Yes. If you're getting paid to hang lights on someone else's home or business, you need business insurance. At minimum that means general liability, plus workers' comp if you have help and inland marine coverage for your lights, ladders, and gear. Your homeowners or personal auto policy almost never covers paid work like this.
Holiday lighting is one of the fastest growing seasonal businesses we see across Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan. Landscapers, roofers, and gutter companies are adding it to fill the slow months, and plenty of folks are starting it from scratch. It's good money, but it's also roof work in cold, wet, windy weather. Here's what we tell our clients before they book their first job.
What does general liability cover for holiday light installers?
General liability insurance covers you if your work causes damage to someone's property or injures someone who isn't on your crew. For light installers, the common claims we see are:
Most commercial customers and HOAs will ask to see proof of coverage, usually through a certificate of insurance (COI), before you start. A typical starting point is $1 million per occurrence, but some property managers ask for more.
Do I need workers' comp for my seasonal crew?
If you hire help, even just for six weeks, you probably need workers' compensation. Each state handles it a little differently:
Falls are the big risk here. One bad slip off an icy roof can mean medical bills and lost wages that would sink a small business without coverage. And treating helpers as "1099 contractors" doesn't always hold up if the state decides they're actually employees.
Is ladder and roof work covered?
Usually, yes, but it's worth checking. Some general liability policies have exclusions or higher rates for height work or roofing activities. Be upfront with your agent about how much of your work is on rooftops versus ground level shrubs and trees. Being honest on the application is what keeps a claim from getting denied later.
Do I need inland marine coverage for my lights and equipment?
Inland marine insurance (sometimes called tools and equipment coverage) protects gear that moves from job to job. Think commercial grade lights, timers, clips, ladders, and lifts. If your trailer gets broken into or a storm wrecks your inventory, this is the coverage that replaces it. Your general liability policy won't.
What about my truck?
If you're driving to jobs and hauling equipment, you need commercial auto insurance. Personal auto policies often deny claims when the vehicle is being used for business. This matters even more in winter when roads get slick.
Let's Get You Ready Before the Rush
Holiday light season moves fast, and most installers are booked solid by Thanksgiving. Getting your coverage lined up now means you can say yes to the big commercial jobs that require a COI. Our team has worked with contractors across Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan for generations, and we're happy to walk you through your options. Reach out and let's talk.
Disclaimer: This article is provided by Shurr Insurance Agency for general informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance, legal, or financial advice. Coverage availability, terms, and requirements vary by carrier and state. Please contact Shurr Insurance Agency to discuss your specific situation.