Which company offers the best commercial insurance?

That is a question without a single best answer, as the "best" commercial insurance company depends entirely on your specific business needs, industry risk, location, and priorities (cost vs. customer service).

No single company is the best for every type of business. However, based on industry analyses and customer satisfaction ratings, several companies consistently lead the market for small businesses.1

Here is a breakdown of top-rated providers, categorized by the area where they excel:

🏆 Top Commercial Insurance Providers by Category

CompanyBest ForKey Strengths Relevant to Your BusinessThe HartfordBest Overall Small Business InsuranceExcellent financial strength (A+ rating) and a wide range of products, including comprehensive Business Owner's Policies (BOPs). Has a strong focus on small to mid-sized companies.Progressive CommercialCommercial Auto and FlexibilityThe largest commercial auto insurer, but also offers a full marketplace of other policies. Excellent for businesses (like yours) that rely heavily on vehicles for transport.NEXT InsuranceOnline/Digital Experience & SpeedBuilt for modern, digitally-native small businesses. Known for fast online quotes, instant policy binding, and immediate Certificates of Insurance (COIs)—a major benefit for contractors needing quick proof of coverage.TravelersFinancial Stability & Professional LiabilityOne of the oldest and most financially stable carriers. Often highly rated for its Professional Liability (E&O) and frequently works through independent agents, which is beneficial for complex, dual-operation risks like yours.biBERK (Berkshire Hathaway)Direct-to-Business SavingsOperates on a direct-to-consumer model, which can potentially lead to savings of up to $20\%$. Appeals to business owners who prefer a streamlined, digital-first experience.HuckleberryWorkers' CompensationFrequently highly rated for its digital approach and competitive pricing for Workers' Compensation, which is a mandatory and high-cost item for your light installation business.

Factors to Consider for Your High-Risk Business

Given that your business involves a low-risk operation (casual labor) and a high-risk operation (light installation involving heights), you need a carrier that specializes in certain areas:

1. Risk Appetite: You need a carrier that is willing to underwrite high-risk construction/contracting work. Many standard carriers may refuse or cancel policies for businesses that involve roofing or high-ladder work. This is why you must shop specifically for carriers known to work with contractors.

2. Split Classification Expertise: The best agent will be one who knows which carrier will offer a dual-classification policy, allowing you to pay the high rate only on the payroll associated with the Christmas light work.

3. Claims Handling: For a contractor, claims (General Liability for property damage, Workers' Comp for employee injury) are inevitable. A carrier with an excellent claims reputation (fast, fair, and responsive) is worth a higher premium, as a slow claim can halt your business operations.

🔑 My Recommendation

Instead of looking for the "best company" overall, you should focus on finding the best independent commercial insurance agent.

An independent agent works with multiple carriers (like The Hartford, Travelers, Liberty Mutual, etc.) and can shop the market for you.2 They can specifically target the carriers that specialize in high-risk contracting and that have a high "appetite" for split-classification risks like yours, giving you the best chance of obtaining a successful policy and the most competitive pricing.

Would you like me to help you search for a list of reputable independent commercial insurance agents in your local area?