New Hampshire Contractor Insurance Requirements
New Hampshire requires workers' compensation for all employers, regardless of employee count, under RSA 281-A. The New Hampshire Department of Labor enforces compliance. New Hampshire does not require a statewide contractor license for most work, which means insurance requirements are largely driven by municipal permits and contract terms. The state's Seacoast and Lakes Region property markets drive demand for seasonal contractor compliance.
New Hampshire COI Requirements at a Glance
The following table summarizes the minimum insurance requirements for contractors operating in New Hampshire. Commercial property managers often require limits above state minimums.
| Coverage Type | Minimum / Status |
|---|---|
| General Liability (per occurrence) | $300,000 |
| General Liability (aggregate) | $600,000 |
| Workers' Compensation | Mandatory Any employer |
| Umbrella / Excess Liability | Commonly Required on Large Projects Common minimum: $1,000,000 |
| Additional Insured Endorsement | Commonly Required |
| Waiver of Subrogation | Less Common |
Coverage Notes
GL: No statewide minimum, but municipal permits and commercial contracts typically require $300K–$1M. Property managers typically require $1M/$2M.
WC: RSA 281-A:5 requires WC for all employers regardless of employee count. Sole proprietors performing construction work must carry WC under most commercial contract requirements.
Umbrella: Required on larger commercial and state agency contracts.
Additional Insured: Standard on commercial property management contracts.
Waiver of Subrogation: Less common than in larger states; included in most commercial lease templates.
New Hampshire-Specific Laws & Regulations
These laws directly affect how contractor insurance requirements are structured in New Hampshire. Property managers should be familiar with these statutes when reviewing vendor COIs.
RSA 281-A (Workers' Compensation Act)
Mandatory WC for all employers regardless of employee count. New Hampshire Department of Labor administers the program.
New Hampshire COI Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from property managers and contractors about insurance requirements in New Hampshire.
Do contractors in New Hampshire need workers' compensation?
Yes. RSA 281-A:5 requires workers' compensation for all employers in New Hampshire regardless of employee count. Even a solo contractor who hires one part-time employee must carry WC.
Does New Hampshire require a statewide contractor license?
New Hampshire does not require a general contractor license at the state level. Electrical, plumbing, and some specialty contractors must be licensed by the state, but general contractors are typically licensed at the municipal level. Always check local permit requirements.
What insurance should New Hampshire property managers require from contractors?
Request at least $1M/$2M GL for commercial work, workers' compensation, and additional insured endorsements. For seasonal work or specialty trades, verify that coverage extends through the entire project period.
What COI requirements are typical for New Hampshire commercial property?
New Hampshire commercial property managers should require $1M/$2M GL, workers' compensation, and additional insured endorsements. For coastal or lakefront properties, also request inland marine and watercraft liability if the contractor operates boats or marine equipment.
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