Web Developer Business Liability Insurance

A General Liability policy is essential for web designers and developers, covering common risks that may arise in your line of work. It protects your business against third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, or advertising injuries.

For example, if a client visits your office and trips, this policy can cover medical expenses. Plus, it includes legal defense costs if you're sued for covered losses. It helps keep your business running smoothly by addressing these financial liabilities, so you don’t have to worry about sudden legal bills affecting your bottom line.

Coverage Under General Liability Insurance for Web Designers

Here’s what a General Liability policy typically covers for web designers and developers:

  • Third-party bodily injury: If a client trips at your office.
  • Property damage: If you accidentally spill coffee on a client's laptop during a meeting.
  • Advertising injuries: Protection against claims of defamation or copyright infringement in your marketing materials.

These examples show how everyday incidents can turn into expensive claims that a good policy helps cover.

Is General Liability Insurance Required for Web Designers & Developers

Some states and local governments mandate that businesses, including web design and development firms, carry this type of insurance, especially if you have a physical office or employees.

States like California, New York, and Florida may have more stringent requirements for small businesses. Even if it's not required, clients or project contracts might insist that you have liability coverage before working with you, so it’s always a good idea to check local regulations and client demands.

What Does General Liability Insurance Not Cover

While General Liability Insurance covers many risks, there are some things it won’t protect you against. For instance:

  1. Errors in your work: If you accidentally design a website that causes your client financial losses, General Liability won’t cover that. You’d need professional liability insurance for that kind of claim.
  2. Employee injuries: If one of your developers gets hurt while working, this type of insurance won’t cover it. Workers’ compensation insurance is required for those claims.

Other Insurance For Web Designers & Developers

Along with General Liability, web designers and developers often carry other types of coverage for more complete protection:

  • BPP Coverage: Covers your equipment like computers and software.
  • Surety Bond: Guarantees work completion, sometimes required in contracts.
  • Workers' Compensation: Covers employee injuries on the job.
  • Excess Liability: Extra coverage beyond your policy limits.
  • Professional Liability: Protects against claims of mistakes in your work.

For example, if a project deadline is missed due to an oversight, professional liability coverage would handle the claim, not general liability.