General liability and professional liability are different

General liability commonly addresses bodily injury, property damage, and certain advertising claims. Professional liability focuses on allegations that an error, omission, missed deadline, or inadequate service caused a client's financial loss.

Advice and expertise create exposure

Consultants, technology firms, designers, accountants, real-estate professionals, and many other service businesses may face this risk. Contracts can also require coverage before work begins.

Review how the policy responds

Compare covered services, exclusions, retroactive dates, defense costs, limits, and whether coverage is written on a claims-made basis. The policy should match the work described in your contracts and proposals.

Important

Coverage, eligibility, and plan terms vary by carrier and state. This article is general information, not a promise of coverage or individualized financial advice.