South Carolina Business Insurance

It's Required

Some lines of commercial insurance are legally required to do business in the State of South Carolina. Rest Easy! Builders has you covered!

Request a Quote for South Carolina Business Insurance

the business insurance coverage you need

South Carolina Commercial Insurance Products

From workers' compensation to general liability, we designed our product suite to protect your team and operations. Explore our coverage options for South Carolina below.

Building South Carolina's Future:

Tailored Protection
for The Palmetto State

From the tidal marshes of the ACE Basin to the tech hubs of the Upstate, South Carolina's economic landscape is diverse. While construction cranes dot skylines from Charleston's districts to Greenville's innovative Verdae developments, parallel transformations are occurring in manufacturing plants, medical complexes, and Main Street businesses across the Palmetto State. A property and casualty insurance leader, Builders is the Southeast's reliable expert and workforce advocate serving agents and their clients through deep partnerships, service excellence, and financial strength.

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At Builders Insurance, we combine three decades of construction risk expertise with expanding solutions for South Carolina’s vibrant small business ecosystem, including comprehensive workers insurance compensation packages.

Construction Core, Statewide Expertise

Construction starts across South Carolina surged by 26% in 2024, recovering from a 2023 slowdown, driven by strong growth in the manufacturing sector, according to construction trend reports. Coastal developments near Hilton Head Island’s golf resorts demand specialized flood risk mitigation, while inland projects like the BMW Spartanburg plant expansion require innovative liability solutions. Our worker’s compensation policies—honed through over 32 years of insuring complex construction sites—stand ready to safeguard employees in manufacturing facilities, healthcare offices, and hospitality venues across the state.

The residential boom remains strong, with Charleston-North Charleston ranking among America’s top 10 hottest housing markets. Builders Insurance supports this growth through surety bonds that meet South Carolina’s licensing requirements, including the $15,000 residential builder bond mandated by the state’s Residential Builders Commission. Our commercial package Policies can safeguard custom home builders crafting Lowcountry estates as effectively as they can protect restaurant owners renovating Columbia’s Five Points district.

Evolving Protection for New Ventures

While maintaining our construction specialization, we secure South Carolina’s entrepreneurial spirit across various sectors:

  • Manufacturing: From Georgetown’s steel mills to Greer’s automotive suppliers, our Umbrella Insurance stands ready to provide critical excess liability coverage for production facilities facing complex supply chain risks.
  • Healthcare: Protecting Upstate medical practices requires the same attention to regulatory compliance as Charleston historic renovations—a challenge our general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance can meet through adaptable coverage options. We understand the importance of both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation in this sector.
  • Hospitality: Myrtle Beach resort developers and Greenville boutique hoteliers alike stand to benefit from our property insurance solutions, designed for assets exposed to both hurricane seasons and tourism fluctuations.
  • Restaurants: From Charleston’s renowned seafood spots to Columbia’s bustling barbecue joints, South Carolina’s restaurants face unique risks-from kitchen accidents to hurricanes. Our insurance for restaurants helps protect restaurant staff and assets, and we also provide workers’ compensation and general liability insurance options tailored for this industry.
  • Retail: Whether it’s a boutique on Greenville’s Main Street or a surf shop in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina’s retail businesses must navigate risks like property damage, customer accidents, and much more. Our general liability insurance is ready to help.

Localized Solutions, Statewide Reach

Whether you’re pouring foundations near Lake Murray or opening a craft brewery in the Olde English District, our insurance adapts to South Carolina’s unique commercial landscape. The same risk management experts who are equipped help Charleston contractors navigate hurricane preparedness in an insurance policy are also able to provide OSHA compliance strategies for a safe jobsite with our Builders Safety Academy.

As manufacturing investment reaches $4.1B annually, our evolving products can address emerging needs—from robotics liability in Spartanburg plants to data breach coverage for Columbia tech startups. Yet construction remains our heritage: when doing the work of South Carolina, contractors and subcontractors still rely on our innovative solutions and expertise.

From the Blue Ridge foothills to the Port of Charleston, we insure South Carolina’s ambition—protecting hardhats and lab coats alike with equal precision. Let’s build your security as resiliently as the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, ensuring your enterprise thrives wherever Palmetto opportunities grow.

Request a quote and let’s get started today!

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Find a South Carolina Agent

Use our Agent Locator to connect with a knowledgeable Builders agent near you for personalized service and expert guidance on your insurance needs.

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Oakbridge Insurance Agency, LLC

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

3383 Rogers Bridge Rd
Suite 403A
Duluth,
GA
30097
770-476-0289
Builders Risk Commercial Auto Commercial Package General Liability Surety Bond Umbrella/Excess Workers' Compensation

Oakbridge Insurance Agency, LLC

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

950 Country Club Rd
Rocky Mount,
NC
27804
252-442-3186
Commercial Package General Liability Surety Bond Umbrella/Excess Workers' Compensation

ASSURED PARTNERS OF FL, LLC

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

14120 Metropolis Avenue
Fort Myers,
FL
33912
239-939-1400

OAKBRIDGE INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

850 Walnut Street
Macon,
GA
31201
478-743-0588
Builders Risk Commercial Auto Commercial Package General Liability Surety Bond Umbrella/Excess Workers' Compensation

OAKBRIDGE INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

8358 Main Street
Woodstock,
GA
30188
770-592-3132
Builders Risk Commercial Auto Commercial Package General Liability Surety Bond Umbrella/Excess Workers' Compensation

OAKBRIDGE INSURANCE AGENCY

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

823 Chickamauga Avenue
Rossville,
GA
30741
706-866-3394
Builders Risk Commercial Auto Commercial Package General Liability Surety Bond Umbrella/Excess Workers' Compensation

OAKBRIDGE INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

6310 Bradley Park Dr.
Columbus,
GA
31906
706-884-2361
Builders Risk Commercial Auto Commercial Package General Liability Surety Bond Umbrella/Excess Workers' Compensation

OAKBRIDGE INSURANCE AGENCY LLC

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

601 Mary Street
Waycross,
GA
31501
912-285-1732
Builders Risk Commercial Auto Commercial Package General Liability Surety Bond Umbrella/Excess Workers' Compensation

INNOVATIVE INSURANCE CONSULTANTS

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

5461 University Dr
Coral Springs,
FL
33067
954-340-9551
Commercial Package General Liability Surety Bond Umbrella/Excess Workers' Compensation

OAKBRIDGE INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC

This agency is a member of Builders' Apex Partner program.

4011 Westchase Boulevard
Raleigh,
NC
27607
919-417-7733
Commercial Package General Liability Surety Bond Umbrella/Excess Workers' Compensation
Agent Map

It's the Law

Commercial Insurance is Legally Required to Operate in South Carolina

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$1 Million+ Judgments

Hefty sums paid out for coastal construction defects involving mold and water intrusion.
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$5,000 projects

For your $5,000 residential construction project, South Carolina requires you to obtain a Surety Bond!
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Direct Liability

South Carolina contractors are liable for injuries to a subcontractor’s as though they were their own employees!
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≥4 employees

South Carolina requires 
you to Obtain Workers’ Compensation!

For a more in-depth information about laws and compliance, download our guide!

SC Laws and Compliance Guide
Industries

Insurance Built for Your Industry

Explore industry-specific insurance solutions designed to meet the unique challenges and needs of your South Carolina business.

South Carolina Insurance Built Strong®

Builders has been a trusted partner for builders and small businesses of all kinds throughout the Southeast since 1992.

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Customized Solutions

Competitive Rates,
Flexible Deductible Options,
Few Exclusions.
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Claims Excellence

Experienced Adjusters,
Dedicated Representatives,
Optimal Caseload.
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Financial Stability

Rated “A” by AM Best,
32+ Years In Business,
29 Consecutive Dividends.
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Deep Expertise

Decades of Experiences,
In-House Nurse Case Managers,
Renown Healthcare Partners.
Partnering With The Best

Committed To Injured Workers

Forging partnerships with agents, healthcare providers, and communities.

Builders Partners with Shepherd Center for Injured Workers.

Builders Partners with Shepherd Center for Injured Workers.

More Injured Worker Stories

84,000+

injured workers helped since 1992

25 Days Sooner

Our claimants return to light duty work 25 days faster on average

“

I had a work related injury, and the staff here have been super. Jan went above and beyond to help and make sure I was ok. I can’t thank her enough.

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frequently asked questions

Compliance, Coverage, and Cost for SC Businesses

  • Understanding Workers' Comp. in SC
  • Cost and Providers
  • Insurance Comparisons and Requirements
  • Excess and Surplus Insurance (E&S)
Workers' compensation in South Carolina is state-mandated insurance that pays for employees' medical treatment and lost wages when they suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. As defined by the South Carolina Workers' Compensation Act, this insurance protects businesses by creating a "no-fault" system where employers provide coverage for workplace injuries and, in exchange, cannot be held personally liable for workers' injuries or illnesses, preventing potentially costly lawsuits while ensuring injured employees receive necessary benefits.
In South Carolina, businesses that regularly employ four or more employees (including full-time, part-time, seasonal, and family members) are legally required to maintain workers' compensation coverage regardless of whether they already have other forms of business insurance. Exemptions exist for casual employees, businesses with an annual payroll less than $3,000, agricultural employees, and certain other specific categories; however, even exempt employers who voluntarily procure workers' compensation insurance will be considered subject to the Act until they formally file Form 38 to withdraw that election.
For contractors in South Carolina, workers' compensation requirements are determined on a case-by-case basis. General contractors may require subcontractors to carry workers' compensation insurance even if the subcontractor has fewer than four employees, as the general contractor could potentially be held liable for injuries to the subcontractor's employees. The South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission considers four key factors to determine contractor status: whether the employer controls the method of work, who furnishes equipment, the method of payment, and the employer's right to fire or discipline the worker.
Yes, private businesses with four or more employees (including full-time, part-time, seasonal, or family members) must carry SC workers' compensation insurance under Title 42 of the South Carolina Code. Exemptions apply only to agricultural workers, casual laborers, and businesses with annual payrolls under $3,000. Even exempt employers accepting coverage become bound by the Act until formally withdrawing via SCWCC Form 38.
Workers' compensation insurance covers three primary types of benefits: medical treatment related to workplace injuries (including doctor visits, hospital bills, prescription drugs, and medical travel expenses), wage replacement while the employee is unable to work (66.67% of average weekly wages up to state limits), and permanent disability benefits if the employee suffers lasting impairment. The coverage extends to occupational therapy, rehabilitation costs, and compensation for disfigurement, though it does not include payment for pain and suffering, which is a key distinction from personal injury lawsuits.
To file a SC workers' compensation insurance claim, you must first report your injury or illness to your employer as soon as possible—ideally within 24 hours, but no later than 90 days after the incident. Your employer is then responsible for filing the initial claim paperwork with their workers' compensation insurance carrier and the South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission. If your employer fails to file, or if your claim is denied or disputed, you may file your own claim by submitting Form 50 (for injury or occupational disease) or Form 52 (for workplace death) directly to the Commission within two years of the accident, diagnosis, or death. These forms are available on the Commission's website, and there is no fee unless you request a hearing, which costs $25. Always keep documentation of your injury, medical treatment, and communication with your employer to support your claim.
Premiums for workers' compensation insurance in South Carolina vary based on several factors including the business's industry classification, total payroll, number of employees, claims history, and implemented safety programs. For example, a roofing company might pay $12-$20 per $100 of payroll, while an office-based business could pay $0.30-$0.80. Businesses in higher-risk industries like construction typically pay higher rates than those in lower-risk sectors like office administration. Small businesses can reduce costs through inexpensive workers' compensation insurance strategies like pay-as-you-go plans, experience rating discounts, group self-insurance programs, and jobsite safety training. Small businesses with good safety records can generally expect more competitive rates, and many insurance providers offer payment plans to help manage costs throughout the year.
Builders Insurance is affordable, competitive, and tailored to your situation—it's not "cheap." Moreover, "cheap" insurance can cost you more in the long-run. The most cost-effective approach to obtaining workers' compensation insurance in South Carolina typically involves comparing quotes from multiple licensed insurance carriers, maintaining a strong workplace safety program to minimize claims, accurately classifying employees, and considering group self-insurance funds where available for your industry. Some businesses may qualify for experience rating discounts based on positive claims history, while others might benefit from pay-as-you-go options that base premiums on actual rather than estimated payroll, helping to avoid larger year-end audit adjustments.
The best SC workers' compensation insurance providers in South Carolina can be found through licensed commercial insurance brokers who specialize in business insurance, the South Carolina State Accident Fund which provides coverage for state agencies and is available to other employers, and private insurance carriers authorized to write workers' compensation policies in the state. For appropriate recommendations, business owners should consult with insurance professionals who understand their specific industry needs or contact the South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission for guidance on approved providers.
General liability insurance vs workers’ compensation insurance: General liability insurance protects South Carolina businesses against third-party claims for bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury, covering legal defense costs and settlements with customers, vendors, or visitors who are injured on business premises or due to business operations. In contrast, workers' compensation insurance specifically covers workplace injuries to employees regardless of fault, providing medical benefits and wage replacement while protecting employers from employee lawsuits related to those injuries – making the two policies complementary but serving different purposes.
For LLCs in South Carolina, workers' compensation insurance requirements mirror those of other business entities – if the LLC employs four or more individuals, it must carry workers' compensation insurance. LLC members (owners) may choose to exclude themselves from coverage, particularly single-member LLCs operating as sole proprietors, but they must still provide coverage for qualifying employees. The LLC structure itself doesn't change the fundamental workers' compensation obligations, though it may provide additional liability protection for the business owners in other legal contexts.
Many insurance carriers in South Carolina offer business owners package policies that allow bundling of general liability insurance with other coverages, though workers' compensation is typically written as a separate policy due to its unique regulatory requirements and pricing structure. However, purchasing multiple policies from the same carrier often results in administrative convenience and potential multi-policy discounts. Business owners should consult with licensed insurance professionals to explore bundling options that might create cost efficiencies while ensuring compliance with state requirements.
Builders insurance is competitive and tailored to your business—it’s not “cheap.” Furthermore, “cheap” insurance can cost you dearly. To find affordable general liability and workers' compensation insurance in South Carolina, business owners should request quotes from multiple licensed insurance carriers that specialize in South Carolina business insurance, consult with independent insurance brokers who can compare rates across different companies, and explore industry associations or chambers of commerce that may offer group rates to members. Additionally, implementing robust safety programs, accurately classifying employees, and maintaining a clean claims history are effective strategies for securing lower premiums over time.
While South Carolina law specifically mandates workers' compensation insurance for businesses with four or more employees, general liability insurance is not legally required but is highly recommended as a fundamental protection against third-party claims. Most business contracts, commercial leases, and client agreements require general liability coverage, and operating without it leaves businesses vulnerable to potentially devastating litigation costs. For comprehensive protection, South Carolina businesses should maintain both policies, as they cover distinctly different risks that most businesses face. For help deciding what coverage you need, please reach out to us for a quote, or let us put you in contact with your local insurance agent for friendly and expert advice.
To obtain excess and surplus (E&S) insurance in South Carolina, you'll need to work with a licensed surplus lines broker. E&S insurance covers risks that are too high or specialized for traditional insurance companies to underwrite. In South Carolina, only individuals (not agencies) can be licensed as surplus lines brokers. Your first step should be to contact your current insurance agent, who can either access surplus lines coverage if they hold a surplus lines broker license or connect you with a licensed surplus lines broker. Licensed insurance producers in South Carolina can offer surplus lines coverage without holding their own broker's license as long as they access it through a licensed surplus lines broker. If you need help finding an appropriate broker or agency, consider contacting Builders’ Specialty Team for a personalized assessment of your needs. Remember that E&S insurance is provided by non-admitted carriers that have more flexibility in their underwriting but are not backed by the state's guaranty fund, making it important to work with a reputable broker who can guide you through the process.

South Carolina Insurance Resources

Go beyond traditional insurance coverage with exceptional OSHA-authorized training, safety consultation, and resources designed to empower your workplace’s health and safety management.

  • General Resources
South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
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South Carolina Code of Laws
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South Carolina Department of Insurance
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