Updated July 8, 2026
The Short Answer
Plumbers typically pay from about $780/year for general liability insurance, roughly 2.6x the base office rate. That figure shifts with your revenue, how many plumbers you employ, and your state; check the GL cost calculator for a number built around your shop.
Why Plumbers Pay This Rate
General liability rates trace back to a simple pair of inputs: trade risk class and annual revenue. A failed fitting or an improperly capped line inside a client's home can produce water damage claims running into tens of thousands of dollars, which is why the multiplier sits well above the office baseline.
One Thing Worth Knowing
Many municipalities require proof of GL to renew a plumbing license or pull permits, separate from whatever a client or general contractor asks for. Confirm your state's specific limit requirement before you shop.
Filling In the Rest of Your Coverage
Employees on the books mean workers' comp is required in most states; the calculator puts a number on it. A BOP folds property coverage in at a bundled discount over standalone policies. If you want a plain-language primer first, the SBA business insurance guide is a solid starting point.