Business Insurance
General Liability Insurance
Core third-party protection for businesses of every size and industry.
General Liability insurance is the foundation of any business insurance program. It protects your business from the financial impact of third-party claims for bodily injury, property damage, and personal or advertising injury — covering both defense costs and damages so you can operate with confidence.
Coverage Details
What Does General Liability Cover?
Bodily Injury
Claims from a customer, vendor, or visitor who is injured on your business premises or as a result of your operations.
Property Damage
Accidental damage your business causes to someone else's property in the course of your operations.
Personal & Advertising Injury
Claims of libel, slander, copyright infringement, or invasion of privacy arising from your advertising or business activities.
Products & Completed Operations
Claims arising from products you sell or work you've completed that causes injury or property damage after the fact.
Legal Defense Costs
Coverage for attorney fees, court costs, and other legal expenses — regardless of whether the claim has merit.
Medical Payments
Immediate payment for minor injuries to third parties on your premises, regardless of fault — helping avoid larger claims.
Eligibility
Who Needs General Liability?
- Retail stores, restaurants, and service businesses
- Contractors and construction companies
- Consultants and freelancers working on client premises
- Manufacturers and distributors
- Landlords and property owners
- Virtually any business that interacts with the public or clients
Why Choose CIIB
The CIIB Advantage
- Competitive comparison quotes from multiple A-rated carriers
- Coverage options for all industries and business sizes
- Up to 40% potential premium savings through market shopping
- Bundling options with other coverages for additional savings
- Annual policy reviews to ensure coverage keeps pace with your business
FAQ
Common Questions
Is general liability insurance required by law?
Most states don't require general liability by law for all businesses, but many landlords, clients, and licensing boards require it as a condition of doing business. Contractors are frequently required to carry it before starting a job.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?
A COI is a document that proves your business carries insurance. Clients, landlords, and general contractors often require a COI before working with you. Your CIIB policy comes with the ability to issue COIs quickly.
What limits of general liability should I carry?
The most common limits are $1 million per occurrence / $2 million aggregate. However, higher-risk industries or contracts with larger clients may require higher limits. We'll help you find the right level of coverage.
Can I bundle general liability with other coverages?
Yes — a Business Owner's Policy (BOP) combines general liability with commercial property coverage, often at a lower combined premium than purchasing separately. Ask us about BOP options for your business.
Ready to Get Covered?
Compare rates from multiple A-rated carriers and find the right policy for your needs.