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If you’re a small business owner, there are probably a lot of things that worry you. One of them might be the amount of liability insurance you should have, since facing a major lawsuit could mean losing everything you’ve worked for. This of course, is the worst-case scenario but even so, it’s better safe than sorry – and this situation is entirely avoidable with an umbrella liability and/or excess liability insurance policy

 

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What is Umbrella Liability Insurance?

Umbrella liability insurance is a type of coverage policy that works by extending the limits of multiple existing liability policies including general liability, professional liability auto liability and employer liability insurance. In addition to increasing current policies limits, umbrella liability also helps by filling in coverage gaps by covering some claims that primary policy might exclude.

 

So, if your business faces a lawsuit and you are liable for damages that are greater than the limits of your commercial insurance policy, an umbrella policy will help you to pay the remaining amount. That means you won’t have to sell any of your assets or use any of your savings to pay the additional expenses out-of-pocket. 

 

It’s important to note that umbrella policies are supplemental coverage, meaning you can’t purchase one without first having primary liability insurance.

What Does an Umbrella Liability Policy Cover?

Commercial umbrella liability policies work pretty much the same as traditional commercial liability policies. It also provides protection against the same types of risks. To be more specific, an umbrella insurance policy will give you supplemental coverage for the following:

 

  • Slip and fall injuries – If you have general liability insurance and also purchase commercial umbrella insurance. Your supplemental policy will cover any excess legal costs in the event that a third party sustains an injury on your company’s property.
  • Third party property damage – The addition of commercial umbrella insurance to a general liability policy will help to pay legal fees associated with the destruction or damage of third-party properties.
  • Car accidents – If you have a commercial auto insurance policy or a policy that covers hired and non-owned vehicles. Adding commercial umbrella insurance to those policies can help cover costs in the event that someone sues you for damages caused by one of your vehicles.
  • Employee injury lawsuits – Having an umbrella policy on top of employers liability insurance (which is typically included in workers’ compensation insurance) will help pay for employee lawsuits brought on by work-related injuries caused by employer negligence.

What Doesn’t Umbrella Liability Insurance Cover?

Although umbrella insurance can increase the liability limits of several other policies, it does not offer the complete safety net that a small business may require. Umbrella policies do not cover the following:

 

  • Damages within the primary policy’s limits – Umbrella liability insurance does not kick in until the limits of the primary policy have been exhausted. As with any insurance, it only covers things up to the policy’s maximum.
  • Business property damage – Damage to your company’s property due to things like fire, theft, or certain types of weather can be covered by the commercial property insurance included in a business owner’s policy (BOP) or commercial package policy (CPP). Umbrella policies are extensions of existing liability insurance and you cannot buy them separately for property.
  • Professional errors – Malpractice insurance, also known as errors and omissions insurance (E&O) or professional liability insurance, protects professionals from legal action stemming from their own negligence or those of their clients. Excess liability insurance, also known as excess E&O insurance, is very similar to umbrella insurance. You can use it to increase the limits of this type of policy. But umbrella liability insurance will not cover this type of negligence.
  • Employee theft – If you want to protect your company financially from employee theft or fraud against customers or clients. You’ll need commercial crime insurance, also known as a fidelity bond.

Who Needs an Umbrella Liability Policy?

In general, the more face-to-face interaction your business has with your clients and customers, the greater your liability risks. In addition, if your employees are using dangerous equipment or heavy machinery, your business faces even more risks. 

 

If the above is true for you, and you believe that the cost of a claim could exceed your liability limits, purchasing commercial umbrella insurance is something you should seriously consider doing. This coverage may be of useful for your business if:

 

  • You’re a general contractor and your client needs more coverage – Umbrella insurance is a stopgap measure for contracts worth more than $2 million. If you’re a general contractor, and your existing general liability policy has a $2 million per-occurrence limit, but your client contract requires a $5 million per-occurrence limit. You would add an umbrella policy with a $3 million per-occurrence limit.
  • You’re in contact with the public – The possibility of a customer sustaining a physical injury is increased when your establishment is open to the public. For instance, during business hours, wholesalers frequently use various pieces of machinery to restock the shelves of their warehouses. When using this kind of machinery in the presence of customers, there is a risk of injury. If someone gets hurt while on your property, you could be liable for expensive medical bills and lawsuits that exceed the limits of your general liability insurance. 
  • You do work off site – Working away from the physical location of your company can also increase the liability risk it faces. For instance, if your employees are performing work at the residence of one of your customers, there is an increased possibility of property damage. 

 

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The Cost of Umbrella Liability Policies

The range of umbrella insurance policies available is very broad, with a significant gap between the lowest and highest limits of coverage. This makes sense, since no two businesses share the same set of risks. There are businesses that choose to purchase $1 million in supplemental coverage, and businesses that might even choose to purchase $100 million or more in coverage. The amount of coverage you choose, as well as other factors related to the type of business you run, the amount of employees you have, and your annual revenue, will determine how much an umbrella policy will cost you.

 

With that being said, prices can vary widely even between seemingly identical businesses. And keep in mind that without knowing your business, we can’t give you exact quotes, so speak to an EZ agent to find out what you can expect to pay. But to give an example, let’s say your small business is looking for $1 million in coverage. With a $1 million policy, the highest premium costs average around $208 a month, or $2,500 for the year. Generally businesses with higher risks pay the most in premiums; this typically includes doctors, lawyers, and construction companies. On the opposite end of the spectrum, for less risky businesses such as cleaning services, you would pay around $33 a month. Or $400 for the year.

How Much Umbrella Liability Coverage Do I Need?

If you have a business that is contracted out by clients, and you have a contract with a client that requires a liability limit higher than $2 million, you will typically purchase an umbrella policy to meet that limit. It’s not unusual to see contracts worth $5 million or more. In that case, you buy a $3 million umbrella policy in addition to a $2 million primary policy. Otherwise, the amount of coverage you choose should be tailored to the specifics of your business and its industry.

 

Keep these three things in mind as you browse umbrella insurance quotes:

 

  • Your coverage should match your assets – To have enough coverage, your coverage needs to match your assets. So, if your entire company’s net worth is $1 million, that’s how much coverage you need.
  • Umbrella liability starts at a minimum of $1 million – You cannot purchase an umbrella liability policy with a coverage limit of less than this amount.
  • Umbrella liability coverage comes in increments of $1 million – You can only increase your liability coverage in increments of $1 million, allowing you to acquire precisely the amount of protection you need.

The Difference Between Umbrella Liability and Excess Liability

There is a common misunderstanding that commercial umbrella insurance and excess liability insurance are the same thing. You can purchase excess liability insurance to supplement your existing liability insurance policy. Your supplemental plan will only provide extra coverage to the specific plan you purchase it for, unlike umbrella liability insurance which can provide you with added coverage for multiple types of liability coverage. 

 

For example, if you buy excess liability for your general liability policy, it will only provide extra coverage for your general liability claim. On the other hand, if you purchase an umbrella policy, you will have extra coverage for all of your other liability policies in one supplemental policy.

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of umbrella insurance?

While umbrella insurance is a great way to supplement your current liability insurance it comes with some downfalls. These include the fact that adding an umbrella policy onto your current policy will increase your insurance premiums. Additionally, sometimes it’s required to increase the limits of your existing liability policy in order to qualify for umbrella insurance. 

 

Do I need umbrella liability insurance if I already have high coverage limits on my policies?  

Even if you already have high coverage limits on your existing liability policies, large lawsuits or claims can exceed your policy maximum limit. Umbrella insurance provides extra protection beyond your current policy limits, helping to pay for legal expenses, settlements and judgments, even if they are very expensive. 

 

Can I use excess liability insurance to cover multiple policies?

No, unlike umbrella insurance, excess liability simply extends the coverage of one specific policy. If you have multiple liability policies that you wish to extend, it’s worth looking into an umbrella liability policy instead. 

 

Get Business Insurance Today with EZ.Insure 

Get in touch with an EZ agent if you want to compare commercial insurance policies and prices quickly and easily. If you need assistance making sure your business has enough coverage, our agents are available to assist you at no cost. We’ll take a look at your long-term financial plans and insurance requirements, then recommend the best policies for you. 

To get started enter your zip code in the box below to get a free instant quote, or give us a call at 855-694-0037  to speak with a live agent.

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What is General Liability Insurance?

General liability insurance is important to have because it covers a wide range of common business hazards including, customer injury, customer property damage, and advertising injury. Additionally, general liability coverage is usually needed in order to qualify for a lease, loan, or to satisfy the terms of certain contracts. When you sign a commercial lease, for instance, a landlord can request to see a copy of your general liability insurance certificate.

What Does General Liability Cover? 

General liability insurance covers common liability claims made by third parties (people outside your business). If someone sues your business for physical harm, property damage, or advertising injury, this type of commercial insurance policy will pay for the defense costs. This includes everything from hiring a lawyer to paying for court-ordered judgements and settlements. Your commercial general liability (CGL) policy specifically offers protection for:

 

  • Third-party bodily injury – General liability insurance can assist in covering medical costs if a customer is injured in an accident at your place of business. If a customer files a lawsuit because of their injury, your policy will also pay your legal fees.
  • Third-party property damage – A general liability insurance policy will generally provide financial coverage in the event that your business or one of your employees unintentionally destroys or damages someone else’s property.
  • Product liability – Not all consumer or property damage takes place inside of a place of business. A company that produces, sells, or distributes goods may be held liable for any damage their products cause. The damage could be to people or property. Product liability insurance is a common feature of commercial general liability (CGL) policies, and aids in covering legal fees and other financial damages brought on by defective goods, incorrectly labeled products that cause harm to consumers, and other product risks.
  • Personal and advertising injuries – General liability insurance can assist in covering the costs of your legal defense, as well as any settlement or judgment that may be reached, in the event that you or your employee is sued for slander, libel, or copyright infringement.

 

What Doesn’t General Liability Cover?

On the other hand, there are several things a general liability policy won’t cover, so you will need to purchase other insurance policies to fully cover your business. The list of things that general liability will not cover includes:

 

  • Professional errors – Legal actions arising from professional errors, such as unfulfilled services and missed deadlines, aren’t covered by general liability, but should be covered by professional liability insurance, aka errors and omissions insurance (E&O).
  • Employee injuries – When an employee is hurt at work, their medical bills and disability payments are covered by workers’ compensation insurance, not general liability. In most states, any business with employees is required to have workers’ comp. For more information on workers’ compensation insurance, check out our workers’ compensation state-by-state pages.
  • Lost or damaged property – General liability will not cover lost, stolen, or damaged property, but you can bundle general liability with commercial property insurance in a business owner’s policy (BOP) and get coverage for the cost of replacing company property. Commercial property insurance also covers damage to commercial property caused by a fire or specific weather conditions.
  • Employee discrimination lawsuits – Employee claims of harassment, discrimination, and wrongful termination will not be covered by general liability but should be covered by employment practices liability insurance (EPLI), which also pays court costs.
  • Company vehicles – Business use is almost always excluded from personal auto insurance policies. The majority of states mandate that commercial auto insurance be carried on any vehicles owned by businesses.
  • Liquor Liability – Legal expenses resulting from situations involving customers who drank at your establishment are covered by liquor liability insurance. This can include reckless driving, physical violence, and vandalism. Businesses that serve alcohol must have this policy. You can either buy it alone or combine it with your general liability policy.

 

The Benefits of General Liability Coverage for Small Businesses

The majority of businesses need this insurance, particularly if they rent or own office or commercial space. And even if that doesn’t apply to you, small businesses that interact directly with clients and consumers will also benefit from general liability insurance, since this type of policy can keep your business alive if you’re sued by a client or competitor.

 

And it’s not just small business owners who should consider general liability insurance: independent contractors also benefit from general liability coverage. Independent contractors may be held legally responsible for customer accidents, customer property damage, or advertising injuries, just like any other small business owner, even if they don’t have a physical site or expensive equipment that would require a full business owner’s policy with commercial property insurance.

 

If you’re an independent contractor, you can also ask your clients to add you to their general liability policies as an additional insured if you don’t want to buy your own general liability coverage. As long as you continue to work for the client who purchased your insurance, you are covered. Remember that if your clients add you to their general liability policies, they may pay a higher insurance premium, and that your insurance coverage will terminate when the contract expires.

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How Much Does General Liability Cost for Small Businesses?

According to a recent Hiscox survey, the average monthly cost of a commercial general liability policy is $30. According to the report, only 1% of business owners pay more than $100 each month. And 95% pay less than $50. The cost generally varies based on five factors:

 

  1. Policy terms – Your general liability insurance premium is impacted by the policy’s coverage limits, deductibles, and other specifics.
  2. Your expenses – The higher your operating expenses, the higher your premium.
  3. Building size – Larger structures increase the likelihood of accidents occurring. Therefore, you might pay more if your business is located in a bigger building with higher foot traffic.
  4. Location – Businesses that are located in high-crime areas may have to pay more for liability insurance.
  5. Claims history – If you’ve previously made general liability claims, your premiums can go up. The more claims you’ve made, the higher your premiums.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does the law require small businesses to have general liability insurance?

Generally speaking, no, but particular businesses, including those in the cannabis and construction industries, may be subject to state mandates. You might also be required to have this type of insurance in order to apply for a professional license in your state, depending on the nature of your business. But it’s important to note that, although commercial general liability (CGL) insurance isn’t normally required by law, your landlord, mortgage lender, business partners, or clients may nonetheless require it. 

 

An ACORD certificate of insurance may be requested by a landlord or client to verify your company’s general liability insurance coverage. This document attests to your company’s capacity to manage any claims for property damage or personal harm. This certificate most importantly gives your property manager, bank, and clients peace of mind that they won’t be forced to foot the bill for a lawsuit against your business.

  • How much coverage do I need?

You’ll need to make sure your general liability coverage satisfies the necessary policy limits if you need to comply with the conditions of a contract or lease. In any case, you should aim for a level of coverage that corresponds to your company’s needs. Essentially, if you want to be sure that your coverage will cover legal expenses if you are sued. To evaluate your exposures and risk of financial loss, take into account the size of your business, the number of employees, and its business processes.

 

To give you a better idea of specific figures, most businesses choose a policy limitation of $1 million per incident and $2 million total. This means that the policy will pay up to $1 million to cover a single claim, with a lifetime (usually annual) limit of $2 million. With commercial umbrella insurance, you can expand your general liability insurance coverage if your company faces significant risks. And with umbrella insurance, your maximum policy limit is higher, allowing your insurance carrier to cover more expensive claims. With all that being said, you also need to make sure you can easily afford the deductible for your policy. In an emergency, your insurance won’t kick in to pay for your liability claim if you can’t afford to meet your deductible.

  • What differentiates general liability insurance from professional liability insurance?

Customer injuries, customer property damage, and advertising injuries are all covered by general liability. Disputes over the quality of professional services are covered by professional liability insurance. Almost all businesses require general liability insurance. But those that offer professional services require additional security against errors and dissatisfied customers. This includes professionals like accountants, attorneys, consultants, and insurance agents. All of which who can avoid costly lawsuits relating to the quality of their work thanks to this professional liability insurance.

 

For certain professions, general liability doesn’t cover libel, slander, and other advertising-related injuries. This includes those in the media and advertising. Instead, these businesses need professional liability insurance, specifically media liability insurance.

  • What types of businesses benefit from general liability?

The following business categories frequently purchase general liability insurance:

 

    • Small businesses/shops
    • Landscaping businesses
    • IT consultants
    • Real estate agents
    • Consultants
    • Marketing companies
    • Cleaning services
    • Independent contractors

 

Why Your Business Should Have General Liability Coverage

Without general liability insurance, dealing with judgements, settlements, and legal costs can be exceedingly expensive and can bring a company to its knees. Consider this: just an hour with a lawyer can cost more than $100. Additionally, court costs could approach $75,000 if the case goes to trial. But you might still have to shell out a few thousand dollars even if the judge dismissed the case. Your business runs the risk of going bankrupt if you don’t have general liability insurance. Additionally, if you don’t have general liability insurance, you can lose clients. Since they won’t do business with you without the proper protections.

Get General Liability Insurance with EZ.Insure!

Working with an EZ agent is the best way to buy your general liability policy. Our service focuses on each customer and creates a supportive environment throughout the shopping experience. Along with our personalized service, we provide immediate results. You will see your agent’s info, as well as your free quotes based on your needs, as soon as you submit a form. We want to help you make the best decision and maximize your savings. There is no hassle, no obligation to buy, and no more headaches, and it’s all completely free. To get started simply enter your ZIP code below or call one of our agents today at (855)-694-0047.

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General Liability vs. Professional Liability: What to Know

Consider this scenario: a client sues your company for inaccurate advice, or someone slips and falls at your workplace. Suddenly, you’re facing thousands of dollars in unanticipated legal fees—all as a result of a simple error or accident.

 

If you own a small business, protecting yourself from these dangers is critical. But do you know which form of insurance will protect you—general liability or professional liability? The answer could mean the difference between being fully insured and experiencing significant financial loss.

 

Let’s explore all you need to know.

 

"Person slipping on a wet floor near a caution sign, representing potential risks that general liability insurance can cover, as discussed in the article on general liability vs. professional liability.

What is General Liability Insurance?

General liability insurance (GLI) is a type of business insurance that protects against third-party claims involving bodily injury, property damage, libel and slander, advertising injury and reputational harm as a result of your business operation. General liability goes a long way in helping cover incidents by paying for legal defense and other court costs. 

Key Examples 

  • A customer slips on a wet floor in your shop and submits a claim for medical expenses.
  • You accidentally damage part of a client’s property while working on their site, resulting in costly repairs.
  • A competitor alleges you of using advertisements that damaged their brand, resulting in an advertising injury claim.

The Importance of General Liability for Small Businesses

Regardless of the industry that you’re in, general liability can greatly benefit your small business. By protecting your operation against the financial burdens associated with accidents, injuries, property damage, and more, your business will handle the unexpected with ease and remain successful into the future. 

Who Needs General Liability Insurance

General liability is essential for the majority of businesses but particularly those with physical location, or if businesses that deal directly with clients face-to-face. Think about businesses that could face claims involving property damage or physical injury, such as restaurants, retail stores, and contractors. 

What is Professional Liability Insurance? 

Professional liability insurance, also referred to as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance deals with claims resulting from negligence, misrepresentation, or inaccurate advice provided by your professional service. Unlike general liability, which focuses on physical risks (explained in the above section), professional liability is meant to protect service-based businesses where mistakes or advice could lead to financial loss. 

Key Examples

  • An architect makes a mistake in a building design, resulting in structural concerns and expensive repairs.
  • A consultant delivers poor business advice, resulting in financial losses for the customer.
  • An accountant makes an error in financial reporting, resulting in tax fines for the customer.

Who Needs Professional Liability Insurance?

Professional liability insurance is essential for service businesses that offer specialist knowledge or guidance. Consultants, accountants, architects, real estate brokers, and healthcare practitioners are more likely to face accusations of carelessness or error. This coverage protects them from financial loss as a result of errors or unmet client expectations.

Do You Need Both Types of Insurance? 

Combining Coverages

In some cases, businesses will need both professional and general liability insurance. Luckily most insurance providers offer bundled coverage options where you can get both for a discounted price. 

 

Here are a couple examples of business who benefit from both types of protection: 

  • Contractors and developers often provide advice in relation to project planning. This presents a need for professional liability insurance. On the other hand, since these professionals perform physical work on people’s properties, a general liability policy is also necessary.
  • Someone who’s a graphic designer may want to invest in both types as they probably invite clients into their office from time to time, but also want protection against errors made in their physical work. 

Cost of Not Having the Right Coverage

Without the proper insurance policy, your business risks major financial losses. For example, if you only have professional liability, and someone gets injured on your property, you’ll likely still have to cover their medical expenses out-of-pocket. 

 

Or let’s say you have general liability insurance, but no professional coverage, and you make an error when giving consulting advice. Unfortunately with no professional liability,  you may have to pay for the costs of a legal settlement stemming from the misinformation.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Liability Insurance

 

  • Business Size and Revenue: Larger organizations typically pay higher premiums due to increased risk and more exposure to large claims.
  • Industry: High-risk businesses, such as construction, may incur higher general liability expenses, whereas advice-based industries may have higher professional liability rates.
  • Location: Insurance rates vary by state and locality due to changes in laws and overall operational costs. For example, coverage in a big city may be more expensive than in a rural community. 
  • Coverage Limits: Higher coverage limits provide more protection, but also raise rates. Businesses that require extensive coverage may pay extra, depending on their risk exposure.
  • Claims History: A history of previous claims, indicates a higher risk and usually raises rates. 

EZ.Insure—A Quick and Affordable Coverage Solution 

EZ.Insure is the simple solution for your insurance needs, offering competitive business insurance rates and policies tailored to small businesses. With policies starting for as low as $24.95/month, your business can be equipped with a well-rounded liability insurance package, to ensure you’re fully protected without having to break the bank. 

How to Choose the Right Liability Coverage for Your Business

Steps to Consider

  • Evaluate Your Business Risks: Take the time to sit down and list out all of the potential risks that your business might face. Be sure to consider both physical incidents and professional errors. 
  • Consider Industry Requirements: Next, think about the typical insurance requirements in your specific industry. Based on industry norms, you should get a pretty good idea of what coverage(s) are necessary. 
  • Determine Your Budget: Evaluate how much your business can realistically afford to pay per month in premium costs. Then in turn, consider the level of coverage your business actually requires. While you never want to be under-insured, for a small business, a policy with a hefty coverage limit may not be necessary.

Consult with an EZ.Insure Expert

If you’re still unsure of which coverage type is right for your business, or if you need both, seek the help of an expert insurance agent at EZ.Insure. Working with a licensed agent ensures that no detail is overlooked in regards to your business, so that you’re matched with the most optimal policy type. They’ll also be there to help with every step of the enrollment process, and answer any questions about the selected policies details, so you walk away covered and confident! 

Don’t Leave Your Business Exposed—Get Covered Today!

Liability coverage is critical for protecting your organization from unanticipated hazards and costly lawsuits. Whether you require general, professional, or both forms of liability insurance, the appropriate policy will keep your organization safe and secure.

 

Ready to get started?  EZ.Insure is here to help! For a fast, free quote, simply fill out a form on our site, or give us a call at (855)-694-0047 today!

 

Looking for more information on securing your business? Check out our resource library, that’s home to tons of helpful articles all aimed to help small businesses succeed today and for years to come. 

 

Restaurant Insurance 101: Coverages Every Owner Should Have

Today you’ll discover the essential coverages that restaurant insurance offers:

 

Protection against expensive accidents.

 

Peace of mind for you and your employees.

 

And a competitive edge in the restaurant industry.

 

Let’s get started.

 

hefs working together in a busy restaurant kitchen, featured in a promotional graphic titled 'Restaurant Insurance 101: Coverages Every Owner Should Have' by EZ.Insure.

Restaurant insurance is a specific type of business insurance designed to meet specific requirements associated with the food and beverage sector. While it is similar to standard business insurance, restaurant insurance plans focus on protecting against the unique challenges faced in the service industry. This includes issues such as foodborne illness claims, alcohol-related incidents, equipment failures and much more. To combat these particular obstacles, restaurant insurance policies bundle a number of different coverage to form a well-round protection plan.

Types of Coverage Included in Restaurant Insurance

The majority of restaurant insurance plans offer a variety of coverage options, including:

 

 

Each of these policies plays a crucial role in covering your restaurant from great financial loss. 

 

But let’s dig a little deeper, to understand why each one is important in its own way. 

 

General Liability Insurance

Especially in a busy setting like a restaurant, whether we like it or not, accidents happen. In simple terms, general liability helps handle these accidents by covering you against injuries to customers or any damage to their property while on your property. For example, let’s say a customer walks to the bathroom and slips on some grease that an employee accidentally dropped. In this instance, general liability insurance helps by paying for their medical expenses and any legal fees if they choose to file a lawsuit. 

Property Insurance 

Think about what physically makes up your restaurant. This includes your building, the kitchenware, the furniture and any decorations. These are the kind of assets that are protected by property insurance if a natural disaster, fire, robbery or vandalism occurs. If your restaurant suffers from one of these incidents, property insurance provides coverage in the form of replacements or repairs, so you won’t have to pay out of pocket. 

Liquor Liability Insurance 

Does your restaurant serve alcohol? If yes, then you may be held responsible if accidents occur involving intoxicated customers. Whether it’s a physical injury, damage to your property, or even an auto accident occurring after leaving your restaurant, liquor liability coverage protects against these types of claims. More specifically it pays for any damage taking place on the premises and the cost of court if applicable. 

Group of people raising their glasses for a toast in a busy pub or restaurant.

Workers’ Compensation 

Since restaurants are fast-paced workplaces, it’s possible for employees to sustain injuries when they’re working. Medical costs and lost income are covered by workers’ compensation if an employee becomes ill or injured on the job. It is a crucial component of any restaurant insurance coverage because it is also mandated by law in every state except Texas. 

Product Liability Insurance 

As the owner of a restaurant, you are fully responsible for the food and beverages that you serve. If a customer has an allergic reaction or food poisoning as a result of anything they ate or drank, product liability comes in. It plays a large role in the protection of your financial well-being by paying for any medical or legal costs associated with the incident. 

Business Interruption Insurance 

Not only do unexpected events like fires and natural disasters have the potential to destroy your property, they can also shut down your business for extended periods of time. Luckily there’s a type of coverage to help when this sort of thing happens—Business Interruption Insurance. This insurance coverage helps by covering lost income if your restaurant is forced to close due to a covered event. Instead of risking having to close down permanently, with business interruption insurance, you’ll stay afloat and return to your business when the “down time” is over. 

How Much Does Restaurant Insurance Cost?

Infographic titled 'Restaurant Insurance: Factors That Influence Premium Costs,' outlining four key factors: location, size, type of food served, and annual revenue.

A number of variables affect restaurant insurance rates. Below is a summary of the factors that could affect your monthly premium:

  • Location: Higher premiums may apply to a restaurant located in a high-risk location, such as one that is vulnerable to severe weather.
  • Size: In general, businesses that employ more people and have larger properties pay more in monthly premiums.
  • Types of Food Served: If your restaurant sells higher-risk food items like sushi or other raw items the risk of foodborne illness increases, which in turn may increase your costs. 
  • Annual Revenue: Larger operations naturally present more risks, therefore restaurants with higher revenues may pay more in premiums.

 

Depending on the specific coverage needs of your business, monthly premiums vary quite a bit. With that being said, restaurant owners usually pay around $175 per month, or $2080 per year for a $1 million business owners’ policy (provides property, business interruption and liability insurance), according to Insureon.

How to Get the Best Restaurant Insurance Policy 

Finding the most suitable restaurant insurance policy is more than simply getting the lowest price; it’s also about finding coverage that meets your company’s specific needs. Here are some suggestions to help you get the perfect policy:

  • Customize Coverage Based on Your Needs: Since every restaurant is unique, your policy won’t be the same as the restaurant across the street. More specifically, look to find a policy tailored to your businesses specific risks. For example, if you don’t serve alcohol, then don’t invest in liquor liability insurance. However if you do, this coverage is a must. 
  • Check for Coverage Gaps: Be sure to carefully review each policy that you explore and compare, checking for gaps in coverage. Listing out your specific risks and corresponding coverage types ahead of time helps to ensure that nothing is missing.
  • Compare Quotes and Consult an Expert: Don’t settle on the first insurance package that you see. Instead compare a number of different options to find the one that fits your business best. EZ.Insure’s all-in-one platform makes it easy to consult with an insurance expert, view policies side by side, and get a quote all in a matter of minutes. This comprehensive approach ensures you can find a policy tailored to your restaurant’s unique needs.

Safeguard Your Restaurant Today

Having the proper insurance coverage is essential for safeguarding your business. Don’t wait until your company is in danger from an unforeseen circumstance. Now is the time to act!

Ready to take the next steps in securing your restaurant’s future? Get a free personalized quote today with EZ.Insure, so you can mitigate costly risks and keep serving customers with confidence. To get started, just fill out a quick form, or call us directly at (855)-694-0047. 

 

Looking for more actionable ways to ensure your business is protected against the unexpected? Check our resource library, where we have dozens of informational articles, all aimed at helping business owners save money and reach their goals!

 

The Importance of Product Liability Insurance for Your Business

Product liability insurance is an essential form of protection for businesses who produce, distribute or sell goods and products. Regardless of how careful you are when producing or selling items, accidents happen. If an accident does happen to occur and it involves injury, damage or defects relating to your product, you could be held liable. 

 

Fortunately, with the proper product liability insurance policy in place, you’ll instead be protected against the financial repercussions associated with the product-related claim. To help you get ahead of these types of potentially costly issues we’ve developed a simple guide explaining what product liability insurance is, risks it protects againsts, and why it’s so important for your business. 

What is Product Liability Insurance? 

Product liability insurance is a specific type of coverage intended to shield companies against lawsuits pertaining to goods they manufacture, sell, or distribute. These claims usually occur when a product injures a customer, damages their property, or has a flaw that results in harm. This insurance also covers the legal fees related to defending your company.

What Does Product Liability Insurance Cover?

Here are some of the main areas that product liability insurance generally covers:

 

  • Consumer Injuries: If a customer sustains injuries as a result of a flaw in your product’s design or function.
  • Property Damage: Product liability insurance pays for the necessary repairs if your product causes harm to someone’s property.
  • Defective Products: This insurance covers claims against your business if a product is defective due to a manufacturing error or incorrect labeling. 
  • Legal Defense: Attorney fees, court costs, and any other expenses associated with defending your company in a lawsuit are all included.
  • Payouts for Settlements: If your company is held accountable for an accident, the insurance pays for the settlement or additional compensation owed to the impacted parties.

Why Your Business Needs Product Liability Insurance

In today’s day and age, lawsuits are quite common. Even the smallest problem with a product can result in an expensive lawsuit. While it’s important to always operate your business carefully with the proper safety measures in place, unexpected errors still happen. Without the right coverage, costs could overwhelm your company so much that you’re forced to take out loans or even worse, shut down for good.

The Risks of Selling Products

A power outlet catching fire with a plugged-in cord

To help underscore the importance of product liability insurance, let’s examine some of the common risks involving products and goods. 

 

  • Manufacturing Defects: Production mistakes resulting in the sale of hazardous or flawed goods to customers.
  • Flaws in Design: Even when dealing with high quality materials and top-of-the-line engineering, design flaws are possible and can put users at risk of injury.
  • Inadequate Labeling or Lack of Warning: Accidents or injuries stemming from mislabeling, or missing safety warnings result in your business being held liable.

A study from the Insurance Information Institute found that the average cost of a product liability claim can range anywhere from tens of thousands to millions of d

ollars, depending on the severity of the damage. Without product liability insurance these costs have the potential to devastate your business, even if they’re on the low end of the average cost scale. 

How Product Liability Insurance Protects Your Business

This coverage serves as a financial safety net, covering the costs of legal defense, medical bills, and future settlement payouts. No matter if you’re a small or large business, the impact caused by product-related lawsuits can be extremely costly without the right insurance in place. Here are the main protections that product liability insurance offers: 

 

  • Legal Costs and Fees:  If a lawsuit is filed, the cost of legal representation can mount quickly. You won’t have to pay for your defense out of pocket thanks to product liability insurance, which covers these expenses. Also, product liability covers any additional lawsuit fees. 
  • Medical Expenses: If a consumer sustains injuries because of a flaw in your product, insurance pays for their medical bills
  • Settlements and Payouts: A product liability policy will also cover the settlement and payout costs, if your company is found liable for a product defect. 

Real-World Example: In 2017 there were multiple court cases involving exploding smartphone and electronic-cigarette batteries, where consumers were injured due to faulty equipment. In one case, the claims and defense costs totaled over $200,000. Luckily for the company at hand, their product liability insurance covered the expenses. 

How to Get Product Liability Insurance

A woman in a warehouse inspecting inventory on shelves while holding a clipboard

Getting product liability insurance for your business is a pretty straightforward process. First, you must consider the variables that affect your coverage. Insurance companies usually take the following factors into account when estimating premiums costs and the necessary level of coverage:

 

  • The Types of Products You Sell: Different types of products come with different levels of risk. For example, common household items like a table, come with far less risk than electronic or medical devices. If the products your company offers have high risk levels, it’s crucial to invest in product liability protection.
  • Sales Volume: The higher volume of products that you sell, means the higher chance that a product-related incident will occur. This increased risk may affect the cost of your insurance premium. 
  • Business Size: The size of your business may also affect the monthly premium cost for product liability insurance. In general, premiums will be cheaper for smaller companies in comparison to large corporations.

Once you’ve taken some time to consider these factors, the next step is to work with a trusted insurance provider such as EZ.Insure. EZ.Insure’s process makes getting matched up with a quote and quality insurance plan quick and simple. With the help of our coverage comparison tools and expert insurance agents , you can get the coverage your business deserves! 

 In a Nutshell

For business selling, manufacturing or distributing goods, product liability insurance is a must. This essential coverage shields your company from costly financial risks stemming from product-related claims. Whether it’s legal fees, settlement costs, or medical bills, product liability has got your back.

 

Just because you haven’t had any product-related accidents yet doesn’t mean they can’t occur. Instead of wondering what might happen, be proactive by preparing for the unexpected. To take the next steps and get a free product liability insurance quote, just visit EZ.Insure and enter your zip code, or call us directly at 855-694-0047.

Do You Need Home-Based Business Insurance? 5 Questions to Ask

There are many benefits that come with running your business from home. This includes convenience, flexibility as well as comfort. With all this being said, many home-based business owners don’t consider the risks associated with running an organization from their house. This poses the question — “Do I actually need insurance for my home-based business?”

 

While you may scoff at the question at first, thinking it’s unnecessary, the truth is that just like any other business, having the proper coverage provides essential protection safeguarding everything you’ve worked for. But don’t just take our word for it. Instead, to help you make an educated decision about your options, we’ll delve into five critical questions to ask yourself. When it’s all said and done, you’ll have a solid understanding of why home-based business insurance is so essential. 

 

 

Question #1: Do You Have Expensive Inventory or Equipment?

Infographic titled 'Do You Need Home-Based Insurance? 5 Questions to Ask Yourself' with five key questions listed.

One of the first things to think about is whether or not your home-based business involves inventory or expensive equipment. Your homeowners’ insurance probably doesn’t cover business-related objects in the case of damage, theft, or loss, even if you work from home.

 

Think about things such as your laptop, tools, technology or any other equipment that’s vital to your business operations. Then consider any inventory. Do you sell goods? If the answer is yes, these items could also be in danger without the proper protection. In the unfortunate case of a fire or break-in, you may have to replace these valuables out-of-pocket.

Why This Question is Important

  • Your operation relies on your inventory and/or equipment and without it your business is probably not functional. 
  • Without home-based business insurance, replacing these items may be very expensive or unaffordable.
  •  Homeowner policies alone usually don’t cover inventory or equipment losses.

Question #2: Do Clients or Customers Ever Visit Your Home? 

Do you ever hold meetings at your house office with customers or clients? If so, you might be putting yourself in danger for responsibility if an incident occurs. For instance, you can be liable for a client’s medical costs if they trip and fall on your property, leading to an expensive lawsuit.

 

General liability insurance covers property damage and physical injury claims made by third parties. Even if your place of business is your house, this type of coverage  it’s still necessary for any company that deals with clients or consumers face-to-face.

Why This Question is Important

  • Hosting clients without the proper home-based insurance leaves you liable in the case of an injury
  • General liability coverage will take care of the costs of lawsuits or claims relating to an accident, so you won’t have to pay out of pocket. 
  • Having general liability coverage puts clients at ease and bolsters your reputation as a responsible business owner. 

Question #3: Could a Lawsuit Affect Your Financial Stability? 

If you own a small business and are on a strict budget, a lawsuit could be extremely detrimental to your business. Even a small claim could have a huge negative impact. In addition to an injury-related incident, clients may also file lawsuits if they think you’ve committed a professional error or if they feel you failed to provide a promised good or service.

 

Unfortunately, the legal and court costs stemming from these types of situations can add up quickly and jeopardize your finances. That’s why it’s so crucial to consider investing in professional liability coverage on top of the general liability protection that we discussed above. 

 

Why This Question is Important

  • Small businesses suffer far more than large corporations in the result of lawsuits since they generally don’t have nearly as much funds or resources. 
  • Professional liability coverage takes care of legal fees, court fees, and other payouts associated with a business error. 
  • Without coverage, a lawsuit could be so expensive that you’re forced to sell your assets. 

Question #4: Do You Rely on Your Home-Based Business for Income? 

If your home-based business is your main source of revenue, you should think about how an unplanned disruption could affect it. What would happen if your home was damaged by a fire, a natural disaster, or some other unanticipated incident that prevented you from using it for several weeks or even months?

 

Business interruption insurance acts as a safety net paying for lost income during these unexpected down times. This coverage guarantees that, even while your business is recuperating you can continue to fulfill your financial and client obligations, pay your bills, and provide for your family.

Why This Question is Important

  • Without business interruption insurance, an unexpected event may force your business to shut down entirely, therefore bringing your income to a halt. 
  • This coverage oftentimes provides relief in the form of a new, temporary space to operate out of. 

Question #5: Do You Use a Vehicle for Business Purposes?

Smiling man wearing a cap sitting in the driver's seat of a white van.

While this question isn’t directly related to your home, many remotely-based entrepreneurs utilize vehicles in their day-to-day operations. Unfortunately, if you’re regularly using a car, truck or van for business purposes, your personal auto coverage probably won’t cover it.

 

Consider tasks such as delivery, client visits, or inventory transportation. If any of these are applicable to your company, and you aren’t properly covered, you’ll be financially liable for any accidents on the job. This is where commercial auto insurance comes in, protecting your business vehicle in the case of an accident during the work day. 

 

Why This Question is Important

  • When using a vehicle for purposes related to your business, personal car insurance policies will not be enough. 
  • If an accident occurs while you’re conducting business, you won’t have to pay out of pocket. 
  • Without commercial auto insurance, you’ll be held liable for any vehicle damage, personal injuries or lawsuits stemming from the accident. 

Final Thoughts on Home-Based Business Insurance 

If you run a business from the comfort of your house, investing in home-based business insurance is crucial. Even if you still aren’t sure whether it’s necessary for your organization or not, just review the five questions listed above. If your answer to any of these questions is yes, home-based business insurance is likely a smart investment.

 

It’s important to get ahead of potential risks before they actually take place. If you decide not to, it could cost you an exorbitant amount of money, or even your entire business. So don’t wait for any surprises, instead, take time to review your coverage options, and find a plan that best fits your small businesses needs. 

Visit EZ.Insure For Your Business Insurance Needs

We understand that shopping for business insurance isn’t fun and it can be confusing too. Luckily for you, there’s a platform that makes finding insurance quick and easy. We’re of course talking about EZ.Insure. At EZ we pride ourselves on the seamless, simple platform that we’ve built out. All you have to do is enter your ZIP code and in a few minutes you’ll be matched with a customized insurance quote for free! We also have side-by-side plan comparison tools so you can be sure to find the perfect coverage. To get started, fill out the form above or call us directly at 855-694-0047 to get started!

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