The key to finding discount liability insurance is to know what you
need from your general liability policy and what to ask for. Here are
several tips to help you find discount liability insurance that doesn’t
sacrifice valuable coverage:
Find a Good Fit
- Comparison shop among at least three general liability insurance
companies. This step will help you determine which company offers
the best price for similar coverage.
- Check with the professional
associations/organizations you are a member of for information about
discount liability insurance available through that group.
- Ask
about a “package policy.” Many types of
businesses are eligible for a business owner’s policy (BOP) – a
type of insurance that combines valuable property and liability coverages.
Such a policy may offer a tremendous savings over purchasing the same
coverages separately.
Coverage, Coverage, Coverage!
The only way to truly identify the right policy is to compare
business liability insurance coverage. A policy with a lower premium and more restrictive coverage
is not really a discount – it’s a gamble. You should:
First, check the coverage limits and know which types of losses
they are applicable. Additionally, ensure that the limits satisfy
any contractual obligations your business has, e.g., a landlord requiring
certain limits of liability or a general contractor who requiring higher
liability limits to perform a job.
Second, review the policy language for information about who is
covered under the policy as well as any exclusions. A policy that
does not cover the people you need it to cover (i.e., employees, partners,
etc.) or losses common for your type of business (i.e., a plumber needs
liability coverage for water damage) may not be worth the risk just
to save a little money.
Certificates
Some businesses need frequent proof of liability coverage to satisfy
the requirements of those with whom they do business. This proof is furnished
in the form of a certificate issued by the insurance company or an authorized
representative of the company, such as an insurance agent.
Before purchasing a discount liability insurance policy inquire about
the insurance company’s capacity to furnish certificates quickly
upon request. A company that makes and backs up this guarantee may be
worth be worth a few extra dollars.
Invasion of the “Additional Insured”
There are times when a manufacturer, property owner or other entity
will require you to add them as an “Additional Insured” on
your general liability policy. This practice may require additional premium.
If you know this will be a common practice for your business be sure
to ask how much it will cost (some companies will charge more than others)
as well as any limitations.
Learn more about business insurance from NetQuote – get your
free business insurance quotes today.