Insurance for architects in Texas

General liability insurance is the foundation of an architect’s business protection, with coverage that extends to client injuries, client property damage, and advertising injuries. Most commercial leases require you to have this coverage.

Architects often qualify for a business owner’s policy. This package helps your business save money by bundling commercial property insurance with general liability insurance at an affordable rate.

Many clients require proof of professional liability insurance before entering into contracts for professional services. This policy, also called errors and omissions insurance or architect liability insurance, can help cover legal expenses if you’re sued for unsatisfactory performance or a work mistake.

In Texas, workers’ compensation coverage is not required, even if you have employees. However, private employers who work on public projects must have this insurance. Even though you’re not required to have workers’ comp, you're still responsible for employee medical bills when they are hurt on the job. This policy can help pay for medical expenses and lost wages associated with occupational injuries.

If you don't purchase workers’ compensation insurance in Texas, you are considered a non-subscriber and are required to:

• File an annual notice with the Division of Workers' Compensation
• Post notices in your personnel offices and workplaces
• Tell each new employee in writing that they don't have workers' compensation

Workers' comp is strongly recommended, even for sole proprietors and independent contractors, as health insurance companies can deny claims for injuries related to your job.

Architects who store sensitive customer information, such as email addresses or credit card numbers, should invest in cyber liability insurance. This policy helps businesses recover from cyberattacks and data breaches. For example, it would cover the cost of notifying affected customers and providing them with fraud monitoring services after a breach.

Commercial auto insurance can cover vehicles your business owns or uses for business purposes. If your vehicle is involved in an accident, this policy can cover your liability for another person's bodily injuries and property damage. It can also pay for vehicle theft, weather damage, and vandalism.

Texas' requirements for auto insurance are:

• $30,000 in bodily injury liability or death liability per person
• $60,000 in bodily injury liability or death liability to more than one person
• $25,000 in property damage per accident

Architects might need a license or permit bond to obtain a license in their state or work on a project. These bonds are types of surety bonds that guarantee you will fulfill the terms of a contract and adhere to local regulations. The contract will usually specify the size of the bond that you need.

Texas architects must earn a degree and gain experience in the field in order to get licensed.