Pennsylvania Contractor General Liability Insurance

Pennsylvania's insurance rule is narrower than many contractors think. The state is not imposing one blanket GL minimum on every contractor in every setting. The insurance filing comes from the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, and it applies to contractors that offer or perform covered home improvement work on private residences.

The minimum the Attorney General asks for

The Office of Attorney General says a home improvement contractor registration application must include insurance information showing at least $50,000 of personal injury liability coverage and $50,000 of property damage coverage. That is the state floor for HICPA registration, not a recommendation for what every project owner will accept.

Where the filing belongs

The registration runs through the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, not the Insurance Department. Contractors register through the HIC portal, and the FAQ says registrations stay valid for two years. The same FAQ also says the contractor has to update the Bureau within 30 days if the insurance information changes.

The current registration cost

As of March 2, 2026, the Attorney General's registration page says new and renewal HIC applications submitted after that date require a $100 non-refundable fee. That fee is separate from whatever premium the carrier charges for the policy itself.

Why this page matters

The practical mistake is treating the HICPA minimum like a safe bid number for every job. It is not. Residential registration may only need the state minimum, while a GC, lender, or owner can still demand much higher limits, additional-insured wording, or completed-operations coverage.

*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Verify current requirements with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and with the party asking you for proof of coverage.*