Insurance for a New Business
Make the insurance decisions that matter before signing a lease, hiring, buying a work vehicle or taking your first job.
Online quotes depend on eligibility and underwriting.
Let’s talk insurance.
Before signing a lease
Read the insurance provisions while you are evaluating the premises. Identify the property you will own, improvements you will pay for and the activities allowed in the space. The landlord’s building insurance is not a substitute for reviewing your contents or liability obligations.
Compare general liability with a Business Owner’s Policy rather than choosing solely by the policy name.
Before taking the first client job
Look at what you promise to deliver and the insurance requirements in the contract. A service business may need to discuss allegations about advice or errors, as well as injury or property damage. Send the exact insurance requirements early enough to resolve questions before the start date.
Read about professional liability and the practical questions for consultants, contractors and cleaning businesses.
Before hiring or buying a business vehicle
Describe the duties of the people you plan to hire and review workers’ compensation before their start date. If driving is part of the work, identify who owns the vehicles and how they will be used. Personal auto coverage should not be assumed to address every business trip.
Explore workers’ compensation and commercial auto as separate decisions.
Before choosing the lowest quote
Compare the activities described, insured property, limits and deductibles. Ask about exclusions that affect the work you intend to do. A cheaper premium is not a useful saving if the policy omits an important part of the business. Confirm the effective date before treating insurance as in force.
For additional consumer guidance, read the California Department of Insurance small-business guide.
Start with a clear description
For an initial conversation, share what the business does, where it operates and when you plan to begin. Keep sensitive identity, payment and medical information out of the website inquiry. Further application details can be requested through the appropriate process.
Find your industry and your city, or explore the online quote option.
Common questions
Can I start the insurance conversation before opening day?
Yes. Share the planned business and desired start date early. Whether coverage is offered depends on underwriting, and coverage begins only under the policy’s effective date and terms.
Does forming an LLC replace business insurance?
No. A business entity and an insurance policy serve different purposes.
What if I do not know my first year’s exact sales?
Explain that the business is new and provide reasonable estimates when requested, then review how the insurer handles updates or audits.
Does submitting the inquiry form bind insurance?
No. The form starts a conversation; it does not issue a policy or put coverage in force.