General Liability Insurance
General Liability Insurance for Los Angeles Businesses
If you own a business in Los Angeles or anywhere in California, general liability insurance is one of the most important policies you can carry. It helps cover legal costs, settlements, and medical bills when someone claims your business caused harm—whether that’s a customer slipping on your floor in West Hollywood or a contractor accidentally damaging property on-site in Burbank.
This isn’t just protection—it’s often a requirement in contracts, leases, and client agreements across LA County. From Venice to Pasadena, businesses rely on liability coverage to operate with confidence.
What Does General Liability Insurance Cover?
This policy—often called
commercial general liability (CGL) insurance—covers the most common third-party risks, including:
Bodily injury
Medical bills and legal costs if someone is hurt on your property or job site
Property damage
Damage you or your employees cause to another person’s property
Legal defense
Attorney fees and court costs, even if you’re not at fault
Personal and advertising injury
Claims like slander, libel, or copyright use in ads
Whether you’re running a storefront in Silver Lake or managing a mobile business in the Valley, these risks are real—and a single claim can be financially devastating without the right policy.
Why Every California Business Needs Liability Coverage
Most small business liability coverage isn’t just good sense—it’s part of doing business. Commercial leases across Los Angeles often require proof of general liability insurance. So do many vendor agreements, event permits, and city licenses.
Even if it’s not required, it’s highly recommended. Lawsuits in California can quickly exceed $100,000. General liability helps keep your business afloat when something goes wrong.
Coverage Limits & What’s Not Included
Your liability policy will include limits—typically $1 million per occurrence, with a $2 million aggregate per year. Depending on your business size, location, and risk level, we’ll help you determine what’s appropriate.
Not included in general liability:
Employee injuries
(covered by Workers’ Compensation)
Damage to your own property
(see Commercial Property Insurance)
Professional mistakes
(e.g., legal or consulting errors—may require separate coverage)
Auto accidents
(see Commercial Auto Insurance)
If you need higher coverage limits, we can layer on a Commercial Umbrella Policy for added protection.
Get the Right Coverage with Derian Insurance
We’ve helped California businesses get reliable GL insurance for decades. Whether you run a small shop in Culver City or a growing operation with multiple locations, we’ll customize a plan that checks every box.
We often bundle general liability into a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP), combining property and liability coverage into one affordable package. It’s perfect for smaller operations and helps simplify your insurance life.
Plus, we don’t disappear after the policy is signed. If you’re asked to provide proof of insurance to a landlord or vendor, or need help navigating a claim, our local team is ready to step in.
Common Questions About General Liability Insurance
What does general liability actually cover?
It covers third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and certain personal injury claims like advertising injury. It also pays for legal defense costs.
How much liability insurance do I need?
That depends on your industry, location, and contract requirements. Many small businesses carry at least $1M/$2M. We’ll help you find the right limit.
Is GL insurance required by California law?
It’s not mandated by law, but it’s often required in contracts, lease agreements, or permits—especially in Los Angeles.
Can I get proof of coverage for my landlord or vendor?
Absolutely. We’ll issue a certificate of insurance quickly, and update it if your needs change.
Request a Quote for General Liability Insurance in Los Angeles
Whether you’re just starting out or reviewing your current policy, Derian Insurance can help you get affordable and reliable business liability insurance in California. Reach out for a free quote today—and protect what you’ve built.