General Liability Insurance in St. Charles, MO

The coverage most landlords, clients and general contractors ask a business to prove it has.

Opening soon · Not yet quoting or selling insurance

What general liability is for

General liability insurance protects a business when someone outside the business says it hurt them or damaged their property. A customer slips in a shop on Main Street in St. Charles. A technician cracks a client's countertop. A competitor claims an ad defamed them. General liability pays for the damage the business is legally responsible for, and for the cost of defending the claim.

Firstway is a new independent agency opening soon in Wentzville. We aren't quoting or selling policies yet; this page is an explanation, not an offer.

What it covers

Bodily injury

Injuries to customers, visitors and other third parties caused by the business's premises or work.

Property damage

Damage the business causes to property that belongs to someone else.

Personal and advertising injury

Claims such as libel, slander or copying someone's advertising idea.

Products and completed operations

Injury or damage that shows up after a product is sold or a job is finished.

What it doesn't cover

Injuries to your own employees, which fall under workers' compensation
Your own building, equipment and tools, which need property coverage
Vehicles, which need commercial auto
Mistakes in professional advice or services, which need professional liability

Certificates and additional insureds

Much of the demand for general liability comes from other people. Landlords usually write it into a lease. General contractors ask subcontractors for a certificate of insurance before work starts, and often ask to be named as an additional insured. Larger customers do the same before signing a service contract.

A small business with a storefront may get its general liability as part of a business owners policy. Contractors usually buy it on its own; see contractors insurance.

General liability questions

Is general liability insurance required by law in Missouri?

Missouri has no blanket law requiring every business to carry it. It is often required in practice by a lease, a client contract, a lender, or a licensing or permit rule.

What is a certificate of insurance?

A one-page document from the insurer or agent that summarizes a business's coverage, limits and policy dates. Landlords, general contractors and clients ask for it as proof of insurance.

Does general liability cover my tools or my building?

No. It covers other people's injuries and property. Your own building, equipment and tools need property coverage.

Can Firstway quote general liability yet?

No. Firstway isn't open, and we don't quote or sell insurance until we are licensed. Leave your name on this page and we'll contact you when we open.