Flooring

Protecting Your Flooring Business From Common Risks

Flooring contractors work in intimate contact with their clients' spaces. You're inside their homes and businesses, often moving furniture, using strong adhesives, and making changes that are immediately visible. This close work environment creates exposures that require thoughtful insurance protection.

From hardwood installation to tile work to carpet replacement, each flooring specialty brings its own set of risks. A comprehensive insurance program addresses the common threads that run through all flooring work.

What Can Go Wrong During a Flooring Project?

Consider the risks flooring contractors face regularly:

• Subfloor damage discovered after removing old flooring
• Adhesive fumes causing reactions in sensitive individuals
• Scratches or dents to furniture during moving
• Newly installed floors buckling or separating weeks after completion
• Water damage from improper installation around bathrooms and kitchens

Each of these scenarios can result in claims against your business.

Building Your Insurance Program

Flooring contractors need coverage that addresses both installation risks and long-term liability:

1. General liability insurance for damage to customer property and injury claims
2. Completed operations coverage for flooring failures after installation
3. Tools and equipment protection for sanders, saws, and specialty installation tools
4. Commercial auto for vans carrying materials and equipment
5. Workers' compensation for employees exposed to dust, fumes, and physical strain

Are Fumes and Air Quality Issues Covered?

Modern flooring materials and adhesives have become more environmentally friendly, but some still release volatile organic compounds during installation. If a client claims health issues related to fumes from your work, you could face a liability claim.

Discuss air quality and product liability coverage with your insurance provider. Understanding how your policy addresses these claims before they occur helps you respond effectively if a situation arises.

Working in Occupied Spaces

Unlike some trades that work in unfinished spaces, flooring contractors often work in homes and businesses while they're still in use. This creates additional liability exposure as you navigate around personal belongings, pets, and daily activities.

Being careful is important, but accidents happen. Your insurance should protect you when a client's valuable furniture gets scratched or a pet escapes through an open door. Make sure your policy reflects the realities of your working environment.