Best Catering Insurance

Did you know catering can be a risky industry?

Caterers encounter similar risks to those faced by other food service enterprises. Performing tasks that involve sharp and hot objects, transporting trays filled with food on slippery surfaces, and various other scenarios can increase the risk of physical harm.

Acquiring appropriate business insurance can help mitigate these risks. Keep reading to learn why caterers need insurance, how much it costs, how they can get cheap coverage, and more.

Examples of the Best Catering Insurance Companies

You might already know how important catering insurance is and just want to evaluate your options. Before we dive into the details, let’s look at a few of the best catering insurance companies.

6 of the Best Catering Insurance Companies at a Glance

• CoverWallet: Ideal for catering businesses seeking multiple insurance quotes from one source
• NEXT: Perfect for caterers who favor online transactions
• Simply Business: Great for catering businesses seeking a straightforward application process
• State Farm: Ideal for those who prefer dealing directly with insurance agents
• The Hartford: Excellent for catering businesses seeking a Business Owner's Policy (BOP)
• Thimble: Perfect for catering businesses that can't wait for coverage

6 of the Best Catering Companies in Depth

CoverWallet

CoverWallet is an online insurance broker that streamlines the acquisition and administration of insurance for companies across many industries. It concentrates on presenting customized and cost-effective insurance choices for each business's unique needs.

This company provides a swift and effortless method for busy caterers to obtain multiple insurance quotes in one location. You only need to submit a single application, and CoverWallet checks with its network of insurance providers to collect quotes. The entire process can take less than 10 minutes.

If fast access to insurance coverage, an easy online application, 24/7 proof of insurance, flexible catering coverage, and affordable premiums are essential to you, then CoverWallet might be worth exploring.

NEXT

NEXT Insurance has been offering personalized insurance policies for small businesses since 2015. The company provides coverage options for liability, automobile, and workers' compensation through its user-friendly online platform. To ensure speedy service, NEXT Insurance uses artificial intelligence to process applications quickly—the process takes less than 10 minutes to complete. The company also offers 24/7 access to insurance certificates and in-house support for claims, making it easier for clients to manage their coverage. While live support is only available between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT, a virtual chat assistant is available after hours.

If your catering business requires specialized coverage, talking to an agent can help you determine if NEXT can provide the type of coverage you need.

Simply Business

Simply Business, a digital insurance broker, was established in 2005 and has headquarters in Boston and London. The company is committed to safeguarding the efforts of entrepreneurs who establish businesses by providing personalized insurance coverage solutions for various business types. Simply Business prides itself on furnishing tailored insurance policies that cater to each customer's unique needs.

This company is renowned for its convenient online application process and customer service. It makes it easy to apply for coverage online or to get help from a representative over the phone. Additionally, Simply Business allows you to compare multiple quotes and buy catering insurance in minutes. With many satisfied customers, Simply Business is a trusted choice for insurance coverage.

State Farm

State Farm is a well-established American insurance company and has been around since 1922. In addition to offering home, auto, renters, and life insurance, the company also provides business insurance policies tailored to each business's specific requirements.

This company is distinguished by its extensive network of local agents who provide customized customer service and assistance, which is ideal for those who want a personal touch. In fact, you'll need to work with one of their agents if you want to get a quote or purchase coverage. If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you might be better off with another insurance provider.

State Farm's online capabilities are somewhat limited compared to some other insurance providers. While you can view your list of policies and pay your bill online, you may not have access to all the features and tools other companies offer. Nonetheless, State Farm makes up for this limitation by providing exceptional personalized customer service through its extensive network of local agents.

The Hartford

The Hartford is an experienced insurance provider that has been offering insurance services for over two centuries. The company provides a comprehensive range of insurance products for businesses of all types and sizes.

What distinguishes The Hartford from other insurance providers is their exceptional customer service. It has a team of seasoned experts who are committed to providing policyholders with the best possible support and assistance.

The Hartford is perhaps best known for its adaptable and personalized BOPs. Unlike other insurers that only offer general liability and property coverage, The Hartford's BOP also includes business interruption insurance. For catering business owners, this can be a significant benefit, as it replaces lost income if the business has to close temporarily as a result of a covered event, such as property damage. Additionally, The Hartford's BOP allows for the inclusion of other coverages, such as data breach coverage and commercial flood insurance, that a business may require at an affordable price.

Thimble

Thimble caters to businesses that need coverage on the go, and it offers customers complete control over their insurance coverage. With Thimble, small businesses of any size can purchase a policy that meets their specific needs. They can choose coverage for a year, a month, or even for a single job, and they have the flexibility to modify, pause, or cancel coverage as needed.

The company offers insurance policies that are underwritten by other insurance companies. Therefore, if you need to file a claim, you'll need to contact the specific insurer that provided your coverage.

Thimble's customer support is only available online, and both email and chat options are available. However, this may not be the best option for catering business owners who prefer to receive support over the phone.

Why Do Caterers Need Insurance?

Catering is a gratifying profession, but it comes with a significant amount of liability and operational risks. Some of these risks include food-borne illnesses, food spoilage, machinery damage and breakdown, worker accidents, and business property damage.

Having catering business insurance can help protect you from these risks by covering the costs related to damages and legal fees.

What Types of Business Insurance Do Caterers Need?

General liability

General liability insurance protects against various claims, including physical injury and property damage. Without general liability insurance, these costs could add up and put your business at risk of financial ruin.

This type of insurance can be a lifesaver for catering businesses facing lawsuits, provided the coverage is in place before the lawsuit occurs. One such instance where this coverage can come in handy is when a customer sustains injuries while at a catering event. If the customer sues the catering business for damages, general liability insurance can protect the business from having to pay any damages awarded in the lawsuit.

Product liability

Product liability insurance covers the costs associated with any claims that may result from serving food, including settlements, court expenses, and legal fees. For example, if someone claims your company’s catered food made them sick and they sue, your product liability insurance can cover any damages and fees you would otherwise have to pay out of pocket.

Liquor liability

Liquor liability insurance is important coverage for businesses that sell, serve, or distribute alcohol. It can protect against claims of injury or property damage caused by an intoxicated customer after being served alcohol. You can purchase this type of insurance as a standalone policy or as an amendment to a general liability insurance policy.

Commercial property

Commercial property insurance covers your company's physical assets from any damage incurred as a result of unexpected and destructive events. This type of coverage typically includes protection for your company's physical location, office equipment, inventory, furniture, and any other materials your company uses for its regular business operations.

Caterers usually require kitchens and expensive equipment to ensure their operations run smoothly. If a catastrophic event occurs, commercial property insurance can cover the repairs and replacements necessary to restore the business to its pre-loss condition.

Workers’ compensation

Workers' compensation provides employees who become ill or injured on the job with both medical benefits and pay. This coverage also shields business owners from potential civil lawsuits brought by affected workers. In the unfortunate event of an employee's death as a result of a work-related injury or illness, workers' compensation can provide death benefits to the employee's family.

In some states, catering businesses with employees must have workers’ compensation insurance to operate legally.

Commercial auto insurance

Commercial auto insurance protects vehicles used for business purposes, including those used by caterers. Personal auto insurance policies don't typically cover accidents that occur while using the vehicle for business purposes. This means if you're delivering food to an event and get into an accident, your personal auto insurance policy may not cover the damages. However, commercial auto insurance can provide the necessary coverage.

Professional liability insurance

Professional liability insurance, which is sometimes referred to as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, can help protect your catering business from legal expenses in case a client claims they suffered a financial loss due to poor services. This type of insurance can cover errors, such as incorrect menus, forgotten orders, and missed events.

What is Catering Liability Insurance?

Caterer insurance is a type of insurance that meets the unique needs of a catering company. The most sought-after coverage for a catering business is catering liability insurance, which covers the potential liabilities a catering business may face. This policy is considered a bundled policy and can include some or all of the previously mentioned coverages.

How Much Does Catering Insurance Cost?

Keep in mind that the information about the cost of catering insurance is often provided by insurance companies themselves. As a result, their advertised price may be biased to make their coverage options appear more attractive, but caterers may get formal quotes through a company's online quoting process. It's essential to shop around for catering insurance, as rates can vary.

What Factors Affect Catering Insurance Costs?

• Business income: The income of the catering business may be used to determine the appropriate level of coverage needed.
• Business operations: The way a catering business operates, such as the number of employees and the type of events it caters to, can impact the cost of insurance.
• Business property and equipment: The value of the catering business's property and equipment, such as kitchen equipment and delivery vehicles, is an important factor.
• Foods and services offered: The type of food and services a catering business offers can affect the insurance premium because some foods and services may carry a higher risk than others.
• Insurers: Different insurers may have different methods of calculating premium rates, so gathering quotes can help you save money.
• Policy limits and deductibles: The maximum payouts and the deductible selected by the catering business can influence the cost of insurance.
• The amount of desired coverage: You can expect to pay more if you want higher levels of coverage.
• Types of insurance purchased: The specific types of insurance purchased, such as general liability or workers' compensation, can affect the cost of catering insurance.
• Bundling and other discounts: Some companies may offer discounts for bundling multiple policies, payments in full, or for other reasons.

How Do I Get Inexpensive Catering Insurance?

• Adhere to all safety standards: Reducing the likelihood of accidents or injuries can lower your chances of dealing with claims and litigation.
• Ensure you have the appropriate coverage: By getting the right coverage levels, a company can avoid paying for coverage they don't need.
• Obtain multiple insurance quotes and compare them: This can help you get the coverage you need at an affordable price.

Get the Best Catering Insurance Today

As a catering business owner, you understand the value of protecting your investment. While you may have insurance coverage, is it the best policy for your unique business needs? Getting the right catering insurance can offer peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen events, such as property damage, accidents, and legal claims. With the right coverage, you can focus on growing your business, instead of worrying about the risks you face every day.