As one of the 33.2 million small businesses in the United States, you typically have plenty of options when it comes to general liability insurance providers. But with so many insurers in the market, identifying the best insurance company for your business isn’t always easy. Fortunately, there are a few insurers that stand out from the crowd. Here’s a look at the top general liability insurance providers for 2023.
The Hartford
The Hartford is one of the leading insurers in the nation, and it offers a wide array of coverage options. Small businesses can customize a lot of details about their general liability policy, ensuring the coverage genuinely meets their needs. Plus, you can purchase coverage through the website or work with an agent if you need some guidance. The claims process is simple, and The Hartford is known for offering excellent customer service.
Going with The Hartford can also make securing other types of business insurance simpler. The company has a variety of policy options, including a range of endorsements or supplemental policies you can use to create a bundle. However, the policy doesn’t usually take effect until the next day. While that isn’t a long delay, there are insurers that start the coverage faster.
Hiscox
Hiscox is an excellent option for small businesses and independent contractors, offering customizable solutions. Along with long-term coverage, Hiscox offers short-term policies that let companies get a policy for the duration of a single project. Plus, Hiscox offers monthly payment options that don’t come with fees that increase premiums, which is a benefit for smaller operations for which a lump sum isn’t practical.
You can get a quote online or call the company directly, letting you get help from a licensed agent. Once you choose a policy, the coverage is instantaneous. Plus, the claims process is simple. However, while it offers a range of coverage options, the available endorsements or policies aren’t as comprehensive as you may find elsewhere.
BiBerk
Backed by Berkshire Hathaway, BiBerk has an A++ rating from AM Best, showcasing its superior quality when it comes to handling its obligations to customers. It also uses an online-based approach that can provide quotes and lead to instant coverage, which is convenient, and the available policy options are reasonably comprehensive.
However, BiBerk doesn’t have some of the specialty coverage you may find elsewhere. As a result, it’s likely best for companies with very traditional business insurance needs. Additionally, its coverage options in some states are more limited than what other insurers may offer, so it won’t work for small businesses in specific locations.
Thimble
Thimble is an online-based option that’s simple to use when looking for coverage, and there are short-term and long-term policies available, which can make it a solid choice for independent contractors, too. Getting general liability insurance typically takes just a few minutes, and instant coverage is potentially available.
When it comes to drawbacks, the biggest is that the policy underwriting can involve one of several companies. As a result, the customer experience and claims-submission process can vary. Additionally, the online-only approach does limit your options for customer service, which works against anyone who prefers to handle those tasks over the phone or in person.
