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State files updated Oct 27, 2026
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Iowa contractor license bondInsurance and workers' comp

A $25,000 surety bond is required only if your principal place of business is outside Iowa (or you show you are prequalified with the Iowa DOT).1 Iowa does not require general liability insurance to register.1

Bond and insurance by trade in Iowa

TradeBondInsuranceWorkers' comp
General contractorA $25,000 surety bond is required only if your principal place of business is outside Iowa (or you show you are prequalified with the Iowa DOT).1Iowa does not require general liability insurance to register.1You must comply with Iowa workers' compensation law and give evidence of coverage every year, or show you are exempt under Iowa Code 87.11 or state that you are not required to carry coverage.1
PlumbingSurety bond min $5,000 (out-of-state contractors per summary).2Public liability required.2Proof of WC and unemployment insurance compliance.2
HVACSurety bond min $5,000.3Public liability required.3Required.3

Bond and insurance rules for electrical and roofing: check with Electrical Examining Board / State Fire Marshal (electrical), Iowa DIAL.

How much is the contractor bond in Iowa?

A $25,000 surety bond is required only if your principal place of business is outside Iowa (or you show you are prequalified with the Iowa DOT). In-state contractors do not need a bond.1

What general liability insurance does Iowa require?

Iowa does not require general liability insurance to register. You must provide workers' compensation coverage evidence (or a statement that you are not required to carry it).1

Can an Iowa contractor be exempt from workers' comp?

You must comply with Iowa workers' compensation law and give evidence of coverage every year, or show you are exempt under Iowa Code 87.11 or state that you are not required to carry coverage. You must also hold an Iowa unemployment insurance account number, even with no employees.1

What is a certificate of insurance?

It's the one-page summary (usually an ACORD 25 form) a contractor's agent issues to show the policies, limits and dates in force. How to read and check one

Sources

  1. Iowa DIAL: bond (dial.iowa.gov, 2026-10-27)
  2. Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board: plumbing bond (dial.iowa.gov)
  3. Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board: HVAC bond (legis.iowa.gov)