I’m a licensed electrical contractor and I do not have to cover myself with workmans comp. Gotta cover the employees though but not myself. Being a contractor might be the difference. Also in my state you must be a licensed electrical contractor to offer your services as an electrician. All building contractors and also owner builder must use a licensee. Can’t pull a permit without it.
I’m in Massachusetts, at the bottom of our permits we have to sign under the penalities of perjury that we have both liabilty & workman’s comp or get Harry Homeowner to sign a waiver.
If you’re one of three bids but only you want the waiver signed - do you think you’ll get the bid in Mass, not likely - just pay the insurance (Again being the business owner you can never file for yourself) and move along.