NEXT offers the best professional liability insurance in Rhode Island, with affordable rates and strong customer service. The Hartford ranks second, while Simply Business takes third place.
Professional Liability Insurance in Rhode Island
NEXT earns the highest score of 4.71 out of 5 in our analysis of the best professional liability insurance in Rhode Island.
Get matched to the best professional liability insurance companies for your Rhode Island business.
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Updated: October 28, 2025
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Best Professional Liability Insurance in Rhode Island: Key Takeaways
NEXT is our top pick for professional liability insurance in Rhode Island, followed by The Hartford and Simply Business.
Your industry risks, client contracts, potential claim costs and budget determine the best Rhode Island professional liability insurance for you.
Assess your needs first, then compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best small business insurance for your professional liability requirements in Rhode Island.
Find Insurance for Your Business
Select your industry and state to get a customized quote.
Industry
State
Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Rhode Island
| NEXT Insurance | 4.71 | $80 |
| The Hartford | 4.65 | $78 |
| Simply Business | 4.51 | $84 |
| Nationwide | 4.45 | $90 |
| Coverdash | 4.44 | $86 |
| biBERK | 4.43 | $88 |
| Progressive Commercial | 4.39 | $83 |
| Hiscox | 4.36 | $84 |
| Chubb | 4.28 | $98 |
| Thimble | 4.25 | $84 |
How Did We Determine These Rates and Rankings?
These rates are estimates based on MoneyGeek's proprietary analysis of small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries and should not be considered quotes. Your actual rate will differ based on business-specific factors. Contact insurers directly for accurate pricing tailored to your business needs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS INSURANCE
Professional liability coverage works best alongside other coverage types that protect Rhode Island businesses from various financial risks.
Best Rhode Island Professional Liability Insurance Reviews
Most professionals need professional liability insurance, but not all providers offer the same value. We've broken down what differentiates these top providers and why they made our list for Rhode Island businesses.
NEXT
Overall Best Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.7/ 5
4.7/5Affordability
4.7/5Customer Experience
4.8/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Premium
$80These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on professional liability policies.Our Survey: Claims Process
3.9/5Our Survey: Recommend to Others
4.8/5
The Hartford
Runner-Up for Best Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.7/ 5
4.7/5Affordability
4.6/5Customer Experience
4.7/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Premium
$78These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on professional liability policies.Our Survey: Claims Process
4.5/5Our Survey: Recommend to Others
4.5/5
Cheapest Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Rhode Island
The Hartford offers the cheapest professional liability insurance in Rhode Island at $78 monthly ($942 annually). NEXT provides another affordable option for business owners at $80 per month.
| The Hartford | $78 | $942 |
| NEXT Insurance | $80 | $955 |
| Progressive Commercial | $83 | $991 |
| Thimble | $84 | $1,004 |
| Simply Business | $84 | $1,006 |
| Hiscox | $84 | $1,011 |
| Coverdash | $86 | $1,027 |
| biBERK | $88 | $1,051 |
| Nationwide | $90 | $1,084 |
| Chubb | $98 | $1,174 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are estimates based on MoneyGeek's proprietary analysis of small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries and should not be considered quotes. Your actual rate will differ based on business-specific factors. Contact insurers directly for accurate pricing tailored to your business needs.
Average Cost of Professional Liability Insurance in Rhode Island
Professional liability insurance costs $85 monthly ($1,024 annually) in Rhode Island, which is $7 more than the national average. Home-based businesses pay around $40 per month, while mortgage brokers average $182. Your location, claims history and coverage limits also influence rates.
| Accountants | $158 | $1,900 |
| Ad Agency | $108 | $1,297 |
| Auto Repair | $92 | $1,100 |
| Automotive | $82 | $984 |
| Bakery | $58 | $692 |
| Barber | $47 | $563 |
| Beauty Salon | $54 | $648 |
| Bounce House | $66 | $793 |
| Candle | $45 | $543 |
| Cannabis | $134 | $1,609 |
| Catering | $86 | $1,037 |
| Cleaning | $61 | $729 |
| Coffee Shop | $66 | $795 |
| Computer Programming | $113 | $1,358 |
| Computer Repair | $69 | $830 |
| Construction | $85 | $1,015 |
| Consulting | $118 | $1,419 |
| Contractor | $69 | $831 |
| Courier | $55 | $656 |
| DJ | $49 | $591 |
| Daycare | $119 | $1,431 |
| Dental | $92 | $1,103 |
| Dog Grooming | $61 | $737 |
| Drone | $117 | $1,403 |
| Ecommerce | $68 | $811 |
| Electrical | $71 | $846 |
| Engineering | $115 | $1,383 |
| Excavation | $74 | $891 |
| Florist | $42 | $504 |
| Food | $121 | $1,454 |
| Food Truck | $64 | $773 |
| Funeral Home | $89 | $1,073 |
| Gardening | $44 | $532 |
| HVAC | $89 | $1,067 |
| Handyman | $60 | $716 |
| Home-based business | $40 | $482 |
| Hospitality | $83 | $991 |
| Janitorial | $55 | $662 |
| Jewelry | $68 | $811 |
| Junk Removal | $73 | $881 |
| Lawn/Landscaping | $56 | $675 |
| Lawyers | $158 | $1,894 |
| Manufacturing | $66 | $787 |
| Marine | $98 | $1,176 |
| Massage | $118 | $1,415 |
| Mortgage Broker | $182 | $2,189 |
| Moving | $89 | $1,065 |
| Nonprofit | $55 | $664 |
| Painting | $69 | $829 |
| Party Rental | $61 | $728 |
| Personal Training | $77 | $921 |
| Pest Control | $103 | $1,242 |
| Pet | $51 | $606 |
| Pharmacy | $63 | $756 |
| Photography | $72 | $869 |
| Physical Therapy | $104 | $1,245 |
| Plumbing | $100 | $1,201 |
| Pressure Washing | $64 | $765 |
| Real Estate | $140 | $1,681 |
| Restaurant | $88 | $1,062 |
| Retail | $60 | $721 |
| Roofing | $106 | $1,267 |
| Security | $112 | $1,341 |
| Snack Bars | $52 | $618 |
| Software | $105 | $1,259 |
| Spa/Wellness | $121 | $1,452 |
| Speech Therapist | $108 | $1,292 |
| Startup | $79 | $949 |
| Tech/IT | $109 | $1,303 |
| Transportation | $104 | $1,252 |
| Travel | $106 | $1,277 |
| Tree Service | $84 | $1,003 |
| Trucking | $125 | $1,504 |
| Tutoring | $67 | $800 |
| Veterinary | $126 | $1,511 |
| Wedding Planning | $84 | $1,006 |
| Welding | $85 | $1,025 |
| Wholesale | $68 | $818 |
| Window Cleaning | $69 | $823 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are estimates based on MoneyGeek's proprietary analysis of small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries and should not be considered quotes. Your actual rate will differ based on business-specific factors. Contact insurers directly for accurate pricing tailored to your business needs.
How Much Professional Liability Insurance Do I Need in Rhode Island?
Professional liability insurance requirements differ by profession in Rhode Island. Health care providers and attorneys typically face stricter mandates than other fields. Even when coverage isn't legally required, the right amount depends on your risk exposure and clients' expectations. Many higher-risk professions carry at least $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate coverage.
Your coverage decision depends on three factors:
Your Industry Risk
Some industries in Rhode Island carry greater liability exposure than others, directly affecting coverage needs. Technology consultants in Providence and architects designing coastal properties face higher risks, so they need higher limits. Professional liability insurance for accountants in Warwick or real estate agents in smaller Rhode Island communities generally require less coverage. Your profession's claim frequency and severity should guide your coverage amount decisions.
Client Requirements
Many clients and contracts in Rhode Island require proof of professional liability insurance at specific minimum limits before work can begin. Large corporations, state government contracts, and major healthcare systems throughout Rhode Island typically demand coverage of $1 million or more. Meeting these requirements is essential for securing and maintaining business relationships with significant clients.
Potential Claim Costs
Your coverage should reflect the possible financial impact of a professional liability lawsuit in Rhode Island's legal environment. Small errors might result in damages of a few thousand dollars, while mistakes on major projects could lead to six-figure settlements plus legal fees exceeding $50,000. Consider both the size of your typical projects and worst-case scenario costs when selecting coverage limits.
How to Get the Best Professional Liability Insurance in Rhode Island
Our guide provides steps on how to get business insurance that fits your Rhode Island professional liability needs and budget.
- 1Evaluate Your Business Risks
Different professions face varying liability exposures in Rhode Island. A local architect typically needs higher coverage limits than an independent marketing consultant. Review your industry standards, client contract requirements, and potential claim scenarios to determine appropriate coverage amounts.
- 2Find a Knowledgeable Agent
Look for an agent who knows Rhode Island's business landscape and understands how business insurance costs vary by location and industry. Local agents understand which insurers work best with regional industries and can recommend coverage matching your professional risks and client expectations.
- 3Collect Multiple Quotes
Request quotes from at least three insurers, comparing affordable business insurance rates and policy terms like exclusions and deductibles. A $1 million policy from one carrier may offer different protection than another.
- 4Research Insurer Reliability
When researching Rhode Island business insurance, look beyond price. Strong financial ratings and claims-handling reputation matter more than low premiums alone. Check AM Best ratings, read professional reviews, and verify the insurer's experience with your industry. Reliable claim service protects your business when problems arise.
- 5Explore Bundling Options
Many insurers in Rhode Island offer discounts when you combine professional liability with other types of business insurance coverage, like general liability or business owner's policies. Bundling multiple coverages reduces overall costs while simplifying policy management and renewal processes.
- 6Maintain Continuous Protection
Professional liability operates on a claims-made basis, covering only claims filed while your policy remains active. When switching insurers, secure prior acts coverage or purchase tail insurance (extended reporting coverage) to avoid dangerous gaps in your protection.
How to Prevent Professional Liability Claims in Rhode Island
Most professional liability claims in Rhode Island result from poor communication and vague client expectations rather than actual mistakes. Even small disputes can cost thousands in legal fees. These proven strategies help Ocean State businesses prevent conflicts and avoid expensive claims.
Document Everything
Keep written proof of all client interactions, including email confirmations, scope changes and client approvals. This documentation creates a clear record of what was agreed upon, helping prevent disputes and providing protection if disagreements arise.
Use Detailed Contracts With Clear Scope
Draft contracts that clearly define your responsibilities, project timelines and specific deliverables. Outline what work is included and what falls outside the scope to avoid conflicts over additional services or unexpected costs.
Communicate Project Changes Immediately
Confirm all client-requested changes in writing before proceeding with the work. Document how these changes affect project timelines, budgets and final deliverables to prevent misunderstandings later.
Set Realistic Expectations Upfront
Be transparent about project timelines, potential challenges and expected results from the start. Honest communication about your capabilities helps avoid overpromising and reduces the likelihood of client disputes.
Keep Detailed Project Records
Maintain thorough records of all work performed, decisions made and the reasoning behind your professional choices. These records demonstrate your diligence and provide valuable protection if your work methods or results are later questioned.
Rhode Island Professional Liability: Bottom Line
Selecting professional liability insurance in Rhode Island begins with understanding your business risks and client needs. NEXT takes our top spot, but your industry, contract requirements, and budget matter most in your final choice. Assess your coverage needs first, then connect with a local agent to compare options that deliver strong financial protection for your business.
Rhode Island Professional Liability Insurance: FAQ
Here are frequently asked questions about professional liability insurance in Rhode Island.
What does professional liability insurance cost in Rhode Island?
Professional liability insurance in Rhode Island costs between $78 and $98 monthly, based on provider rates. Your actual premium depends on your industry's risk level, claims history, coverage limits and business location within the state.
Which professional liability insurance company is best in Rhode Island?
NEXT ranks as the top professional liability insurance provider in Rhode Island, scoring 4.71 out of 5 for its affordable rates and excellent customer service. The Hartford follows closely at second place with a 4.65 rating, while Simply Business rounds out the top three at 4.51, offering competitive coverage options for local professionals.
How much professional liability coverage do I need in Rhode Island?
Professional liability coverage needs in Rhode Island vary based on your industry's risk level, client contract demands and potential lawsuit expenses. High-risk professions like architects and consultants need higher coverage limits, while lower-risk businesses can often get by with smaller amounts.
Is there a difference between professional liability and E&O insurance?
Professional liability and errors and omissions (E&O) insurance both protect you from claims about mistakes in your professional services. Some industries prefer one term over the other, but the coverage works identically regardless of what you call it.
How We Scored the Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Rhode Island
A professional liability lawsuit can devastate a small business in Rhode Island, potentially forcing closure. We examined insurers throughout the state to identify which companies provide the most reliable financial protection for businesses from startups to well-established firms.
Our Evaluation Method
- Affordability (50%): Cost drives most small business insurance choices. We prioritized affordability because companies need comprehensive protection that fits their budget constraints.
- Customer experience (30%): Quality service during claims can make or break a business. We analyzed J.D. Power ratings alongside complaint records from the state's Department of Insurance.
- Coverage options (15%): We assessed policy adaptability and exclusions to ensure they serve the diverse needs of local professional services.
- Financial strength (5%): AM Best ratings confirmed each recommended insurer maintains the financial stability to honor claims when businesses need support most.
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!
He writes about economics and insurance, breaking down complex topics so people know what they're buying.
sources
- Alliance Health. "Provider Insurance Requirements." Accessed November 6, 2025.
- Better Business Bureau. "The Hartford Insurance Company | BBB Business Profile." Accessed November 6, 2025.