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Compare Quotes →Coverage questions for this industry
Restaurants combine customer traffic, property, equipment, food service, employees, delivery, and business interruption risks. Insurance needs usually depend on contracts, state rules, employee status, business vehicles, customer interaction, equipment, property, and whether advice or professional services are involved.
Common policies to research
Ask how this coverage applies to restaurant insurance guide and what exclusions or endorsements may matter.
Ask how this coverage applies to restaurant insurance guide and what exclusions or endorsements may matter.
Ask how this coverage applies to restaurant insurance guide and what exclusions or endorsements may matter.
Ask how this coverage applies to restaurant insurance guide and what exclusions or endorsements may matter.
Ask how this coverage applies to restaurant insurance guide and what exclusions or endorsements may matter.
Ask how this coverage applies to restaurant insurance guide and what exclusions or endorsements may matter.
Risk signals to discuss
- Dining room
- Kitchen equipment
- Workers comp
- Delivery
- Liquor questions
Before comparing quotes
Prepare annual revenue, payroll, subcontractor use, location, vehicle details, equipment values, prior claims, and copies of contracts requiring insurance. If a client asks for additional insured status or a certificate of insurance, show the exact wording to a licensed professional.
Cost factors to organize
Common quote factors include state, industry, years in business, annual revenue, payroll, prior claims, number of employees, subcontractor usage, vehicle use, coverage limits, deductible choices, property values, and whether customers or workers visit job sites. Keeping these details consistent across quote requests makes comparisons more useful.
Frequently asked questions
What insurance does a restaurant legally need?
Most U.S. states require workers compensation once a restaurant has employees, and many landlords and local permits also require a general liability policy. Liquor liability, commercial auto for delivery, and commercial property coverage often follow.
How much does restaurant insurance cost per month?
Small restaurants commonly see general liability premiums between roughly $70 and $200 per month, with a full package (BOP, workers comp, liquor) often running $300 to $1,200+ per month depending on revenue, payroll, location, and prior claims.
Does restaurant insurance cover food spoilage?
Standard property policies do not always include spoilage. Many restaurants add a food spoilage or equipment breakdown endorsement to cover losses from refrigeration failure, power outages, or covered equipment breakdowns.
Do I need liquor liability insurance if I only serve beer and wine?
Usually yes. Most states still treat beer and wine service as alcohol service for liability purposes, so general liability often excludes alcohol-related claims. A liquor liability endorsement or standalone policy is typically required.
What if a customer slips and falls in my restaurant?
A slip-and-fall claim is normally handled under general liability or the BOP. The policy can pay for the customer's medical expenses, legal defense costs, and any settlement up to the policy limits.
Are delivery drivers covered under my restaurant policy?
Personal auto policies usually exclude commercial delivery use. Restaurants typically need a hired and non-owned auto endorsement, or full commercial auto coverage, to protect the business when employees deliver food.
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