English 
Español 
In San Diego, you’ll often hear people refer to a business license as a Business Tax Certificate. While most businesses will need to obtain this certificate, it’s common to not have an actual business license. Although commercial insurance is designed for businesses, it’s important to know you don’t have to have a license to get a policy.
In fact, making sure anyone operating a business can potentially get insurance is essential for providing financial protection for both the owners and customers of companies in the state. Now that you know you can get insurance, it’s good to take a look at the types of commercial insurance your business might need and how to initiate setting up a policy.
Know the Risks within Your Industry
Even if you’re an independent contractor or sole proprietor, you never know when an accident could happen. For example, a general home repair provider might accidentally cause property damage or have someone fall over the equipment. Meanwhile, a freelance photographer or writer could face lawsuits regarding copyright infringement. Take some time to explore the different risks people face within your industry that might require insurance coverage to protect you from financial harm.
Plan to Get General Liability Insurance
At the very least, most companies need general liability insurance. This type of coverage protects your small business from the most common claims that come from others. You can also use this type of insurance to cover the legal costs for your defense if your business is sued. The two most common things this type of insurance covers are personal injuries and property damage. If your company makes products, this could also include covering losses related to defects or labeling errors.
Having general liability insurance also establishes credibility for your business. For example, new clients frequently request housekeepers and other service providers to furnish proof of insurance coverage. Being able to show a new customer you have insurance coverage could make the difference in being able to expand your company’s clientele.
Explore Additional Types of Commercial Insurance
A business may not have a storefront, but you could still have employees and vehicles you need to plan to cover. Workers’ compensation insurance is a must when you have people working for your company who could get hurt on the job. You can also get commercial auto insurance that covers accidents occurring during the course of conducting business for your company. Errors and omissions insurance along with cyber insurance are two more types to ask your agent about as you plan for financial coverage.
Prioritize Reviewing Your Policy as Your Business Expands
As a final note, you’ll want to remember small or new businesses constantly undergo changes that could impact an insurance policy at any time. You can use the renewal period to review whether you need to add new policies or coverage levels to the current plan. You’ll also want to use any major changes as a signal that it’s time to contact your insurance company to see if you need to update the policies.
Owning a business involves assuming certain kinds of risk, but operating without business insurance is a chance you shouldn’t take. For reliable, affordable commercial insurance as well as homeowners, renters, motorcycle, and auto insurance in Chula Vista, reach out to the experienced professionals from Altra Insurance Services. Call us today to find out how we can meet all your insurance needs.