The Hartford tops our list for general liability insurance in Connecticut, delivering a balance of affordable rates and quality service. NEXT and Nationwide are alternatives, both excelling in customer satisfaction.
General Liability Insurance in Connecticut
The Hartford is ranked top for general liability insurance in Connecticut, scoring 4.61 out of 5.
Explore low-cost general liability insurance in Connecticut below.

Updated: September 15, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Key Takeaways
The Hartford, NEXT and Nationwide are Connecticut's leading general liability insurance providers for business protection.
Your business type, size, required coverage levels and available budget influence which insurance provider best meets your needs.
Getting the right coverage requires comparing multiple quotes, checking provider financial strength ratings and verifying proper licensing in Connecticut.
Best General Liability Insurance Companies in Connecticut
The Hartford | 4.61 | $89 |
NEXT | 4.55 | $112 |
Nationwide | 4.52 | $106 |
Simply Business | 4.48 | $104 |
Coverdash | 4.37 | $112 |
Thimble | 4.35 | $116 |
biBerk | 4.30 | $124 |
Progressive Commercial | 4.27 | $109 |
Chubb | 4.27 | $129 |
Hiscox | 4.19 | $124 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are estimates based on MoneyGeek's analysis of small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries. Actual rates vary based on your specific business location, industry risk factors, claims history, coverage limits and individual insurer underwriting criteria. Contact insurers directly for personalized quotes.
Compare Small Business Insurance Rates
Ensure you are getting the best rate for your insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS INSURANCE
General liability coverage alone won't fully protect your Connecticut business. Explore these additional insurance options to build comprehensive protection:
Best Connecticut Small Business Insurance Reviews
We analyzed Connecticut's leading general liability insurance providers to help small business owners identify which companies offer the strongest coverage options and best value for their specific needs.

The Hartford
Best Overall Provider
Average Monthly Premium
$89Our Survey: Claims Process
4.5/5Recommend to Others
4.5/5

NEXT
Runner-Up Best Provider
Average Monthly Premium
$112Our Survey: Claims Process
3.9/5Recommend to Others
4.8/5
Cheapest General Liability Insurance Companies in Connecticut
The Hartford offers the most affordable general liability insurance in Connecticut, with coverage starting at $89 monthly ($1,068 annually). Small business owners seeking budget-friendly options can also consider Simply Business and Nationwide, which provide competitive rates at $104 and $106 per month respectively. All three insurers deliver solid alternatives for cost-conscious entrepreneurs in the state.
The Hartford | $89 | $1,068 |
Simply Business | $104 | $1,248 |
Nationwide | $106 | $1,266 |
Progressive Commercial | $109 | $1,307 |
NEXT | $112 | $1,344 |
Coverdash | $112 | $1,348 |
Thimble | $116 | $1,395 |
Hiscox | $124 | $1,485 |
biBerk | $124 | $1,485 |
Chubb | $129 | $1,550 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on general liability policies. Your actual premium depends on where your business is located, what industry you're in, how much coverage you choose, and other factors insurers consider. Available options differ by state.
Average Cost of General Liability Insurance in Connecticut
General liability insurance in Connecticut averages $112 monthly or $1,340 annually, running slightly above the national average. Your actual premium varies based on your industry risk level, business size, and claims history. Construction companies typically face much higher rates than low-risk businesses like consulting firms due to increased liability exposure.
Average Cost of General Liability Insurance by Industry
General liability insurance costs vary dramatically by industry in Connecticut. Pressure washing businesses face the highest monthly premiums at $1,000, while drone operators pay just $18 per month. This wide range shows how business risk affects pricing across different sectors.
Accountants | $24 | $289 |
Ad Agency | $39 | $463 |
Automotive | $58 | $698 |
Auto Repair | $166 | $1,990 |
Bakery | $99 | $1,184 |
Barber | $48 | $580 |
Beauty Salon | $73 | $875 |
Bounce House | $77 | $920 |
Candle | $60 | $720 |
Cannabis | $73 | $878 |
Catering | $96 | $1,148 |
Cleaning | $145 | $1,735 |
Coffee Shop | $98 | $1,175 |
Computer Programming | $32 | $380 |
Computer Repair | $52 | $624 |
Construction | $191 | $2,297 |
Consulting | $24 | $287 |
Contractor | $278 | $3,340 |
Courier | $213 | $2,561 |
Daycare | $36 | $431 |
Dental | $23 | $282 |
DJ | $28 | $332 |
Dog Grooming | $69 | $831 |
Drone | $18 | $218 |
Ecommerce | $80 | $958 |
Electrical | $123 | $1,473 |
Engineering | $44 | $522 |
Excavation | $508 | $6,101 |
Florist | $47 | $561 |
Food | $118 | $1,410 |
Food Truck | $155 | $1,857 |
Funeral Home | $66 | $791 |
Gardening | $123 | $1,472 |
Handyman | $267 | $3,198 |
Home-based | $26 | $311 |
Home-based | $50 | $599 |
Hospitality | $71 | $854 |
HVAC | $268 | $3,214 |
Janitorial | $150 | $1,796 |
Jewelry | $44 | $528 |
Junk Removal | $177 | $2,129 |
Lawn/Landscaping | $131 | $1,575 |
Lawyers | $25 | $299 |
Manufacturing | $70 | $837 |
Marine | $31 | $367 |
Massage | $105 | $1,255 |
Mortgage Broker | $25 | $300 |
Moving | $135 | $1,625 |
Nonprofit | $39 | $470 |
Painting | $157 | $1,884 |
Party Rental | $87 | $1,041 |
Personal Training | $26 | $313 |
Pest Control | $35 | $422 |
Pet | $61 | $734 |
Pharmacy | $67 | $810 |
Photography | $26 | $316 |
Physical Therapy | $120 | $1,442 |
Plumbing | $395 | $4,737 |
Pressure Washing | $1,000 | $11,995 |
Real Estate | $58 | $697 |
Restaurant | $158 | $1,900 |
Retail | $71 | $857 |
Roofing | $424 | $5,084 |
Security | $152 | $1,823 |
Snack Bars | $128 | $1,538 |
Software | $29 | $345 |
Spa/Wellness | $117 | $1,398 |
Speech Therapist | $34 | $409 |
Startup | $31 | $375 |
Tech/IT | $29 | $346 |
Transportation | $41 | $493 |
Travel | $23 | $273 |
Tree Service | $142 | $1,701 |
Trucking | $112 | $1,344 |
Tutoring | $33 | $396 |
Veterinary | $49 | $587 |
Wedding Planning | $30 | $363 |
Welding | $180 | $2,160 |
Wholesale | $49 | $585 |
Window Cleaning | $174 | $2,087 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on general liability policies. Your actual premium depends on where your business is located, what industry you're in, how much coverage you choose, and other factors insurers consider. Available options differ by state.
How Much General Liability Insurance Do I Need in Connecticut?
Connecticut doesn't require most businesses to carry general liability insurance at the state level, so operating without it won't trigger statewide penalties. However, individual cities and counties can set their own rules and may impose fines or restrict permits if coverage is missing.
Check with your local government offices to confirm requirements in your area. While the state keeps regulations minimal for most businesses, certain licensed trades must carry specific coverage to keep their professional licenses active:
Electricians
Connecticut requires licensed electricians to carry general liability insurance with minimum limits of $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 annual aggregate. Completed operations coverage is mandatory as part of the licensing requirements.
Electrical Sign Contractors
Electrical sign contractors in Connecticut must maintain the same general liability coverage as electricians, with $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 annual aggregate limits. Completed operations coverage is also required for this specialty electrical trade.
HVAC Contractors
General liability insurance requirements for HVAC contractors vary by license class in Connecticut. Most license classes require minimum coverage of $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 annual aggregate. Higher license classifications may have increased minimum limits depending on the scope of work authorized.
Fire Safety Companies
Fire safety companies must carry general liability insurance with minimum limits of $500,000 per occurrence and $1,000,000 annual aggregate to obtain registration in Connecticut. These higher limits reflect the critical nature of fire protection services.
General liability insurance becomes essential for practical business reasons beyond licensing requirements. Most commercial property owners demand proof of coverage before approving lease agreements, and major corporations along with government agencies typically require valid insurance certificates from contractors. Your policy limits should satisfy both your professional licensing standards and client expectations to ensure smooth business operations.
How to Choose the Best General Liability Insurance in Connecticut
Choosing general liability insurance in Connecticut starts with determining what coverage your business needs and finding affordable options that protect your bottom line.
- 1
Determine your coverage needs
Review Connecticut industry licensing requirements for your business type first. Many clients demand higher limits like $1 million even when state minimums are lower, so plan accordingly.
- 2
Prepare business information
Gather accurate details about your annual revenue, employee count, business type, and location. Insurers use this information to calculate premiums, and incorrect data can create audit problems or coverage gaps later.
- 3
Collect multiple quotes
Request quotes from at least three insurers since pricing varies . The cheapest provider might charge around $89 monthly while others quote $129, with differences in service quality and coverage features.
- 4
Examine policy terms
Focus on exclusions and coverage details rather than just premium costs. Some policies cover legal defense expenses in addition to your limit, while others subtract these costs from your total coverage.
- 5
Verify insurer credentials
Use Connecticut's insurance department website to confirm company and agent licenses. Check AM Best financial ratings and complaint records to identify insurers with strong claims handling and stability.
- 6
Inquire about discounts
Ask about savings opportunities like safety program participation, policy bundling, or maintaining a clean claims history. These discounts can reduce your premium with many insurance providers.
- 7
Obtain insurance certificate
Request your certificate of insurance after purchasing coverage since clients and landlords often require proof. Some insurers provide instant online access while others need additional processing time.
How to Prevent General Liability Claims in Connecticut
Business owners never want to handle liability claims, but Connecticut companies can avoid most issues through smart preparation and proactive planning.
Watch out for property hazards
Connecticut's harsh winters and humid summers create ongoing slip and fall risks for businesses. Inspect walkways regularly for ice buildup, snow accumulation, and summer moisture that can make surfaces slippery. Address uneven pavement, loose handrails, and poor lighting immediately to prevent customer and employee injuries.
Train your people well
Proper employee training reduces workplace accidents and customer incidents that lead to costly claims. Teach staff to recognize hazards, follow safety protocols, and handle equipment correctly according to Connecticut workplace safety standards. Conduct monthly safety meetings and document all training sessions to show your commitment to prevention.
Keep good records
Detailed documentation protects your business when liability questions arise in Connecticut's legal environment. Photograph work sites before and after projects, maintain incident logs with dates and witness information, and save all communication with customers and vendors. Organized records help resolve disputes quickly and support your defense if claims occur.
Get everything in writing
Clear contracts prevent misunderstandings that often lead to liability disputes in Connecticut businesses. Specify work scope, safety responsibilities, access limitations, and property boundaries in all agreements. Written terms protect both parties and reduce the chance of disagreements escalating into formal claims.
Fix problems fast
Quick response to customer complaints and incidents can prevent minor issues from becoming major liability claims. Address safety concerns immediately, document your corrective actions, and follow up to ensure customer satisfaction. Prompt communication and resolution often turn potential lawsuits into satisfied customers who may recommend your business.
General Liability Insurance in Connecticut: Bottom Line
Securing quality general liability insurance in Connecticut requires matching coverage to your specific business needs. The Hartford, NEXT, and Nationwide lead the state's insurance market, but your ideal provider depends on your industry type, company size, and available budget. Smart business owners compare quotes from multiple insurers and verify each company's licensing credentials before making their final decision.
Commercial General Liability Insurance in Connecticut: FAQ
Our research and analysis helped us answer the most common general liability insurance questions Connecticut business owners ask when shopping for coverage.
What does general liability insurance cover for Connecticut businesses?
General liability insurance for Connecticut businesses covers third-party bodily injuries, property damage you cause to others, and legal defense costs. For instance, it pays if a customer slips in your store or you accidentally damage a client's equipment during service. It excludes professional errors, employee injuries, cyber incidents, and damage to your own business property.
How much does general liability insurance cost in Connecticut?
Small businesses in Connecticut pay between $89 and $129 monthly for general liability insurance. The Hartford provides the most affordable coverage at $89 per month, while Simply Business and Nationwide offer competitive alternatives at $104 and $106 respectively. Your actual premium depends on industry type, business size, location, and coverage limits selected.
Do Connecticut businesses legally need general liability insurance?
Connecticut does not mandate general liability insurance for most businesses. However, municipalities may impose their own requirements, and licensed professionals like contractors and electricians often need specific coverage amounts to maintain their licenses. Additionally, landlords, clients, and business partners frequently require proof of general liability insurance before entering contracts or agreements.
Which company offers the best general liability insurance in Connecticut?
The Hartford ranks as Connecticut's top general liability insurance provider, excelling in financial stability and affordability with average monthly costs around $89. NEXT also performs well, leading in customer service and coverage quality. Your ideal choice depends on whether you prioritize cost savings or premium service experience.
What coverage limits should Connecticut businesses choose?
Connecticut businesses should first verify any minimum coverage requirements for their industry licenses. The standard choice for most small businesses is $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate coverage. This combination provides solid protection against claims while meeting the expectations of most clients and contracts at a reasonable cost.
How can Connecticut businesses prevent general liability claims?
Connecticut businesses can reduce general liability claims by promptly addressing property hazards such as broken walkways, wet floors, and snow accumulation. Implement comprehensive employee safety training programs and maintain detailed photographic documentation of incidents. Use written contracts to clarify expectations and prevent misunderstandings. Respond to customer complaints swiftly and professionally to resolve issues before they escalate into legal action.
Can Connecticut businesses get discounts on general liability insurance?
Yes, Connecticut businesses can secure discounts on general liability insurance through various methods. Insurers frequently offer reduced rates for bundling general liability with property or other commercial coverage. Businesses may also qualify for savings by implementing workplace safety programs, completing training certifications, or maintaining a clean claims history. Industry-specific discounts are available, so compare multiple providers and inquire about specialized programs.
How quickly can Connecticut businesses get general liability coverage?
Connecticut businesses can obtain general liability coverage within hours through digital platforms that provide immediate quotes and certificates. Traditional insurers working through agents may require one to two business days but offer customized policy recommendations. Most carriers issue certificates of insurance promptly once payment processes, enabling businesses to meet contract requirements quickly.
What should Connecticut businesses do when filing a general liability claim?
Connecticut businesses should immediately notify their insurance carrier when an incident occurs. Document everything thoroughly with photographs, witness contact information, and detailed records of the event. Avoid admitting fault or discussing liability with anyone involved. Allow your insurer to handle all investigations, legal defense, and settlement negotiations professionally.
How does general liability differ from professional liability coverage?
General liability insurance protects Connecticut businesses from physical incidents like customer injuries or property damage during operations. Professional liability coverage addresses errors in services or advice that cause client financial harm, such as consulting mistakes or design flaws. Service-based businesses often require both policies for comprehensive protection against different risk categories.
How We Scored the Best General Liability Insurance Companies in Connecticut
Connecticut small businesses deal with varied liability exposures, from slip-and-fall incidents to property damage claims. Our analysis focused on finding general liability insurers that deliver solid coverage without breaking tight business budgets.
What We Evaluated • Affordability (50%): Cost remains the biggest concern for Connecticut small businesses. We analyzed premium rates across carriers because reasonable pricing determines whether businesses can actually maintain coverage. • Customer experience (30%): Quality service becomes critical when claims arise. We examined J.D. Power ratings, state complaint statistics, and independent agent feedback to assess how insurers treat policyholders during stressful situations. • Coverage options (15%): Connecticut businesses span many industries with different risk profiles. We evaluated how effectively insurers customize general liability policies for local companies, from retail shops to construction firms. • Financial strength (5%): Low premiums mean nothing if the insurer cannot pay claims. We checked AM Best ratings and financial stability reports to ensure recommended companies maintain solid financial footing.
About Mark Fitzpatrick

Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.
sources
- NEXT. "NEXT: Small Business Insurance Quotes Online." Accessed September 18, 2025.
- NEXT. "Customer Reviews | NEXT." Accessed September 18, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "Next Insurance Reviews." Accessed September 18, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "The Hartford Reviews." Accessed September 18, 2025.
- The Hartford. "When Is Liability Insurance Needed?." Accessed September 18, 2025.
- The Hartford. "What Does General Liability Insurance Cover?." Accessed September 18, 2025.