Hiscox vs Next Insurance vs Simply Business: Best Insurance for Solo Tradespeople
You're a skilled tradesperson, not an insurance expert. But one dropped wrench, a stray nail, or a burst pipe on a job site can erase your new solo business before it even takes off. You need solid protection, but you also can't afford to waste money on policies you don't need or complex systems that slow you down. This guide cuts through the noise to show you which insurer — Next, Hiscox, or Simply Business — fits your hands-on work and helps you get covered fast, so you can focus on building your trade.
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The Quick Answer for Solo Trades
For most first-time self-employed tradespeople like roofers, plumbers, flooring, tile, or drywall pros, **Next Insurance** is often the fastest and simplest path. You can get a General Liability (GL) policy and a Certificate of Insurance (COI) in under 10 minutes, which is key when a client needs proof of coverage before you even step on site. **Simply Business** is a strong second choice if you need to compare rates for GL, add coverage for your tools, or get commercial auto insurance for your work truck. **Hiscox** is generally less suited for pure hands-on trades; it shines for consultants or professionals who give advice rather than perform physical labor.
Side-by-Side Breakdown for Tradespeople
Here's how these options stack up for a solo tradesperson:
**Next Insurance:** This is an online-only insurer built for contractors and service businesses. Quotes are instant, and General Liability can start as low as $25/month for trades like cleaning or minor repairs. The real win for you is how quickly you can get a COI – clients on bigger jobs often demand this before you start work, and Next lets you download it instantly. They also offer tools and equipment coverage.
**Hiscox:** Hiscox specializes in small business insurance, but their core strength is Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions) — the kind of coverage an architect or IT consultant needs. While they offer GL, their process can be slower for trades, and their focus might not align perfectly with the immediate needs of a solo plumber or roofer. It's often overkill if your main risk is physical damage or injury.
**Simply Business:** This isn't an insurer directly; it's an online marketplace that gets you quotes from multiple carriers (like Markel, Travelers, and others). It's incredibly useful if you want to compare prices for your General Liability, or if your needs are more complex – for instance, if you need commercial auto insurance for your work van, or specific coverage for expensive equipment like a tile saw or pressure washer. It helps you see more options without calling many different companies.
When to Choose Next Insurance for Your Trade Business
Choose Next when you need coverage *right now*. Many general contractors or property managers won't let you start a job without a valid COI. Next lets you get insured and download that certificate in minutes, so you don't lose a day of work. It’s ideal if you’re a hands-on tradesperson (roofer, plumber, flooring installer, painter) and want to manage your policy on your phone. If you frequently work for different clients who require being added as an 'additional insured' on your policy, Next's app makes this a painless process, letting you create and send new COIs on the fly, which is a common need on larger commercial or residential projects.
When to Choose Hiscox for Your Trade Business
For most solo tradespeople whose work involves physical labor, Hiscox's primary strength (Professional Liability/E&O) isn't your biggest concern. General Liability covers things like dropping a tool and damaging a client's floor, or a customer tripping over your toolbox. E&O covers claims that your *advice* or *design* caused financial loss. So, if you're a plumber who also designs complex water systems, or a tile installer who provides design consultations, Hiscox *could* be relevant. Otherwise, it's likely more coverage than a pure tradesperson typically needs, and you might find more cost-effective options elsewhere.
When to Use Simply Business for Your Trade Business
Use Simply Business when you want to compare several insurance options without all the legwork. This is smart if you're unsure if Next's price is competitive, or if your needs go beyond basic General Liability. For example, if you just bought a new work truck or van, you'll need commercial auto insurance. If you own expensive tools like a concrete saw, specialized plumbing equipment, or power tools, you’ll want tools and equipment coverage. Simply Business can bundle these, helping you find the best value across multiple carriers. It's also great if you prefer to speak with a broker who can walk you through different options specific to your trade.
The Verdict for Solo Tradesmen
Most new self-employed tradespeople should start their insurance search with **Next Insurance**. It’s built for speed, simplicity, and the common needs of hands-on contractors, especially getting those crucial Certificates of Insurance instantly. If you have a work vehicle, expensive tools, or simply want to shop around for the best price on your General Liability, then run a comparison through **Simply Business** next. Don't skip this step – operating without the right liability coverage as a solo tradesperson is the single fastest way to lose everything you're trying to build, whether it's from a flood caused by a faulty pipe repair or a falling roof shingle.
How to Get Started with Your Contractor Insurance
1. **Identify Your Core Needs:** As a solo tradesperson, your absolute must-have is General Liability (GL) insurance. Also consider Tools & Equipment coverage for your gear and Commercial Auto insurance if you use a dedicated work vehicle. 2. **Get a Fast GL Quote:** Start with Next Insurance for a quick quote on General Liability. See if the price and coverage fit your budget and immediate job requirements. 3. **Compare If Needed:** If Next's quote feels high, or if you need to bundle commercial auto or extensive tools coverage, use Simply Business to compare multiple carriers and policies tailored to your trade. 4. **Purchase Before Your First Paid Job:** Do not start any work for a paying customer without active insurance. Even a small accident can have huge financial consequences. 5. **Download and Share Your COI:** Once purchased, immediately download your Certificate of Insurance. Save it on your phone and in the cloud so you can send it to general contractors, clients, or property managers in seconds when they ask for proof of coverage.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need business insurance if I am an LLC?
Yes. An LLC protects your personal assets from business debts, but it does not protect you from liability claims arising from your work. If a client sues you, the LLC limits personal exposure but the business itself still needs insurance to cover legal costs and settlements.
What is the difference between general liability and professional liability?
General liability covers bodily injury and property damage — someone trips and falls at your event, for example. Professional liability (E&O) covers claims that your work, advice, or service caused financial harm to a client. Most service businesses need both.
How much does small business insurance cost?
General liability for a low-risk service business typically starts at $25-50/month. Professional liability adds $30-80/month depending on your profession and revenue. Bundled policies (BOP) can be more cost-effective for businesses with physical locations.
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