Most businesses carry different types of liability insurance. In particular, businesses typically need general liability insurance and workers’ compensation policies. When you have multiple policies and feel your business is at greater risk of a lawsuit, purchasing a commercial umbrella insurance policy can provide additional coverage for less money. An umbrella policy covers several underlying liability policies to ensure you have the protection you need.
1. Determine your preferred level of protection
The first crucial step in securing the right commercial umbrella insurance is determining your preferred level of protection. Your preferred protection level will depend on your company’s net worth, risk profile, and budget. It’s essential to assess all aspects of your business’s financial standing, including assets that would need protection in a worst-case scenario. Once you decide the coverage level you need, start getting quotes from multiple insurance providers to compare them.
A thorough evaluation of your risk profile helps in understanding the extent of coverage required. Industries with higher public exposure or hazardous conditions, such as construction, retail, or manufacturing, may need increased limits compared to less risky sectors. Ensure that your chosen coverage level can sufficiently protect your business from potential high-value claims. By doing so, you can avoid being underinsured and risking significant out-of-pocket expenses.
2. Reach out to your existing insurance provider
One practical step toward obtaining commercial umbrella insurance is reaching out to your existing insurance provider. While shopping around is crucial, beginning with your current provider can be beneficial. When looking for commercial umbrella insurance, remember that you don’t have to buy this policy from the provider you used for other policies. However, your current insurance provider may offer discounts or policy credits to existing customers.
Getting a quote from your current provider can give you a benchmark against which to compare quotes from other companies. By discussing your options with your current provider, you may uncover additional benefits such as bundled discounts or enhanced services. This preliminary quote will serve as a reference point, making it easier to evaluate other offers and ensuring that you choose the best value and coverage for your business.
3. Contact your independent insurance broker if you have one
An independent insurance broker can be an invaluable resource in your search for the best commercial umbrella insurance policy. If you already have a working relationship with an independent insurance broker, reaching out to them may provide faster service than seeking out a new broker. If you don’t currently work with an independent insurance broker (one who partners with multiple insurance providers), find one and ask for at least three quotes.
Independent agents can give you insight into which providers have a better reputation for speedy claims processing and satisfactory claims resolution. They have a broader view of the insurance market and can offer you competitive options tailored to your specific needs. Their expertise in analyzing policy benefits and drawbacks across different carriers can guide you in making an informed decision that aligns with your risk management strategy.
4. Consider combining insurance policies with one provider
When shopping for commercial umbrella insurance, it’s ideal to consider combining insurance policies with one provider. It’s ideal to shop for umbrella insurance, general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance at the same time with new providers to see what type of package deal you can get. If you are unhappy with one or more of your current providers, this is a good opportunity to make a move.
Conversely, if one of your providers has given you particularly good service, you should explore moving other policies to that provider. In addition to the quote for commercial umbrella insurance, get a quote for all your insurance policies. Be sure to do this with every company you’re considering. Some might have a higher price on umbrella coverage but offer a much bigger discount if you bundle your policies. Bundled policies can simplify your administration process and often result in cost savings.
5. Compare your quotes based on cost, rating, and coverage
Most businesses need different types of liability insurance to protect themselves from potential financial risks. Generally, companies secure general liability insurance, which covers common lawsuits related to bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury arising from business operations. Additionally, businesses are required to have workers’ compensation insurance, which provides coverage for employees in case they get injured or fall ill while on the job.
However, for those businesses that feel particularly vulnerable to lawsuits or have multiple policies in place, another option is available to extend their coverage even further without breaking the bank. This is where a commercial umbrella insurance policy comes in handy.
A commercial umbrella insurance policy serves as a safety net, offering extra coverage above and beyond the limits of the other existing liability policies. It effectively bridges the gap by covering numerous underlying liability policies, ensuring broader protection. For instance, if your general liability insurance has a coverage limit and a claim exceeds that limit, the commercial umbrella policy kicks in to cover the additional amount.
By purchasing an umbrella policy, businesses can gain peace of mind and financial security, knowing they are adequately protected against potentially costly lawsuits that could otherwise jeopardize their operations. This extra layer of protection can be a crucial element in a comprehensive risk management strategy.