Business insurance for the business you've built
From storefronts and salons to restaurants and contractors, we help business owners understand the coverage their operations may need.
What is business insurance?
Business insurance helps protect your company from financial losses caused by property damage, lawsuits, employee injuries, and other risks. The right mix depends on your industry, size, and whether you have employees, vehicles, or a physical location.
Many small businesses start with a Business Owner's Policy (BOP), which combines general liability and property coverage, then add policies such as workers' compensation or professional liability as needed.
Common coverage options
Availability and terms vary by insurance company and state. An agent can explain what applies to you.
- General liability
- Helps cover third-party injuries, property damage, and related legal costs from your business operations.
- Commercial property
- Helps protect your building, equipment, inventory, and furnishings after a covered loss.
- Business Owner's Policy (BOP)
- A package that commonly combines general liability, property, and business income coverage for eligible small businesses.
- Workers' compensation
- Helps cover medical costs and lost wages for employees injured on the job. Required for most Illinois employers.
- Professional liability
- Helps protect against claims of errors, negligence, or failure to deliver professional services as promised.
- Liquor liability and specialty coverages
- Coverage for specific risks such as serving alcohol, spoiled inventory, or equipment breakdown.
Businesses we commonly help
- Nail and beauty salons
- Restaurants and cafés
- Retail stores
- Contractors and trades
- Offices and professional services
- Cleaning and janitorial services
Benefits
- Help meeting lease, client, and licensing requirements
- Protection for property, equipment, and inventory
- Coverage for employee injuries where required
- One agency for several business policies
Things to consider
- Your lease or client contracts may require specific liability limits or additional insured wording.
- Accurate payroll and revenue estimates help avoid premium adjustments at audit time.
- Business vehicles usually need a commercial auto policy, not a personal one.
- Salons and restaurants may need specialty coverages such as professional or liquor liability.
Business Insurance questions
What insurance does a small business need?
It depends on your industry, whether you have employees, and whether you own or lease property. Most start with general liability, and many add property and workers' compensation. An agent can review your operations with you.
Do you insure nail salons and restaurants?
Yes, we help salon and restaurant owners explore coverage options. Availability depends on the insurance companies and your specific operations.
Can I get a certificate of insurance?
Once a policy is issued, we can help you request certificates of insurance for landlords, clients, or vendors.
Do I need workers' compensation?
Illinois generally requires employers with employees to carry workers' compensation, with limited exceptions. Confirm your obligations with an agent or the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission.
Explore other coverage
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Umbrella, motorcycle, boat, RV, long-term care, and other specialty coverage.
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Questions about business insurance?
Request a free quote online or call a SureLine agent. There's no obligation to buy.