The Hartford tops our rankings for general liability insurance in Tennessee, delivering a combination of affordable rates and reliable service. NEXT and Nationwide round out our top picks, both having competitive coverage options.
General Liability Insurance in Tennessee
The Hartford tops our rankings for general liability insurance in Tennessee, scoring 4.64 out of 5.
Explore low-cost general liability insurance in Tennessee below.
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Updated: September 17, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Key Takeaways
The Hartford, NEXT and Nationwide are the leading general liability insurance providers in Tennessee.
Finding the right coverage depends on your specific business needs, coverage requirements and available budget.
Research provider ratings, gather multiple quotes and verify licensing status before selecting your insurance carrier.
Best General Liability Insurance Companies in Tennessee
| The Hartford | 4.64 | $80 |
| NEXT | 4.55 | $100 |
| Nationwide | 4.53 | $95 |
| Simply Business | 4.49 | $93 |
| Thimble | 4.40 | $105 |
| Coverdash | 4.37 | $101 |
| biBerk | 4.28 | $111 |
| Progressive Commercial | 4.27 | $98 |
| Chubb | 4.25 | $116 |
| Hiscox | 4.17 | $111 |
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.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS INSURANCE
General liability coverage represents just one piece of comprehensive business protection in Tennessee. Review these additional resources for complete coverage guidance:
Best Tennessee Small Business Insurance Reviews
We analyzed Tennessee's leading general liability insurance providers to show small business owners the specific advantages that make each company worth considering for dependable protection.
The Hartford
Best Overall Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.6/ 5
4.6/5Affordability
4.6/5Customer Experience
4.7/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Premium
$80Our Survey: Claims Process
4.5/5Recommend to Others
4.5/5
NEXT
Runner-Up Best Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.5/ 5
4.2/5Affordability
4.7/5Customer Experience
4.8/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Premium
$100Our Survey: Claims Process
3.9/5Recommend to Others
4.8/5
Cheapest General Liability Insurance Companies in Tennessee
The Hartford offers the cheapest general liability insurance in Tennessee, with coverage starting at $80 monthly ($957 annually). Simply Business and Nationwide also provide competitive rates, making them solid alternatives for cost-conscious small business owners.
| The Hartford | $80 | $957 |
| Simply Business | $93 | $1,120 |
| Nationwide | $95 | $1,135 |
| Progressive Commercial | $98 | $1,171 |
| NEXT | $101 | $1,206 |
| Coverdash | $101 | $1,210 |
| Thimble | $105 | $1,255 |
| Hiscox | $111 | $1,335 |
| biBerk | $111 | $1,336 |
| Chubb | $116 | $1,391 |
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 Tennessee
General liability insurance in Tennessee costs an average of $101 per month or $1,203 annually, which aligns closely with national rates. Your actual premium varies based on your industry risk level, business size and claims history. Construction companies pay higher premiums due to increased risk exposure, while consulting firms pay less.
Average Cost of General Liability Insurance by Industry
General liability insurance costs vary across industries in Tennessee. Pressure washing businesses pay the highest monthly premiums at $897, while drone companies pay the least at just $16 per month. The table below shows how coverage costs differ for various business types throughout the state.
| Accountants | $22 | $259 |
| Ad Agency | $35 | $416 |
| Automotive | $52 | $627 |
| Auto Repair | $149 | $1,787 |
| Bakery | $89 | $1,062 |
| Barber | $43 | $521 |
| Beauty Salon | $65 | $786 |
| Bounce House | $69 | $826 |
| Candle | $54 | $646 |
| Cannabis | $66 | $788 |
| Catering | $86 | $1,031 |
| Cleaning | $130 | $1,558 |
| Coffee Shop | $88 | $1,055 |
| Computer Programming | $28 | $342 |
| Computer Repair | $47 | $560 |
| Construction | $172 | $2,062 |
| Consulting | $22 | $258 |
| Contractor | $250 | $2,997 |
| Courier | $192 | $2,298 |
| Daycare | $32 | $387 |
| Dental | $21 | $253 |
| DJ | $25 | $298 |
| Dog Grooming | $62 | $746 |
| Drone | $16 | $196 |
| Ecommerce | $72 | $861 |
| Electrical | $110 | $1,322 |
| Engineering | $39 | $469 |
| Excavation | $456 | $5,476 |
| Florist | $42 | $504 |
| Food | $106 | $1,266 |
| Food Truck | $139 | $1,667 |
| Funeral Home | $59 | $710 |
| Gardening | $110 | $1,322 |
| Handyman | $239 | $2,871 |
| Home-based | $23 | $279 |
| Home-based | $45 | $538 |
| Hospitality | $64 | $767 |
| HVAC | $240 | $2,885 |
| Janitorial | $134 | $1,613 |
| Jewelry | $39 | $474 |
| Junk Removal | $159 | $1,911 |
| Lawn/Landscaping | $118 | $1,414 |
| Lawyers | $22 | $268 |
| Manufacturing | $63 | $752 |
| Marine | $27 | $330 |
| Massage | $94 | $1,127 |
| Mortgage Broker | $22 | $269 |
| Moving | $122 | $1,459 |
| Nonprofit | $35 | $422 |
| Painting | $141 | $1,691 |
| Party Rental | $78 | $935 |
| Personal Training | $23 | $281 |
| Pest Control | $32 | $379 |
| Pet | $55 | $659 |
| Pharmacy | $61 | $727 |
| Photography | $24 | $284 |
| Physical Therapy | $108 | $1,297 |
| Plumbing | $354 | $4,252 |
| Pressure Washing | $897 | $10,766 |
| Real Estate | $52 | $625 |
| Restaurant | $142 | $1,705 |
| Retail | $64 | $769 |
| Roofing | $380 | $4,563 |
| Security | $136 | $1,636 |
| Snack Bars | $115 | $1,381 |
| Software | $26 | $310 |
| Spa/Wellness | $105 | $1,255 |
| Speech Therapist | $31 | $367 |
| Startup | $28 | $337 |
| Tech/IT | $26 | $311 |
| Transportation | $37 | $442 |
| Travel | $20 | $245 |
| Tree Service | $127 | $1,526 |
| Trucking | $101 | $1,207 |
| Tutoring | $30 | $356 |
| Veterinary | $44 | $527 |
| Wedding Planning | $27 | $326 |
| Welding | $162 | $1,939 |
| Wholesale | $44 | $526 |
| Window Cleaning | $156 | $1,873 |
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee doesn't require most businesses to carry general liability insurance at the state level. But cities and counties can establish their own coverage rules, and some licensed trades must maintain specific coverage:
Electricians
Tennessee requires licensed electricians to carry general liability insurance with minimum limits of $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 annual aggregate. Completed operations coverage must be included in the policy.
Electrical Sign Contractors
Electrical sign contractors in Tennessee must maintain the same coverage as electricians, with $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 annual aggregate limits. Completed operations coverage is also required.
HVAC Contractors
Tennessee HVAC contractors face different insurance requirements based on their license class. Residential contractors need $100,000 per occurrence and $300,000 annual aggregate, while commercial contractors must carry $500,000 per occurrence and $1,000,000 annual aggregate coverage.
Fire Safety Companies
Fire safety companies operating in Tennessee must maintain general liability insurance with minimum limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 annual aggregate.
General liability insurance becomes important for practical business reasons, regardless of licensing mandates. Most commercial property owners demand proof of coverage before approving lease agreements. Large corporations and government contracts will want valid insurance certificates from any contractor they hire.
How to Choose the Best General Liability Insurance in Tennessee
Choosing general liability insurance in Tennessee comes down to two key factors: identifying the coverage your business actually needs and finding affordable options that protect your bottom line.
- 1
Figure out coverage needs
Start by checking if your industry has specific licensing requirements in Tennessee. Many clients and contractors expect $1 million in coverage even when state minimums are lower.
- 2
Gather business information
Collect details about your annual revenue, employee count, business type and location before requesting quotes.
- 3
Compare multiple insurance quotes
Request quotes from at least three different insurers to find the best rates.
- 4
Review policy terms carefully
Focus on coverage exclusions and limits rather than just comparing premiums.
- 5
Research insurer financial strength
Use Tennessee's insurance department website to verify company licenses and agent credentials. Check AM Best ratings for financial stability and review complaint records.
- 6
Ask about available discounts
Many insurers offer reduced rates for bundling multiple policies together or maintaining clean claims histories. Safety training programs and workplace safety measures can also qualify for premium discounts.
- 7
Obtain certificate of insurance
Request your certificate of insurance immediately after purchasing coverage. Clients, landlords, and contractors often require this document before starting work. Some insurers provide instant online access while others may take several business days to process certificate requests.
How to Prevent General Liability Claims in Tennessee
No business owner wants to handle liability claims, but Tennessee entrepreneurs can avoid most issues through smart preparation and proactive planning.
Watch out for property hazards
Tennessee's severe storms and high humidity create ongoing slip and fall risks from wet surfaces, ice, and structural damage. Conduct regular property inspections and fix damaged areas. Maintain adequate lighting in all customer areas and keep emergency supplies ready for quick cleanup of water or debris.
Train your people well
Equip employees with safety knowledge specific to common Tennessee workplace hazards like ladder use during storm cleanup and proper lifting techniques in humid conditions.
Keep good records
Document all business activities with photos, written logs and saved communications to protect against liability claims.
Get everything in writing
Create detailed written agreements that specify work scope, property access points and areas where your business has no responsibility.
Fix problems fast
Address customer complaints and safety concerns immediately to prevent small issues from becoming major liability claims.
General Liability Insurance in Tennessee: Bottom Line
Selecting quality general liability insurance in Tennessee requires evaluating your business needs and researching reliable providers. The Hartford, NEXT, and Nationwide represent the state's top-ranked options, but your ideal choice depends on your industry, company size, and budget. These leading insurers offer different strengths and coverage approaches. Compare multiple quotes from these providers to find the most suitable coverage for your situation. Always verify each insurer's credentials and licensing status before making your final decision.
Commercial General Liability Insurance in Tennessee: FAQ
Our research reveals the most pressing questions Tennessee business owners have about general liability insurance, and we provide clear answers below.
What does general liability insurance cover for Tennessee businesses?
General liability insurance for businesses covers customer injuries, property damage you cause to others and legal defense costs.
How much does general liability insurance cost in Tennessee?
Small businesses in Tennessee pay between $80 and $116 monthly for general liability insurance. The Hartford offers the most affordable coverage at $80 per month, while Simply Business and Nationwide provide competitive alternatives at $93 and $95, respectively.
Do Tennessee businesses legally need general liability insurance?
Tennessee does not legally mandate general liability insurance for most businesses. Municipalities may impose their own requirements. Certain licensed professionals, like contractors and electricians, need certain coverages to keep their licenses.
Which company offers the best general liability insurance in Tennessee?
The Hartford leads Tennessee's general liability insurance market with good financial stability and competitive pricing at around $80 monthly.
What coverage limits should Tennessee businesses choose?
Tennessee businesses should first verify minimum coverage requirements for their specific industry licensing. The standard choice for most small businesses is $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate limits.
How can Tennessee businesses prevent general liability claims?
Tennessee businesses can reduce general liability claims by promptly addressing property hazards and holding comprehensive employee safety training programs.
Can Tennessee businesses get discounts on general liability insurance?
Yes, Tennessee businesses can save by bundling general liability with property or other commercial coverage. Additional savings opportunities include completing workplace safety training programs.
How quickly can Tennessee businesses get general liability coverage?
Tennessee businesses can obtain general liability coverage rapidly through digital platforms.
What should Tennessee businesses do when filing a general liability claim?
Tennessee businesses must immediately notify their insurance carrier when an incident occurs.
How does general liability differ from professional liability coverage?
General liability insurance protects Tennessee businesses from third-party bodily injuries and property damage during operations, such as a customer slipping in your store. Professional liability covers errors in services you provide, like an accountant's mistake causing client financial loss.
How We Scored the Best General Liability Insurance Companies in Tennessee
Tennessee business owners deal with varied liability exposures, including weather-related incidents and industry-specific hazards. Our evaluation process examined general liability providers to identify insurers offering solid protection at reasonable rates for local small businesses.
What We Evaluated
- Affordability (50%): Cost considerations drive coverage decisions for most Tennessee small businesses. We analyzed premium rates across carriers because reasonable pricing determines whether businesses can maintain adequate protection.
- Customer experience (30%): Effective claims service protects business operations when incidents occur. We examined J.D. Power rankings, Tennessee complaint data, and independent agent feedback to assess how insurers treat policyholders during claims.
- Coverage options (15%): Tennessee businesses span multiple industries with varying liability exposures. We evaluated how insurers customize general liability coverage to match specific business needs across different sectors.
- Financial strength (5%): Low premiums provide little value if the insurer cannot pay claims. We checked AM Best ratings and financial documentation to confirm carriers maintain adequate reserves.
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
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- NEXT. "Customer Reviews | NEXT." Accessed September 17, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "Next Insurance Reviews." Accessed September 17, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "The Hartford Reviews." Accessed September 17, 2025.
- The Hartford. "When Is Liability Insurance Needed?." Accessed September 17, 2025.
- The Hartford. "What Does General Liability Insurance Cover?." Accessed September 17, 2025.