The Plumbing Business, whether it is Residential Plumbing or Commercial plumbing is crucial business when pipes break, leaks are discovered, we need a water heater for warm water or any number of necessary plumbing repairs. With this important service comes a significant amount of plumbing insurance risk that plumbers must consider for their business. Here is a list of the most common plumbing insurance claims.

1. Property Damage: Often due to water damage during repairs or installations. A burst pipe or faulty repair can lead to extensive damage to walls, floors, and personal property. This is one of the most frequent claims and can be costly. This type of loss is covered plumbing general liability insurance.
2. Bodily Injury: Injuries to clients or third parties on the job site, such as slips on wet floors or accidental injuries during the plumbing work, can lead to liability claims. This is another potential claim for Plumbing Liability Insurance.
3. Product Liability: Claims from faulty parts, fixtures, or materials used in a plumbing job that cause damage or injury. If a product fails after installation, leading to water leaks or other issues, clients may file claims against the plumber.
4. Completed Operations: This covers liability claims that arise after the job is completed. For instance, if a repair or installation fails and causes property damage or injury after the contractor has left, this coverage helps cover related claims.
5. Tools and Equipment Loss or Damage: Plumbers rely on specialized tools and equipment. Theft, damage, or loss of these items is a common claim, especially when equipment is left on-site overnight or in unsecured areas. A loss of tools is common for our plumbers and a number of contractors that decide to leave tools on a jobsite. The most common insurance claim and loss that we see is when plumbing contractors leave tools and equipment on a jobsite in a trailer and the trailer is stolen.
6. Auto Accidents: If the plumber’s work vehicle is involved in an accident, this can lead to an insurance claim for property damage, bodily injury, or even tool loss if tools are in the vehicle. Most plumbing businesses have a commercial auto insurance policy for their truck or van. These business auto policies are covered the same as a personal auto insurance policy. Commercial auto liability and physical damage coverage for your truck or van.
7. Employment Practices Liability: If the plumbing contractor has employees, there can be claims related to wrongful termination, harassment, or discrimination. While not unique to plumbing, it’s relevant to any business with staff.
8. Business Interruption: If a major event (e.g., fire, natural disaster) prevents a plumbing contractor from operating, business interruption insurance claims can help cover lost income and operating expenses.

These claim types highlight the importance of a comprehensive insurance package for plumbing contractors, often including general liability, property insurance and commercial auto policies, along with optional coverages specific to the trade. Contact Ameriguard Insurance about our Plumbing Business Specialist Program, where we have specific coverage and discounts for plumbers insurance.