TradeGuardFraming & Carpentry subcontractor insurance requirements
What a general contractor should require from a framing & carpentry subcontractor before they set foot on site, and the coverage gap that most often turns a framing & carpentry job into the GC's claim.
Why framing & carpentry insurance matters
Structural framing errors carry completed-operations exposure, and the trade runs high labor headcount (falls, nail-gun, saw injuries).
What to require from a framing & carpentry sub
General liability, workers' comp for a labor-heavy crew, and completed operations for structural defect claims.
Usually not a separately licensed trade; larger structural scopes may fall under a general building contractor license.
Additional insured ongoing + completed operations.
Underreported payroll on the workers' comp policy, which can leave injured framers uncovered and the exposure climbing to you.
Most of these gaps come down to one thing: additional insured status and the right endorsement.
General information, not legal or insurance advice; confirm requirements with your broker and the terms of your subcontract.
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Framing & Carpentry insurance FAQ
What insurance should a framing & carpentry subcontractor carry?+
At minimum, General liability, workers' comp for a labor-heavy crew, and completed operations for structural defect claims.
Do framing & carpentry subcontractors need a license?+
Usually not a separately licensed trade; larger structural scopes may fall under a general building contractor license. Always confirm the requirement in the state and locality where the work happens.
What's the most common COI gap on framing & carpentry work?+
Underreported payroll on the workers' comp policy, which can leave injured framers uncovered and the exposure climbing to you.
Other trades
Requirements also vary by state; see insurance requirements by state.