Painters work inside customers’ homes and on commercial projects with ladders, lifts and scaffolding. We insure residential and commercial painting, coatings and waterproofing contractors across Southern California, and we turn around certificates fast so you can start the job.
Start a painters & coatings quote or call 888-391-5981.
Common risks
- Overspray damages a car, roof or neighboring property
- Paint or a coating fails and the customer claims damage
- A painter falls from a ladder, lift or scaffold
- A customer’s floor or furniture is damaged during an interior job
- A work van is in an accident
Coverage most painters & coatings need
| Coverage | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| General liability | Property damage and injuries you cause, including problems that show up after the job is done. |
| Workers compensation | Required with employees, and for all licensed contractors starting January 1, 2028. |
| Commercial auto | Vans and trucks used for the business. |
| Contractor bond | The $25,000 CSLB bond for C-33 painting and decorating licensees. |
| Tools & equipment | Sprayers, lifts and scaffolding. |
California requirements & what to know
California painting contractors are licensed by CSLB as C-33. If you work on homes built before 1978, the EPA lead renovation (RRP) rules apply, and many general liability policies exclude lead-related claims. Ask us how your policy handles it. All licensed contractors must carry workers compensation starting January 1, 2028. Learn more.
Why business owners work with Pierce
- We’re an independent agency with access to standard carriers and specialty (surplus lines) markets, so we can place risks many agents turn down.
- A licensed agent handles your account from quote to renewal.
- Certificates of insurance, additional insureds and policy changes are handled fast. Request a COI.
- Local offices in San Dimas and Monrovia.
Related: Contractors · Welding & fabrication · 2028 contractor workers comp rule · General liability
Frequently asked questions
Does general liability cover overspray?
Usually yes, as third-party property damage. Some policies exclude or limit it, so we check before you bind.
I’m a one-person painting business. What do I need?
At minimum, general liability and the CSLB contractor bond. Starting January 1, 2028, you’ll also need workers compensation even without employees.