Essential protection against everyday business risks
Businesses face an ongoing risk of legal action, and even allegations without merit can lead to costly proceedings and disruption. Commercial general liability insurance (CGL) is essential coverage for businesses of all sizes, helping protect against claims of bodily injury or property damage arising from your operations.
A closer look at CGL insurance
Key areas of commercial general liability coverage
Commercial general liability insurance can help protect your business when accidents, damage, or other claims happen in the course of your work. These coverages can help protect your operations and finances from a range of liability risks.
Bodily injury
Provides support when someone is injured in connection with your business operations, whether at your location or elsewhere. Coverage may include medical expenses, lost wages, or legal fees.
Property damage
Applies when your work damages another person’s property, such as a customer’s home, office, or equipment. It can help cover legal costs as well as repair or replacement expenses.
Product liability
Responds to claims involving injury or property damage linked to a product your business makes, sells, or distributes. Some products may require additional or specialized coverage.
Personal and advertising injury
Covers certain non-physical injury claims, including slander, libel, copyright infringement, false arrest, or wrongful eviction. While less common, these claims can still be costly to defend.
Why the right brokerage matters
The strategic advantage of partnering with Navacord for commercial liability coverage
Your business deserves liability protection that reflects the work you do, the risks you face, and the goals you’re working toward. Navacord helps organizations across Canada find practical, reliable commercial general liability coverage – backed by experienced advice and market insights.
Access to leading insurance markets
Our commercial insurance team works with a broad network of respected insurers, giving your business access to quality coverage options and risk solutions tailored to your needs.
Guidance from experienced advisors
We take the time to understand your operations, identify potential liability exposures, and recommend coverage that fits your business. Our team can also support risk management strategies that help reduce the likelihood and impact of claims.
Support across Canada and beyond
Through our national presence and partner networks, we help businesses navigate local requirements, regional considerations, and cross-border insurance needs with confidence.
Industry‑specific coverage options
Our advisors leverage cross‑industry expertise to deliver tailored insurance solutions that go beyond generic coverage.
FAQs for professional liability insurance
For most businesses, CGL insurance is not legally required in Canada. However, it is often strongly recommended because liability claims can be costly, disruptive, and difficult to recover from. A policy can help protect your business from legal expenses, settlements, or damages related to covered claims.
Any business that interacts with customers, vendors, properties, or the public may benefit from CGL coverage. Your need for coverage depends on your operations, industry, and day-to-day liability exposures.
CGL insurance may be especially important if your business:
• Welcomes clients, vendors, or visitors to your workplace
• Provides goods or services at client locations
• Manufactures, sells, or distributes products
• Employs staff to support business operations
• Advertises or promotes products and services
• Uses security personnel or contractors
• Leases, rents, or manages commercial space
CGL and errors and omissions (E&O) insurance respond to different types of risk.
CGL insurance is designed for claims involving bodily injury, property damage, and certain personal or advertising injuries. E&O insurance, also known as professional liability insurance, is designed for claims related to mistakes, negligence, or failure to deliver professional services as expected.
For example, a slip-and-fall claim at your premises may fall under CGL coverage, while a client claim related to professional advice, recommendations, or service errors may require E&O coverage.
CGL insurance provides broad protection, but it does not cover every risk. Common exclusions may include professional errors or omissions, intentional acts, pollution liability, employee injuries, and damage to your own property. A broker can help you review your policy, understand exclusions, and identify any additional coverage your business may need.
Commercial general liability insurance quote