INSURANCE GUIDE
General Liability vs. Professional Liability
General liability and professional liability address different types of allegations. Many businesses need to understand both because one policy does not automatically replace the other.
Quick answer
General liability generally focuses on certain bodily injury, property damage, and related premises or operations exposures. Professional liability generally focuses on allegations arising from professional services, errors, omissions, or negligence.
Think about the source
If a customer slips at your office, general liability may be the relevant policy. If a client alleges that professional advice or services caused a financial loss, professional liability may be the relevant policy.
Where each policy fits
A BOP may package general liability with property coverage for eligible businesses. Professional liability is usually a separate policy or coverage form tailored to the profession.
Why a business may need both
A professional office can have premises exposures and professional-service exposures at the same time. Contracts may also require one or both forms of coverage.
What to review
Compare covered operations, professional services, exclusions, defense costs, limits, deductibles, contractual requirements, and whether subcontractors or independent contractors are addressed.
Related resources
Coverage note: Insurance coverage varies by insurer, policy form, endorsement, limits, exclusions, and the facts of a claim. This article is general educational information and is not a substitute for reviewing the actual policy.
In this guide
- Premises exposures
- Professional services
- Why both may matter
- Contract requirements
Related coverage
Questions about this coverage?
Talk with ECLICK about your current policy, upcoming renewal, or the coverage you are comparing.