Many individuals still don’t understand the concept of general liability insurance. This is unfortunate because it’s an important type of coverage that protects people and property in many different ways.
In this article, we’ll share with you what commercial general liability insurance entails and the right individuals who can benefit from this type of insurance policy.
What Is General Liability Insurance?
General liability insurance is a form of insurance that protects businesses against lawsuits for injuries or damage caused by their products or operations. It’s designed to cover any claims made against a company for bodily injury or property damage.
Who can benefit?
1. Small business owners
The first group to benefit from general liability insurance is small business owners. These types of policies provide protection for your business when you’re sued for damages caused by your product or service. If someone sues you for personal injury or property damage, they could be awarded compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering, and more. A general liability policy will protect you if you’re found liable for these kinds of things.
2. Landscape companies
Another group that can benefit from a general liability policy is landscaping companies. Many homeowners have lawns and gardens that need regular maintenance. When you hire a landscaper to maintain your yard, you may be able to sue them for injuries or damages if something goes wrong. However, most states require landscapers to carry general liability insurance. This means that you won’t have to worry about being held responsible for anything that happens on your property.
3. IT consultants
This group also benefits from general liability insurance. You might work as an independent contractor helping other people set up computers or networks. If you make a mistake while doing so, you could be held liable for any resulting damage. A general liability insurance policy protects you from such situations.
4. Real estate agents
If you sell real estate, you can use a general liability policy to protect yourself. For example, if you sell a house that has termites, you can be sued for not disclosing that information before selling the home. Your insurance provider would pay out any money awarded to the homeowner.
5. Consultants
A consultant is someone who provides advice or guidance to others. They might help you find a new job or give you career advice. If you’re sued for malpractice, negligence, or fraud, the general insurance provider will defend you.
6. Marketing firms
You might run a marketing firm that helps businesses promote themselves online. If you do this kind of work, you can be sued if you fail to disclose all of the risks involved. A general liability insurance plan will protect you from such suits.
7. Janitorial services
You might clean houses or offices. If you cause harm to anyone during the cleaning process, you could be sued for negligence. Most janitorial services must carry general liability insurance.
8. Artisan contractors
An artisan is someone who works with his hands. He might create furniture, build cabinets, or paint walls. If he makes a mistake, he could be held liable for causing damage to another person or thing. A general liability policy protects him from such legal action.
9. Cleaning companies
Cleaning companies often perform jobs like carpet cleaning, window washing, or floor scrubbing. If they accidentally spill chemicals or water onto someone, they could be sued for negligence. General liability insurance covers them in case they get sued.
10. Construction companies
Construction companies sometimes build homes or commercial buildings. They might install windows or roofs, lay tile floors, or erect scaffolding. If they make a mistake, they could be held liable for the resulting damage. A general insurance policy protects them from such lawsuits.
11. Home improvement companies
Home improvement companies can be sued for many reasons. For example, if they install faulty wiring, they could be held responsible for fires started because of it. Or, if they install a toilet that leaks, they could be sued if someone gets sick from using it. General liability insurance protects them from such situations.
12. HVAC companies
HVAC companies can be sued for several reasons. If their equipment malfunctions, they could be held accountable for any resulting damage. If they install faulty ductwork, they could be sued. And, if they install a furnace that doesn’t heat properly, they could be sued again. With general liability insurance, they are protected against these kinds of claims.
Conclusion
Many businesses and industries need general liability insurance. It’s important to know what type of business you own so you can choose an appropriate policy. You’ll also want to consider whether you need workers’ compensation coverage as well.
