As a salon owner, protecting your business should be a top priority. General liability insurance is a crucial component of that protection. This article will cover everything you need to know about general liability insurance for salons, including requirements, coverage, costs, and best providers. Additionally, we’ll discuss the similarities and differences between general liability insurance for different types of salons, such as beauty, hair, and nail salons.
- 4 best general liability insurance providers for nail, hair, and beauty salons
- Are salons required to have general liability insurance?
- What does salon general liability insurance cover?
- Costs of general liability insurance for salons
- Ways to reduce salon liability insurance costs
4 best general liability insurance providers for nail, hair, and beauty salons
Many insurance companies offer general liability insurance for nail,hair, and beauty salons. After intensive research, here are the 4 best providers that we recommend:
- Simply Business: Best brokerage firm to compare several quotes from top-tier carriers
- NEXT: Best for a great digital experience and affordable rates
- The Hartford: Best for comprehensive coverage from one of the most reputable and ethical carriers
- Tivly: Best brokerage firm if you prefer working with independent and knowledgeable agents
Simply Business: Best brokerage firm to compare several quotes from top-tier carriers
Simply Business is an online brokerage firm that specializes in connecting salon owners with multiple quotes from leading insurance carriers. By offering a user-friendly platform and a wide range of insurance options, Simply Business makes it easy for salon owners to find the best coverage for their unique needs. Their knowledgeable agents can help guide you through the process of selecting the right policy and coverage limits.
Pros:
- Access to multiple quotes from top insurance carriers
- User-friendly platform for comparing and purchasing policies
- Personalized support from knowledgeable agents
Cons:
- Not a direct insurance provider, so you’ll be working with multiple carriers
- Limited control over specific policy details
NEXT: Best for a great digital experience and affordable rates
NEXT Insurance offers salon owners an innovative, digital-first approach to purchasing general liability insurance. Their online platform is designed to streamline the process of obtaining coverage, making it quick and easy to get a quote, purchase a policy, and manage your account. NEXT Insurance offers competitive rates and flexible coverage options tailored to the unique needs of salon owners.
Pros:
- Intuitive, digital-first experience
- Competitive rates and flexible coverage options
- Fast quote process and easy policy management
Cons:
- Not as well-established as some other insurance providers
- Limited to online interactions, which may not suit everyone
The Hartford: Best for comprehensive coverage from one of the most reputable and ethical carriers
The Hartford is a well-established insurance carrier known for its comprehensive coverage and ethical business practices. With a long history of serving businesses of all sizes, more than 200 years and more than 1 million business customers, The Hartford has the experience and expertise to provide salon owners with tailored general liability insurance policies. Their coverage options are extensive, and their customer service is highly regarded, making them a reliable choice for salon owners seeking quality insurance protection.
Pros:
- Reputable and ethical insurance provider
- Comprehensive coverage options tailored to salons
- Excellent customer service and support
Cons:
- Potentially higher premiums than some other providers
- May not be as agile in adopting digital technologies
Tivly: Best brokerage firm if you prefer working with independent and knowledgeable agents
Tivly is an independent insurance brokerage firm that specializes in working with salon owners to find the best general liability insurance policies. Their knowledgeable agents take the time to understand your unique needs and preferences and work with a range of insurance carriers to find the most suitable coverage for your salon. By offering personalized service and independent advice, Tivly can help you navigate the complexities of insurance and secure the protection you need.
Pros:
- Independent and knowledgeable agents offer personalized service
- Access to a wide range of insurance carriers
- Unbiased advice and guidance
Cons:
- Not a direct insurance provider, so you may work with multiple carriers
- The process may be slower than digital-first providers
Comparison of coverage, costs, and customer service
When selecting an insurance provider, consider comparing the coverage offered, premium costs, and customer service reputation. Reading reviews from other salon owners and consulting with an insurance agent can help you make an informed decision.
Tips for choosing the right provider of salon general liability insurance
- Understand your salon’s specific risks and insurance needs.
- Research the providers’ financial stability and reputation.
- Consider the ease of filing claims and the speed of the claims process.
- Look for providers that offer tailored coverage for salons.
Understanding general liability insurance
General liability insurance is the most popular policy for all small businesses because it protects small businesses from the most common lawsuits. If salon owners can only afford one insurance policy, it should be general liability insurance. If and when salon owners are required to show proof of insurance, or a certificate of liability insurance (COI), it is the general liability insurance policy that they need to present.
Definition and purpose
General liability insurance, also known as business liability insurance or commercial general liability insurance, protects your salon from third-party claims related to bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury. This type of insurance is essential for all businesses, including salons, to safeguard against unexpected financial losses due to lawsuits.
Similarities between different types of salons
General liability insurance is similar for different types of salons, including beauty, hair, and nail salons. The core components of coverage are the same, although the specific risks and claims scenarios may vary depending on the services offered by the salon.
Learn more at the best hair and beauty salon insurance companies; and the best nail salon and nail technician insurance
Key components of general liability insurance
General liability insurance typically includes coverage for:
- Bodily injury
- Property damage
- Personal and advertising injury
- Legal defense and settlement costs
Are salons required to have general liability insurance?
Salon owners may be subjected to different requirements to have general liability insurance. We explore the requirements from different perspectives below:
State-specific regulations and requirements
Each state may have different regulations and requirements for general liability insurance for salons. It’s essential to research your state’s specific requirements to ensure compliance. Some states may require specific levels of coverage or additional insurance policies, such as workers’ compensation or professional liability insurance.
Industry standards and recommendations
Even if your state does not require general liability insurance, it’s still a good idea to carry it. Many industry associations and organizations recommend that salon owners obtain general liability insurance to protect their businesses from potential lawsuits and financial losses.
Additional considerations for salon owners
Salon owners should also consider any requirements from landlords, lenders, or other parties who may require proof of insurance before entering into a contract or lease agreement.
What does salon general liability insurance cover?
General liability insurance protects salon owners from lawsuits related to the following areas:
Bodily injury
General liability insurance covers claims related to bodily injuries that occur on your salon premises. For example, if a client slips and falls in your hair salon or suffers an allergic reaction to a product used in your beauty salon, your insurance would cover their medical expenses and potential legal costs.
Property damage
This coverage protects your salon if you or your employees cause damage to a client’s property. For example, if a hair stylist accidentally spills hair dye on a client’s expensive handbag or a nail technician damages a customer’s smartphone, your insurance would cover the cost of repair or replacement.
Personal and advertising injury
General liability insurance also covers claims related to personal and advertising injury, such as slander, libel, or false advertising. For example, if your beauty salon runs an ad campaign that includes false claims about a competitor, your insurance would cover any legal costs resulting from a lawsuit.
Legal defense and settlement costs
If your salon is sued, general liability insurance can help cover your legal defense costs and any settlement or judgment amounts. This protection is vital, as legal fees and settlements can be expensive and potentially devastating for your business.
Common exclusions
General liability insurance does not cover everything. Common exclusions include intentional acts, professional services, and employee injuries (which are typically covered by workers’ compensation insurance).
Costs of general liability insurance for salons
The average cost of general liability insurance for salons is $85 per month, or $1,020 per year. Most salons pay between $39 to $176 per month for their $1M general liability insurance policy.
Below are the average costs of a general liability insurance policy for different types of salons:
| Salon types | The average costs of general liability insurance |
| Nail salon | $62 per month |
| Hair salon | $89 per month |
| Beauty salon | $106 per month |
These are just the averages. Your rates will be different. Be sure to shop around with a few companies or work with a top brokerage firm like Simply Business or Tivly to find the cheapest one for your salon.
Learn more at how much does salon business insurance cost
Factors affecting general liability insurance costs for salons
Several factors can affect the cost of general liability insurance for salons, including:
Size and location of the salon
The size and location of your salon can significantly impact the cost of your general liability insurance premiums. Larger salons with more square footage typically require higher coverage limits due to the increased risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, the location of your salon can influence the cost of insurance, as areas with higher claim rates or more expensive real estate may result in higher premiums.
Number of employees
The number of employees working at your salon also affects the cost of general liability insurance. As the number of employees increases, so does the risk of accidents, injuries, and potential claims. Insurance providers take this into account when determining your premiums. To keep costs down, consider implementing safety training programs and ensuring that all employees are well-trained and certified in their respective fields.
Services offered
The specific services offered by your salon can also impact your general liability insurance costs. Salons that offer a broader range of services, such as hair coloring, chemical treatments, or spa services, may face higher risks of accidents and liability claims. As a result, these salons may have higher insurance premiums than those offering more basic services. If you offer specialized or high-risk services, work with an insurance provider who understands the unique risks and can tailor coverage to meet your needs.
Claims history
Your salon’s claims history plays a crucial role in determining the cost of your general liability insurance. A history of frequent claims or large settlements can indicate a higher risk, which may result in higher insurance premiums. On the other hand, a clean claims history with few or no incidents can lead to lower insurance costs. To maintain a positive claims history, invest in risk management strategies, and prioritize safety in your salon.
Deductibles and coverage limits
Choosing higher deductibles and lower coverage limits can help reduce your general liability insurance premiums. However, it’s essential to balance these choices with the appropriate level of protection for your salon. Lower coverage limits may not be sufficient to cover the costs of a significant claim, while higher deductibles could create financial strain if you need to pay out-of-pocket for a covered loss. Consult with an insurance agent to find the right balance between cost savings and adequate coverage for your salon.
Ways to reduce salon liability insurance costs
- Bundling policies: Combining multiple insurance policies with a single provider can often lead to discounts on your premiums.
- Implementing safety measures: Investing in safety measures, such as slip-resistant flooring and proper storage of chemicals, can lower the risk of accidents and potentially reduce your insurance costs.
- Regularly reviewing coverage: Periodically reviewing your insurance coverage ensures you have the right protection in place and may help identify opportunities for cost savings.
Conclusion
General liability insurance is an essential protection for all types of salons, including beauty, hair, and nail salons. Understanding the requirements, coverage, costs, and best providers for this insurance will help you safeguard your business from potential financial losses due to lawsuits and accidents. Take the time to evaluate your salon’s specific needs and choose the right insurance provider to ensure your business remains protected and can thrive in the long run.
