Commercial insurance options
Or, quote another product
Professional Liability Insurance
Liability protection for advice and services
What is professional liability insurance?
Professional liability insurance protects businesses that provide expert advice and services against claims of negligence or substandard work. It's also known as errors and omissions insurance (E&O).
Fields like law and consulting usually require professional liability coverage because their mistakes can cause financial or indirect loss for their clients. These incidents are typically excluded from other types of business insurance.
Choosing the right coverage can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help. Progressive Commercial is the trusted choice for professional liability coverage. Start a quote or talk to one of our expert agents to learn more.
What does professional liability insurance cover?
Professional liability insurance covers claims related to your business's services. It can pay for damages and legal defense costs up to your policy limits for issues such as:
- Negligence and other mistakes
- Incorrect advice
- Misrepresentation
- Copyright infringement
- Personal injury
- Failure to deliver a service
Explore how Progressive Commercial's professional liability coverage can help protect your business and build client trust.
What professional liability insurance doesn't cover
Small business professional liability insurance typically excludes:
- Property damage
- Bodily injury
- Intentional acts
- Contractual liability
- Employee injuries
- Cyber incidents
Understanding what professional liability insurance does and doesn't cover can prevent unexpected gaps in coverage. When you get a quote, review your options and consider adding coverages for more complete protection.
How does professional liability insurance work?
How professional liability insurance works depends on your policy structure. Most coverage is written on a claims-made form, which means the claim must be filed while your coverage is active.
You can add a retroactive date to include incidents or past work that happened before you bought the insurance, as long as the claim is made during your current coverage period.
Professional liability insurance can also cover work completed outside the United States. If you ever need to file a claim, contact your insurer. They'll explain the steps and let you know what information to have ready.
Who needs professional liability insurance?
Any small business that sells a professional service or gives advice should consider buying professional liability insurance. It can help protect against lawsuits caused by mistakes or negligence.
Some states legally require specific industries to have a policy before they can do business. Clients might also ask you to carry a specific amount of professional liability coverage as part of their contracts.
Many types of businesses benefit from liability insurance for professionals, including:
- Consultants
- Attorneys
- Engineers
- Architects
- Directors and officers
- Real estate agents
- Insurance agents
- Accountants
- Home inspectors
- Marketing firms
Browse business insurance by profession to see how professional liability coverage can protect your work.
How much does professional liability insurance cost?
In 2024, the national median cost of professional liability insurance through Progressive Commercial was $42 per month. The average monthly price was $66.
Understand the factors that influence the cost of professional liability insurance and explore ways to lower your premium. Keep in mind that starting a quote is the only way to learn your exact rate.
Why choose professional liability insurance from Progressive Commercial
Progressive Commercial has been protecting businesses like yours for over 50 years. We provide flexible coverage options and outstanding customer support. When you work with us, we'll help you get a professional liability insurance policy that's tailored just for you.
Start a professional liability insurance quote
The quickest way to get professional liability insurance is to start an online quote. You can also call us to speak with an agent. They'll help you identify which professional liability limits best match your small business and personalize a policy to meet your needs and budget.
Common questions about professional liability insurance
Is errors and omissions insurance the same as professional liability?
Yes. Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance and professional liability insurance are usually considered the same. These two terms can be used interchangeably.
Is a professional liability policy the same as indemnity insurance?
Professional liability is a type of indemnity insurance for businesses that offer advice and services. In general, indemnity policies refer to a wider range of scenarios and industries.
You can ask your professional liability insurance company for more information on the differences when you get a quote.
When is professional liability insurance required?
You might need professional liability insurance depending on your job, location, and clientele. Certain clients may require it before they agree to work with you. In some places, specific professions might also legally need this coverage. Be sure to check your business contracts and local laws.
What's the difference between professional liability and general liability policies?
Professional liability covers negligence related to advice and services. For example, it can protect a lawyer whose client sues for poor counsel or a consultant whose mistake causes financial loss.
General liability only protects against physical injury or property damage to a third party. For example, general liability could cover medical payments if a customer slips and falls on a business owner's premises.
Learn more about general liability vs. professional liability.
Will professional liability cover me even if the lawsuit is baseless?
Yes. Professional liability coverage can protect against unsupported negligence claims.
Does a professional liability policy cover employees and subcontractors?
Typically yes, but it depends on the employee type. Professional liability insurance protects your employees while they are on the job. However, subcontractors usually need their own professional liability policy.
Can Progressive Commercial help me get professional liability insurance in my state?
Yes. We can help you get business insurance, including professional liability, in all states except Hawaii. Browse business insurance by state.
More information
