For general contractors
What does HatBench cost?
Requesting a sub is free for GCs. No subscription and no bidding fees.
Who is behind HatBench?
HatBench is run by Insureaze Insurance Solutions, LLC, a licensed California insurance agency (CA Lic. #0M82333) that works with contractors. More about us.
What is Sub Check?
A free lookup at hatbench.com/sub-check. Type a California contractor license number and see license status, classifications, workers' comp and bond on file with the CSLB, with the date we downloaded the data. No login. It doesn't show general liability, and it isn't a rating of anyone's work.
Do you keep the license numbers I look up?
No. We use the number to look up the public record and show you the result. We don't save which licenses anyone checks.
What does "Verified by Insureaze" mean?
It means three facts were true on the day we checked: the sub's CSLB license was active, and their general liability and workers' comp were in force through the dates shown. It's not a rating of their work.
How fast will I hear back?
We match each request by hand and ask the sub first, so it depends on the trade and area. We'll reach out directly once we know who's available. If it's urgent, call (800) 897-8221.
Which trades and areas do you cover?
California only. Most common trades, including concrete, framing, drywall, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, painting, flooring, tile, roofing, landscaping and more. If your trade isn't in the list, mention it in the scope.
Do I still need a certificate of insurance?
Yes. Always get a certificate naming you, with the additional insured and waiver wording your contract requires, before the sub starts.
Will my details be sold or posted?
No. We share your request with the subs we're introducing you to, and that's it. See the privacy notice.
I lost my matches link. What now?
Call us at (800) 897-8221 and we'll resend it. The link is private to you, so don't post it publicly.
For subcontractors
Is there a public list of subs?
No. GCs only see a sub when it matches a job they asked about, and only if that sub opted in.
How do I opt in?
Insureaze clients opt in from the Insureaze client portal (Back Office, "Get work through HatBench"). Everyone else: call us at (800) 897-8221. Details.
What will a GC see about me?
Your company name, CSLB license status and classification, the dates your GL and workers' comp run through, the counties you work in, and anything else you choose to share, like your phone or a short description.
Can I turn it off?
Yes, any time. GCs stop seeing your business right away.
Do I have to take every job?
No. We ask you first, every time. Saying no is fine.