two employees reviewing information on a tablet

As the name suggests, commercial insurance protects businesses, including business owners and their employees. Because every business is different, there is no one-size-fits-all insurance policy for small business owners.

For instance, an ice cream shop has very different insurance needs than an auto repair shop or a golf course. That’s why many small businesses opt for a business owners policy (BOP), which combines commercial property insurance, general liability insurance, crime insurance and other coverages into one convenient package.

Business owners also have the option to choose coverage based on their industry.

What is commercial insurance?

Put quite simply, commercial insurance consists of one or more types of coverage designed to protect businesses, their owners and their employees. Many business insurance policies include basic coverages such as property, liability, crime and commercial auto insurance, as well as other optional insurance, such as business interruption insurance, equipment breakdown insurance, cyber insurance, and workers compensation. Employee benefits such as dental, vision, disability and group life insurance also fall under commercial insurance, as do surety bonds which help ensure that contractors stick to the terms of a construction contract and/or follow governmental rules and regulations, as well as protect against losses stemming from a court decision or employee theft.

How much is business insurance?

When it comes to choosing insurance, most business owners want to know what insurance they need and how much it will cost. As we’ve already discussed, one of the biggest factors in determining what insurance coverage is needed depends on the business type. Other important considerations include:

  • Location
  • Number of employees
  • Years in business
  • Gross annual revenue
  • Whether the business owns or rents vehicles
  • Whether the business owns, leases or rents the building(s) they operate from

How to get business insurance

You can get an online quote from Nationwide in just 10 minutes, then call the toll-free number shown to complete the purchase with a Nationwide agent. In some cases, you can even complete the purchase online. Or, you can set up a call with an independent agent to talk through the details of your business and any questions you might have.

For other helpful resources, visit the Nationwide Business Solutions Center.
Small Business Icon
Learn more about Nationwide business insurance Talk to a specialist  

The information included is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state, or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided.