Table of contents
- What is General Liability insurance coverage?
- Does Maryland require General Liability insurance?
- What small business might need General Liability insurance in Maryland?
- How much does a General Liability insurance policy cost in Maryland?
- How NEXT helps Maryland small business owners
What is General Liability insurance coverage?
1.2 million workers in 635,000 small businesses in Maryland create a vibrant economy.1 From fast casual restaurants in Germantown to Baltimore-based home renovation contractors, most could use the protection that general liability insurance can offer.
If your business is accused of causing bodily injury or property damage, general liability coverage can help pay medical bills and cover the cost of repair or replacement. It can also assist with legal defense fees if you’re sued.
General liability also offers coverage for situations where you’re accused of causing advertising injury or reputational harm.
Does Maryland require General Liability insurance?
Maryland doesn’t have a law that mandates businesses to carry general liability insurance. But having coverage can help protect you from out-of-pocket costs when things go wrong.
Commercial general liability insurance is recommended because it can offer:
Licenses and permits
You may need a general liability policy to get a professional license if your business involves home improvements. Maryland requires general contractors, landscapers, carpenters and others to carry general liability coverage.
Financial protection
General liability coverage can help pay expenses and keep your business running after unforeseen events. If you’re accused of causing personal injury, damaging someone’s property or you have to defend your business in a lawsuit, it can help shelter you from the cost.
Business growth
Clients may ask for proof of insurance before they’ll let you bid on their project or hire you for a job. General liability coverage helps demonstrate your professionalism.
Options for leasing property
A general liability policy in the Old Line State can help you lease a warehouse, office, retail storefront or other commercial space. Many commercial landlords require a certificate of insurance and a minimum level of coverage before they’ll rent to you.
What small business might need General Liability insurance in Maryland?
Maryland requires general liability coverage by law for any contractors that do home improvements, including general contractors, painters, landscapers and carpenters, to be licensed in the state.2
Even if it’s not required in your profession, slip-and-fall injuries and property damage are common.
Most businesses, from bakeries in Bowie to pressure washers in Annapolis, might want to secure general liability coverage. It can help provide a financial safety net after common accidents like physical injury to a customer or guest, or property damage.
How much does a General Liability insurance policy cost in Maryland?
Your monthly premium for Maryland general liability will depend on your business operations and profession. When pricing policies, insurance carriers consider several factors, including:
- Where your business is located
- The kind of work you do
- How many employees you have
- If you have past insurance claims
The majority of NEXT customers pay $45 or less a month for their commercial general liability insurance.**
To learn how much you’ll pay, get a free instant quote from NEXT. It takes less than ten minutes, and you’ll be able to purchase your policy and get covered right away.
You can also use our general liability insurance calculator for an estimate of insurance costs in Maryland.
How NEXT helps Maryland small business owners
We offer a fast and easy way to get a free general liability insurance quote online, purchase coverage and instantly share a certificate of insurance. The entire process usually takes less than 10 minutes.
You can also chat with our Maryland–based NEXT licensed agents if you need help or have questions.
