[sphelps]

Depends on the industry and being an independent contractor is much different and how much revenue you bring in makes a difference. Typically more revenue means a more reliable and established company so less risk and cheaper insurance. I'm still a contractor now and I pay way less for insurance as an engineer even though the projects I work on now have WAY more at stake and the risks and danger are much higher, we're taking million dollar projects now compared to a few grand at most before.

It's pretty stupid really but aquarium maintenance and that industry in general is a blank for most people, go the bank and ask for a loan to open a fish store or anything related, you won't get it unless you have a ton of assets but ask for one to open a pizza store and you'll have no problem.

Also yes the additional liability would be significantly cheaper, same for virtually any insurance.

Way off topic now but the point is you don't need someone insured or bonded as that really only protects the contractor anyway, not yourself. Livestock would never be covered under any insurance company and your home insurance will cover you in most cases. All you really need is someone you trust, I'd always opt for a friend or fellow reefer over one of these "companies".