What Is General Liability Insurance?
General liability insurance is the foundation of business protection. It covers the most common risks companies face when interacting with customers, vendors, and the public. At its core, it protects against third-party bodily injury, property damage, and certain personal injury claims. Without it, a single lawsuit could create financial strain or even force a business to close.
In New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, general liability is often required by landlords, lenders, and contractors as part of doing business. Refine Risk structures coverage that aligns with state requirements and your unique operations.
What Does General Liability Insurance Cover?
A standard general liability policy includes coverage for:
- Bodily Injury – Medical costs, legal fees, and settlements if a customer or visitor is injured on your premises.
- Property Damage – Repair or replacement costs if your business damages someone else’s property.
- Products and Completed Operations – Liability for damages caused by work you performed or products you sold.
- Personal and Advertising Injury – Protection against libel, slander, or copyright infringement claims.
- Legal Defense Costs – Attorney fees, settlements, and court judgments within policy limits.
What Does General Liability Not Cover?
General liability insurance is broad, but it does not cover every risk. Exclusions typically include:
- Professional Liability – Errors or omissions in professional services (requires separate E&O coverage).
- Employee Injuries – Covered under workers’ compensation policies.
- Commercial Auto Accidents – Requires a commercial auto policy.
- Property You Own – Covered by commercial property insurance.
Refine Risk helps makes sure your general liability policy integrates seamlessly with your other business coverages.
Who Needs General Liability Coverage?
Nearly every business benefits from general liability protection, including:
- Contractors and tradespeople – electricians, plumbers, and builders
- Retail stores, restaurants, and service businesses – frequent customer interaction
- Landlords and real estate investors – apartment complexes, office spaces, and commercial properties
- Professional service firms – law offices, consultants, and agencies
- Nonprofits and community organizations – liability for events, volunteers, and facilities
If your business deals with clients, tenants, or the public, general liability coverage is essential.
General Liability Coverage Examples
- A customer slips and falls in your store and requires surgery
- A contractor accidentally damages a client’s home while working
- A competitor claims false advertising in your marketing campaign
- A vendor is injured while delivering goods to your warehouse
These scenarios are common, and the financial consequences can be severe without adequate protection.
Benefits of Working with a Local Agent
Businesses in the Tri-State area face unique risks:
- New York – high litigation rates, strict premises liability laws, and costly settlements
- New Jersey – contractor and small business insurance requirements
- Connecticut – landlord and property-heavy exposures with strong tenant protections
Refine Risk advisors understand these regional dynamics. We design liability programs that meet local regulations while protecting long-term stability.
Advantages of Working with Refine Risk
- Tailored liability programs for businesses of all sizes
- Local Tri-State expertise with access to national carriers
- Annual reviews to adjust limits as operations grow
- Transparent comparisons across multiple carriers
- Dedicated advisory support during claims and audits
How to Get General Liability Insurance
- Schedule a consultation with a Refine Risk advisor
- Share your operations, contracts, and client requirements
- Receive tailored proposals with side-by-side comparisons
- Bind coverage and gain long-term protection
What you Should Know About General Liability Insurance
What is general liability insurance coverage?
General liability coverage protects businesses from third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal or advertising injury. It also covers legal defense costs.
What does general liability insurance cover?
It covers bodily injury, property damage, products/completed operations, and advertising injury claims that arise during business operations.
How much does general liability insurance cost?
Premiums depend on your industry, location, annual revenue, and payroll. Small businesses may pay a few hundred dollars annually, while larger operations require higher limits.
Is general liability insurance required by law?
While not always legally required, many landlords, clients, and contracts mandate it before doing business.
Does general liability cover independent contractors?
Yes, if they cause injury or property damage while working for you. Many businesses also require contractors to carry their own general liability policies.
Protect Your Business Today
Protect your business from everyday risks with general liability insurance tailored to NY, NJ, and CT. Request a consultation with Refine Risk today to build a coverage program designed for long-term stability.
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