Also known as commercial liability insurance, a general liability policy is important, because general contractors and landlords often require a policy before they hire you. The policy covers damages and legal costs associated with injury claims to customers and other people you don’t employ, damage to other people’s property that was caused by your business, and medical costs associated with these incidents. It also covers libel, slander, and copyright infringement.

This coverage can be purchased as an add-on to a general liability, professional liability (E&O), or BOP policy. It helps cover costs related to system hacks or data security breaches in which sensitive information has been stolen and fraud has occurred or there is a reasonable expectation that it might occur.

Commonly referred to as a business owner’s policy (BOP), it combines general liability insurance with coverage for your company’s property. You’ll get protection for the building you own, space you lease, and any property needed to run your business, while also receiving coverage for things like business interruption. This can replace lost income, as well as cover other costs associated with getting your business back up and running, such as the use of a temporary location.