Overview
Commercial general liability (CGL) covers claims that your business operations, premises, products or completed work caused bodily injury or property damage to someone else. It also covers certain personal and advertising injury claims, such as libel, slander or copyright infringement in your advertising.
Landlords, general contractors, clients and lenders routinely require proof of general liability before they'll sign a lease or contract with you.
What It Covers
Bodily Injury
A customer slips in your shop or is injured by your work.
Property Damage
You or your crew damage a client's property while working.
Products & Completed Operations
Claims arising from products you sell or work you've finished.
Personal & Advertising Injury
Libel, slander, false arrest and copyright infringement in your advertising.
Medical Payments
Small no-fault medical bills for injured visitors, which can prevent lawsuits.
Legal Defense
Attorney fees and court costs for covered claims.
Who Needs It
- Contractors and trades
- Retail shops and restaurants
- Offices and professional service firms
- Trucking and logistics companies with terminals or yards
- Any business that signs leases or contracts
What Affects Your Price
- Industry and class of business
- Revenue and payroll
- Location
- Claims history
- Limits and deductible
- Subcontractor use
Roy's tip: General liability does not cover your vehicles, your employees' injuries, or professional mistakes. Those need commercial auto, workers' comp and professional liability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What limits are typical?
$1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate is the most common structure and what most contracts require. An umbrella can add more on top.
What's a certificate of insurance?
A one-page summary proving you have coverage. Clients and landlords ask for them constantly. We issue certificates quickly, including additional insured wording when your contract requires it.