What is Error and Omission Insurance?

Error and omission insurance (E&O) is a type of professional liability insurance that protects businesses and professionals from claims made by clients for damages caused by negligence or mistakes in the course of providing business services. E&O insurance covers legal defense costs, settlements, and damages awarded in a lawsuit. It is also known as professional liability insurance, malpractice insurance, or errors and omissions insurance.

Who Needs E&O Insurance?

Any business or individual that provides a professional service or advice can benefit from E&O insurance. This includes lawyers, doctors, accountants, architects, engineers, consultants, and other professionals. E&O insurance is especially important for businesses that provide financial, legal, or healthcare services, where mistakes can have serious consequences for clients.

Even if you are an expert in your field and provide quality services, mistakes can still happen, and you can be held liable for damages. E&O insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that you are protected from potential claims and lawsuits.

What Does E&O Insurance Cover?

E&O insurance can cover a wide range of claims and damages related to professional negligence or mistakes, such as:

Types of Claims
Examples
Errors
A financial advisor provides bad investment advice that results in significant losses for a client
Omissions
An architect fails to include all necessary safety features in a building design, leading to injury or property damage
Negligence
A doctor fails to diagnose or treat a patient correctly, causing harm or injury
Breach of Contract
An accountant fails to provide accurate financial statements, violating the terms of a contract with a client
Defamation
A public relations firm makes false or damaging statements about a client, causing harm to their reputation

E&O insurance typically covers legal defense costs, settlements, and damages awarded in a lawsuit, up to the policy limit. The policy limit is the maximum amount the insurer will pay in a claim, and it varies depending on the type of business and level of risk.

FAQ

Q: How much does E&O insurance cost?

A: The cost of E&O insurance depends on several factors, such as the type of business, level of risk, and policy limit. Small businesses with low-risk services can expect to pay a few hundred dollars per year, while larger businesses with high-risk services may pay thousands of dollars per year.

Q: Is E&O insurance the same as general liability insurance?

A: No, E&O insurance is different from general liability insurance. General liability insurance covers bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury claims, while E&O insurance covers claims related to professional services and advice.

Q: Do I need E&O insurance if I have a good reputation and track record?

A: Yes, even if you have a good reputation and track record, mistakes can still happen, and you can be held liable for damages. E&O insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind, even for the most experienced professionals.

Q: What types of businesses typically require E&O insurance?

A: Businesses that provide professional services or advice, such as lawyers, doctors, accountants, architects, engineers, consultants, and other professionals, typically require E&O insurance. E&O insurance is especially important for businesses that provide financial, legal, or healthcare services.

Q: What should I consider when choosing an E&O insurance policy?

A: When choosing an E&O insurance policy, you should consider the policy limit, coverage exclusions, deductible, and insurer reputation. It is also a good idea to compare quotes from multiple insurers to find the best coverage and price for your business.