General Liability Insurance

What it can help address

General liability may respond to specified third-party bodily injury, property damage and personal or advertising injury claims arising from business operations. Whether a claim is covered depends on the actual policy, exclusions, limits and circumstances.

A customer’s covered injury at a business is a different exposure from damage to the business’s own inventory. Liability insurance does not automatically insure the property you own.

What to compare beyond the premium

• Covered operations: confirm the insurer understands your products, services and locations.
• Limits: review per-occurrence and aggregate limits and how they apply.
• Defense and exclusions: ask how defense costs are handled and which claims are excluded.
• Other policies: consider property, professional liability, commercial auto and workers’ compensation where relevant.

Certificates and additional insureds

A landlord or customer may ask for a certificate of insurance. The certificate summarizes evidence of coverage; it does not change the contract. Additional insured protection depends on the policy wording and applicable endorsements.

Bring your contract to an agent before promising that its insurance requirements are satisfied.

Three common questions

Does it replace professional liability?

No. Claims involving professional errors or omissions can require different protection.

Does a BOP include every risk?

No. A Business Owners Policy commonly packages eligible property and liability coverage. Eligibility, coverage and exclusions vary.

When should I review my policy?

Review after adding employees, services, locations, products or major contracts. Tell your agent about operational changes.

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