the masonry industry allows us to connect you with insurers who understand your specialized risks, find competitive rates, and ensure appropriate coverage for your business size. Our analysis of over 200 insurance quotes for masonry professionals gives us unique insight into the market, helping you avoid overpaying while maintaining robust coverage.
Don’t let insurance complexity hold your business back. Let ContractorNerd help you secure the coverage you need at rates you can afford.