Painters Insurance: Coverage That Keeps Your Business Looking Sharp
Mr. Hoots breaks down the must-have coverage for painters—because accidents can leave more than just a bad finish.
Hoo’s there? Mr. Hoots here—your favorite wise-cracking, paint-splattered owl. Whether you’re rolling walls, spraying exteriors, or tackling touch-ups, painting is equal parts skill, precision, and balance. But even the steadiest hands can make costly mistakes—and I’m not just talking about color choices. Let’s brush through what coverage every painter needs to stay protected when things don’t go according to plan.
What kinds of risks do painters face?
- Property damage — paint overspray on vehicles, floors, or furniture.
- Injuries — ladder falls, chemical exposure, or eye irritation from solvents.
- Tool & equipment theft — sprayers, compressors, and scaffolding often disappear from job sites.
- Client complaints — smudges, spills, or delays can quickly turn into disputes.
- Vehicle accidents — transporting gear between jobs means more time on the road.
Core coverage every painter should have
- General Liability (GL) – covers paint spills, overspray, or property damage to clients’ homes.
- Tools & Equipment Coverage (Inland Marine) — protects your sprayers, ladders, and gear from theft or damage on-site or in transit.
- Workers’ Comp – if you’ve got helpers, it’s a must; even solo painters often need it for certain contracts.
- Commercial Auto – covers your van, truck, or trailer used to haul paint and supplies.
Common claims in the painting world
- Overspray damage on vehicles or nearby property
- Spilled paint on floors, rugs, or furniture
- Falls from ladders or scaffolding causing injury
- Damaged siding or trim during exterior prep
- Tool theft from job sites or work vehicles
Even small mishaps can cost thousands, and that’s before you factor in lost time and client frustration.
Contract requirements you’ll see often
Most commercial and residential projects will ask for:
- Skipping overspray coverage – not all GL policies automatically include it.
- Ignoring ladder and height limits – some policies restrict coverage above certain heights.
- Assuming your tools are covered under your shop or homeowners policy – they usually aren’t.
- Underinsuring vehicles or trailers – many painters haul thousands in gear without realizing it’s not covered.
Quick safety wins (that also help your rate)
- Secure ladders and scaffolds properly, every time.
- Use low-VOC paints to reduce chemical exposure.
- Keep tools clean and cords organized to avoid tripping.
- Never leave sprayers or equipment unlocked on-site overnight.
Mr. Hoots’ Bottom Line
Painting is an art, but protecting your business is a science. One paint spill or fall can wipe out a week’s profit faster than you can say “second coat.” So keep your coverage fresh, your contracts clean, and your claims out of the picture.