Insurance for a small business includes consideration of the basic requirements of workers’ compensation, professional liability, general liability, commercial vehicle insurance, product liability, and property insurance.
Worker’s Compensation
Small businesses in North Carolina that have three or more employee (even if only part-time) are required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance. An exception to this rule is made for agricultural employers. They are not required to carry workers’ compensation unless they have 10 or more full-time workers who are not seasonal workers.
Professional Liability
Self-employed individuals do not have to carry worker’s compensation insurance. However, if your work requires a license under North Carolina’s laws, you need to have professional liability insurance.
General Liability
This provides protection from claims against a business for property damage, injuries (like a “slip and fall”) and associated medical expenses. Every small business must have this protection to operate safely.
Commercial Vehicle, Product Liability, and Property
If any vehicles are used for the business these need to have commercial vehicle insurance. If the company makes or distributes any products, it should have product liability insurance. If the business owns or leases any commercial space, then it needs to have property insurance.
Home-Based Businesses
Home insurance will not cover business equipment and inventory or other business liability. Instead, a general liability commercial policy is needed and property insurance for the business that is based in a home.
The agents at Cross Creek Insurance, serving Hope Hills, NC and the surrounding area, can help with any insurance need for your small business. They will cover the basic insurance requirements as described above and then make suggestions about other types of protection that is beneficial to have.
Business Interruption
This protection helps pay the bills if the business shuts down due to some calamity. With the risk of natural disaster increasing due to weather changes caused by climate change, it is wise to have this protection.
Conclusion
Every business, especially a small business need adequate insurance protection. Work with your agent at Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Hills, NC by calling 910-423-2900 to get a quote for all your commercial insurance needs.