What Is General Liability Insurance? A Small Business Must-Have
What Is General Liability Insurance? A Small Business Must-Have
Protection From Everyday Business Risks
Every business whether it’s a coffee shop in Atlanta, a contractor in Dallas, or a boutique in Phoenix—faces unexpected risks. Someone slips on your entryway rug. A product you sell causes injury. A client sues over property damage.
General liability insurance helps shield your business from the financial fallout.
At OnePoint Insurance Agency, we help small businesses across Georgia, Texas, Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Arizona, and beyond confidently cover the basics—so you can focus on growth, not damage control.
What General Liability Insurance Covers
Think of general liability as your business’s core shield. It protects against common risks that could otherwise cause serious financial setbacks.
Standard Coverage Includes:
Bodily Injury
Medical bills and legal costs if someone is injured at your business location.Property Damage
If you or your employees accidentally damage someone else’s property—covered.Personal & Advertising Injury
Coverage for claims of slander, libel, or copyright infringement in your ads or marketing.Legal Defense
Even if the lawsuit is baseless, your policy covers attorney fees, court costs, and potential settlements.Medical Payments to Non-Employees
Goodwill coverage that pays for minor injuries regardless of fault.
What’s Not Covered
While general liability insurance is broad, it won’t cover everything.
Exclusions:
Employee Injuries – You’ll need workers’ compensation insurance.
Professional Errors – For mistakes in services or advice, you need E&O (professional liability).
Auto Accidents – Get commercial auto insurance for business-use vehicles.
Intentional Acts – No coverage for fraud or criminal behavior.
Policy Limits:
Typical limits are $1M per occurrence / $2M aggregate, though higher limits are available.
Who Needs General Liability Insurance?
Nearly every business can benefit from it. You especially need it if:
Retail Stores & Restaurants – High foot traffic = high liability risk
Contractors & Tradespeople – Required to access most job sites
Consultants & Freelancers – Often needed for client contracts
Home-Based Businesses – Your homeowners policy likely excludes business liability
In many states, like Georgia, Texas, and Florida, local laws or lease agreements may require proof of coverage. OnePoint can help you meet those requirements quickly and affordably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does general liability insurance cover lawsuits?
Yes. It includes legal fees, settlements, and judgments for covered claims like bodily injury or property damage.
Is it required by law?
Not usually—but many landlords, clients, or vendors require it in contracts.
How much does it cost?
Typically $400–$1,500 per year for small businesses, depending on your location, risk level, and industry (source: Insurance Information Institute).
Can I bundle general liability with other policies?
Yes. Most businesses choose a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP), which includes general liability + property insurance at a lower combined rate.
Do you offer coverage in my state?
Yes! OnePoint provides general liability insurance in Georgia, Texas, Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Arizona, and nationwide.
How OnePoint Can Help
As an independent agency, OnePoint shops across top-rated carriers to match your business with the best coverage at the right price. We understand local laws and industry nuances—so you don’t have to.
We help:
Compare quotes for general liability coverage
Understand coverage limits and contract requirements
Add endorsements or bundle with a BOP
Grow your business without growing your risk
