Pricing numbers are based on representative partner data for 2024-2026 general liability policies. Based on policies from Sep 25, 2024 through Sep 16, 2026.
GENERAL LIABILITY
Catering $37/month for general liability
WHY IT MATTERS
Why Catering need business insurance
Caterers work at changing venues, handle food and equipment, and serve guests in busy environments. The right mix of coverage can address third-party claims, employee injuries and damage to business property, subject to policy terms.
SCENARIO 1
A guest slips near the serving area
A guest slips on spilled food and alleges an injury. General liability insurance may help with covered medical expenses, legal defense and resulting damages.
SCENARIO 2
An employee is burned while cooking
An employee suffers a burn while preparing food for an event. Workers' compensation insurance may help with eligible medical care and lost wages, subject to state requirements and policy terms.
SCENARIO 3
A kitchen fire damages equipment
A covered fire damages catering equipment at an insured location. Commercial property coverage within a business owners policy may help pay to repair or replace covered property.
PRICING FACTORS
What determines your rate
Your actual quote depends on several factors specific to your operation:
Catering services offered
On-site cooking, open flames, alcohol service and large events can increase the exposure considered in a quote.
Sales and payroll
Higher sales or payroll can increase the exposure used to calculate rates for certain coverage lines.
Claims history
Frequent or costly prior claims can lead to a higher rate, while complete claim details help carriers evaluate the business accurately.
Employees and subcontractors
A larger team or greater reliance on subcontractors can increase workplace and liability exposures.
Equipment and property
More valuable cooking, refrigeration and serving equipment can increase the amount of property coverage needed.
Coverage structure
Adding coverage lines or selecting higher limits can increase the overall quote, while deductibles and policy terms also affect the result.
Rate change by revenue tier
Estimated monthly premium range. These are estimates, not a quote — actual rates vary by business.
Most quoted tier: Under $100K
National data
National rate factors
For caterers operating nationwide, rates and requirements vary by state, carrier and the locations where work is performed.
State requirements
Workers' compensation and other insurance requirements vary by state, so where employees work can affect coverage needs.
Operating territory
Travel distance, delivery activity and the number of venues served can affect how a carrier evaluates the operation.
Venue and storage locations
The characteristics of kitchens, storage spaces and event venues can influence liability and property exposures.
592
Quotes analyzed
45
States represented
3
Coverage lines
BEST RATE
How to get the best rate
Describe every service accurately
List on-site cooking, delivery, alcohol service, rentals and subcontracted work so the quote reflects the actual operation.
Document safety practices
Keep written procedures for food handling, spill cleanup, equipment use and employee training ready for review.
Review client contracts
Check venue and client agreements for required coverage lines, limits and additional insured terms before selecting a policy.
Keep business details current
Update sales, payroll, employee counts, equipment values and claims information before requesting a quote.
FAQ
Common questions
What business insurance should a catering company consider?
Coverage depends on the services, staff, equipment, vehicles and contracts involved. Caterers may consider general liability insurance, workers' compensation, commercial property, commercial auto and liquor liability when applicable.
Can general liability insurance address a food-related illness claim?
General liability insurance may address a covered bodily injury claim involving food prepared or served by the business. Coverage depends on the policy's products and completed operations terms, exclusions and claim details.
Does catering insurance include alcohol-related claims?
Not automatically. Caterers that sell, serve or furnish alcohol may need liquor liability coverage, depending on their operations and contract requirements.
Is workers' compensation required for a catering business?
Requirements depend on the state and the business's employment structure. A carrier can evaluate employee roles, payroll and work locations when preparing a quote.
How can I request a catering business insurance quote?
Get a free business insurance quote. Be ready to share your services, sales, payroll, employee count, equipment values, operating locations and current coverage details.