Coverage Reviews States Blog FAQ Quote

Specialized coverage for fireproofing contractors - Get your free quote today! Get Quote

Specialized Insurance for Fireproofing Contractors & SFRM Installers

Comprehensive coverage designed specifically for fireproofing contractors, intumescent coating applicators, and passive fire protection specialists. Protect your business with industry-specific liability, pollution, and equipment coverage.

Get Your Custom Quote

Why Standard Contractor Insurance Falls Short for Fireproofing Specialists

Industry-Specific Risks Not Covered

  • Standard policies exclude coverage for SFRM and intumescent coating application risks

  • No protection against chemical exposure claims from fireproofing materials

  • Limited coverage for specialized equipment and spray application tools

  • Generic policies don't understand passive fire protection industry requirements

Specialized Fireproofing Insurance Solution

  • Coverage specifically designed for SFRM installation and intumescent coating application

  • Pollution liability protection for chemical exposure and environmental claims

  • Equipment coverage for specialized fireproofing tools and spray equipment

  • Industry expertise from agents who understand passive fire protection requirements

Get Specialized Fireproofing Coverage Today

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage for Every Type of Fireproofing Work

From SFRM installation to intumescent coating application, we provide specialized coverage that understands the unique risks of passive fire protection contractors.

General Liability Protection

  • Bodily injury coverage during SFRM application
  • Property damage from fireproofing operations
  • Product liability for intumescent coatings
  • Completed operations coverage for fire protection systems

Pollution Liability Coverage

  • Chemical exposure claims from fireproofing materials
  • Environmental contamination from spray applications
  • Cleanup costs for material spills and overspray
  • Third-party bodily injury from chemical exposure

Professional & Equipment Coverage

  • Professional liability for design and specification errors
  • Specialized spray equipment and tool coverage
  • Material waste and rework protection
  • Business interruption for equipment breakdown

Trusted by Fireproofing Contractors Nationwide

Mike Rodriguez

Phoenix Fire Protection Solutions

"Finally found an insurance agent who understands SFRM application risks. Their pollution liability coverage saved us when we had a material spill issue. The claims process was smooth and professional."

Sarah Chen

Intumescent Coating Specialists LLC

"The specialized equipment coverage is exactly what our spray application business needed. Josh understood our unique risks and tailored a policy that actually protects our operations."

We Understand Every Aspect of the Fireproofing Industry

Our specialized knowledge covers all types of fireproofing operations, from structural steel fireproofing to advanced intumescent coating systems.

SFRM Installation Contractors

Spray-applied fire resistive material (SFRM) installers face unique risks from chemical exposure, overspray contamination, and specialized equipment operations.

  • Cementitious SFRM application coverage
  • Fiber-based fireproofing material protection
  • Gypsum-based spray application insurance
  • High-velocity, low-pressure equipment coverage

Intumescent Coating Specialists

Intumescent coating application requires precision and specialized knowledge. Our policies protect against unique application risks and performance claims.

  • Thin-film intumescent coating application
  • Thick-film fireproofing system coverage
  • Multi-coat system application protection
  • Performance specification liability coverage

Passive Fire Protection Systems

Comprehensive fire protection system installers need coverage that understands the complexity of passive fire protection integration with building systems.

  • Fire-rated assembly installation
  • Penetration sealing and firestopping
  • Structural steel fireproofing systems
  • Building code compliance protection

Why Choose Our Specialized Coverage?

Unlike generic contractor insurance, our policies are specifically designed for the fireproofing industry. We understand your unique risks, regulatory requirements, and operational challenges.

Industry Expertise

Our agents understand SFRM, intumescent coatings, and passive fire protection systems.

Specialized Coverage

Policies tailored for chemical exposure, pollution liability, and equipment risks.

Claims Experience

Experience handling fireproofing-specific claims and understanding industry challenges.

Competitive Rates

Specialized underwriting often results in better rates than generic contractor policies.

Get Your Specialized Quote Today

Business Registration & Insurance Info by State

Click on any state to explore comprehensive guides on starting a business, state-specific insurance requirements, business certificates, licensing, and everything you need to know about doing business in that state

Full Business Guides Available Coming Soon

Each State Guide Includes:

✓ Business Registration ✓ Insurance Requirements ✓ Business Certificates ✓ Licensing Info ✓ Tax Requirements ✓ Local Regulations
View All State Business Guides →

Expert Fireproofing Insurance Insights

Essential guidance for fireproofing contractors navigating insurance challenges

Insurance Coverage

The Hidden Costs of Inadequate Insurance

January 18, 2025 • 15 min read

Why standard general liability isn't enough for fireproofing contractors. Learn about critical coverage gaps and real-world claim scenarios.

Read More →
Compliance

NFPA Compliance and Your Insurance

January 18, 2025 • 18 min read

How proper documentation can save your business from million-dollar claims and reduce insurance premiums.

Read More →
Chemical Liability

Chemical Exposure Claims in Fireproofing

January 18, 2025 • 16 min read

Understanding long-term liability when workers or bystanders get sick from fireproofing chemicals.

Read More →
View All Articles

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of fireproofing contractors need specialized insurance coverage?

All fireproofing contractors require specialized coverage, including spray-applied fire-resistive material (SFRM) installers, intumescent coating applicators, passive fire protection specialists, firestopping contractors, and steel fireproofing specialists. Whether you work on commercial buildings, industrial facilities, hospitals, schools, or residential complexes, standard contractor insurance won't adequately protect against the unique risks of chemical exposure, system performance failures, and long-term liability inherent in fireproofing work.

How much does fireproofing contractor insurance typically cost?

Insurance costs vary based on your revenue, project types, claims history, and coverage limits. A typical fireproofing contractor with $3 million annual revenue might pay $15,000-$25,000 for general liability, $8,000-$12,000 for professional liability, $6,000-$10,000 for pollution liability, and $3,000-$5,000 for umbrella coverage. Total annual premiums usually range from 1-2% of revenue, but comprehensive coverage providing real protection is worth the investment compared to potential multi-million dollar claims.

What's the minimum insurance coverage fireproofing contractors should carry?

At minimum, fireproofing contractors should carry $2 million general liability per occurrence, $2 million professional liability, $2 million pollution liability, and $5 million umbrella coverage. However, contractors working on large projects, hospitals, or government facilities often need higher limits. Many contracts require specific minimum coverages, and catastrophic claims can easily exceed basic limits, making higher coverage levels prudent for long-term business protection.

Can I get insurance if I've had previous claims or violations?

Yes, insurance is available even with prior claims or violations, though premiums may be higher initially. Specialized insurers understand the fireproofing industry's risks and can provide coverage when standard markets decline. Demonstrating improved safety procedures, compliance programs, and risk management since past incidents helps secure better terms. Working with experienced brokers who understand fireproofing risks is crucial for finding appropriate coverage despite past issues.

What's the difference between occurrence and claims-made policies for fireproofing work?

Occurrence policies cover incidents that happen during the policy period regardless of when claims are filed, providing better long-term protection for fireproofing contractors facing potential claims years after project completion. Claims-made policies only cover claims filed while the policy is active, requiring expensive tail coverage if you switch carriers or retire. Given the long-tail nature of chemical exposure and system failure claims, occurrence-based coverage is generally preferable for fireproofing contractors.

Do I need separate insurance for different types of fireproofing materials?

While you don't need separate policies for different materials, your coverage should address all materials you use. Some policies exclude certain hazardous materials or require specific endorsements for high-risk products. Ensure your pollution liability covers all chemicals in your materials, professional liability addresses all application methods, and general liability doesn't exclude specific fireproofing types. Discuss all materials and methods with your broker to ensure comprehensive coverage.

How does fireproofing insurance handle warranty and guarantee claims?

Standard general liability typically excludes warranty claims beyond repairing or replacing your work. Professional liability insurance covers performance guarantees and warranties, essential when you guarantee specific fire ratings or system performance. Ensure your professional liability specifically includes coverage for express warranties and performance guarantees. Document all warranties provided and maintain coverage for the full warranty period, as claims can arise years after project completion.

What happens to my insurance coverage if I stop doing fireproofing work?

If you cease fireproofing operations, you still need coverage for past work. Purchase extended reporting period (tail) coverage for claims-made policies, maintain occurrence-based policies for their full statute of limitations period, and consider reduced-limit policies specifically for completed operations. Many contractors maintain coverage for 10+ years after retiring due to long-tail exposure risks. Consult with your broker about the most cost-effective approach for maintaining protection.

Are my employees covered if they get sick from fireproofing chemicals?

Workers compensation covers employee injuries and illnesses from workplace chemical exposure, including medical expenses and lost wages. However, employers liability coverage (Part Two of workers comp) protects against employee lawsuits alleging negligent exposure. Ensure your workers comp specifically covers occupational diseases and chemical exposure. Maintain detailed exposure records and safety training documentation to defend against claims that might exceed workers comp boundaries.

How quickly can I get fireproofing insurance coverage?

Basic coverage can often be bound within 24-48 hours for standard risks with clean loss history. However, comprehensive coverage including professional and pollution liability may take 1-2 weeks for underwriting. Complex risks, high limits, or adverse loss history may require 2-4 weeks. Start the insurance process well before you need coverage, especially if bidding on projects with specific insurance requirements. Working with specialized brokers can expedite the process.

What insurance do I need as a fireproofing subcontractor vs. general contractor?

Subcontractors need coverage protecting against their direct work, including general liability, professional liability if providing design services, and pollution liability for chemical exposure. General contractors need broader coverage including contractors protective liability, excess liability over subcontractors, and potentially wrap-up policies. Both need adequate limits and additional insured endorsements. Subcontractors should ensure their coverage isn't eroded by indemnification agreements with GCs.

Does fireproofing insurance cover testing and inspection services?

If you provide testing and inspection services, you need professional liability coverage specifically including these activities. Standard general liability won't cover errors in testing or inspection recommendations. Ensure coverage includes third-party testing you subcontract and reports you issue. Some insurers offer specialized testing and inspection coverage. Document all testing procedures, equipment calibration, and maintain detailed records to support your professional services.

How do additional insured endorsements work for fireproofing contractors?

Additional insured endorsements extend your liability coverage to other parties, typically general contractors or property owners. These endorsements can be blanket (automatically including parties required by contract) or scheduled (specifically naming each party). Ensure endorsements don't excessively limit your coverage and understand whether they cover ongoing or completed operations. Track all additional insured requirements and confirm endorsements are issued to avoid contract violations.

What's contractors protective liability and do fireproofing contractors need it?

Contractors protective liability provides coverage for vicarious liability arising from subcontractors' work. If you hire subcontractors for any portion of fireproofing work, this coverage protects against their errors even if they have their own insurance. It's particularly important when subcontractors have inadequate limits or exclusions. This coverage preserves your own liability limits for claims arising directly from your work rather than depleting them for subcontractor issues.

Can I get insurance for fireproofing work on government projects?

Yes, but government projects often have specific insurance requirements including higher limits, particular endorsements, and sometimes surety bonds. Federal projects may require compliance with Miller Act bonding requirements. State and local projects have varying requirements. Ensure your insurance program meets all specifications before bidding. Some insurers specialize in contractors doing government work and understand unique requirements like certified payroll and compliance documentation.

How does fireproofing insurance handle multi-state operations?

Most commercial insurance policies provide nationwide coverage, but you must be licensed and comply with insurance requirements in each state where you work. Workers compensation must be purchased separately for each state or through a multi-state policy. Some states have unique insurance requirements or minimum limits. Professional and pollution liability typically cover work anywhere in the US. Inform your broker about all states where you operate to ensure proper coverage.

What insurance documentation do I need to provide for fireproofing projects?

Typically, you'll need to provide certificates of insurance showing required coverages and limits, additional insured endorsements naming specified parties, waiver of subrogation endorsements if required, primary and non-contributory wording, and sometimes complete policy copies. Maintain organized records of insurance requirements for each project. Use a certificate tracking system to ensure compliance. Failure to provide proper documentation can result in contract default even with adequate coverage.

Does business owner's policy (BOP) provide adequate coverage for fireproofing contractors?

No, BOPs are designed for low-risk businesses and don't provide adequate coverage for fireproofing contractors. BOPs typically exclude professional liability, pollution liability, and have limited general liability. They often exclude high-hazard operations like fireproofing. While BOPs might cover your office and business property, you need specialized contractor's insurance for fireproofing operations. Never rely on a BOP as your primary coverage for fireproofing work.

Get Your Free Fireproofing Insurance Quote

Complete our quick form and receive a custom insurance quote designed specifically for your fireproofing operations within 24 hours.

  • Custom quotes for SFRM and intumescent coating contractors

  • Specialized coverage including pollution liability and equipment protection

  • Expert guidance from agents who understand fireproofing industry risks

By submitting this form, you agree to our privacy policy.