General liability insurance protects you against claims if another person suffers an injury or damage within your property. It applies to businesses and offers protection business from any claims in the event of physical injury or damage to property. It is mandatory and a legal requirement in some states. General liability insurance may also be required for a business contract or rent. It can save you from expensive lawsuits in the event of an unfortunate accident or property damage.

General liability coverage
General liability insurance can also be called business liability insurance, or commercial liability insurance, which covers you and your business if there are claims that your products, services, or operations have resulted in bodily injuries or property damage. If you are operating in a rented property, it can protect you from any claim or damages to your property. If you have not yet purchased general liability coverage, you may have to pay for the damages and claims from your business expenses. General liability insurance covers the following claims:

• Bodily injury
• Property damage
• Copyright infringement
• Reputation harm
• Advertising injury

Apart from providing coverage for these claims, general liability insurance also covers administrative and legal expenses arising from such claims.

Claims not covered by general liability insurance
What general liability insurance covers or does not cover depends on the industry and the operations of a business. The 10 common exclusions are:

• Business premises not covered in the document
• Hazards not mentioned in the policy document
• Work of contractors
• Pollution
• Intentional bodily injuries or property damage
• Contractual liabilities
• Any physical injury or property damage to yourself
• Damage to your product
• Product recalls
• Data breaches or security breaches caused by mishandling of electronic data.

Best general liability insurance companies
Before choosing a general liability insurance company, compare premiums, ratings, policy limits, and the extent of commercial property coverage. Verify the deductibles you may have to pay. Higher deductibles may indicate lower premiums. You can also choose a standalone general liability insurance policy or buy one bundled into commercial property insurance as part of a Business Owner Policy.

The Hartford
The Hartford combines professional service, affordable premium, discount on products and services of partner organizations, excellent customer service, and multiple policy options for businesses. You can choose from a basic policy with extensive add-on options or industry-specific bundled policies. It is present in all American states except Alaska and Hawaii. The general liability limits are up to $4 million. Premium starts at a minimum of $250.

Hiscox
Hiscox is a century-old insurance provider specializing in products for small, home-based, and single-owner businesses. It offers general liability coverage for businesses like janitorial services or landscaping companies with less than 10 employees. It offers high coverage limits for basic claims and many add-ons, including employee actions, temporary staff, and business equipment coverage. Hiscox general liability insurance is available in all states except Alaska. Their general liability insurance limits can go up to $5 million. Their premium costs are at a minimum annual premium of $350.

Chubb
Chubb is a leading commercial insurance company that offers policies for small, medium, and large businesses. Companies can choose an exclusive general liability policy or one as part of Business Owner Policy, with an aggregate limit of $4 million. It can customize industry-specific coverage at different points.

Travelers Insurance
Travelers offer multiple insurance products, including commercial insurance. It bundles its general liability and property insurance as a BOP, called MasterPac. You can customize the bundle to choose your industry. Their coverage includes basic claims and coverage for data breaches, discrimination lawsuits, global exposures, and liquor liability. Travelers are highly suited for technology-related liability. Its aggregate limit is up to $4 million.

Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
Berkshire Hathaway GUARD is known for its strong financial standing and plans covering multiple industries. You can choose industry-specific policies and customize them further. Its aggregate limit is up to $ 6 million. It covers manufacturers, wholesalers, resorts and golf courses, etc.