NEXT offers the best professional liability insurance in South Carolina, with affordable rates and strong customer service. The Hartford ranks second overall, while Simply Business takes third place.
Professional Liability Insurance in South Carolina
NEXT earns the highest score of 4.72 out of 5 in our analysis of the best professional liability insurance in South Carolina.
Get matched to the top professional liability insurance providers for your business in South Carolina.
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Updated: October 28, 2025
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Best Professional Liability Insurance in South Carolina: Key Takeaways
NEXT is our top pick for professional liability insurance in South Carolina, followed by The Hartford and Simply Business.
Your industry risks, client contracts, potential claim costs and budget determine the best South Carolina professional liability insurance for you.
Assess your needs first, then compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best professional liability insurance in South Carolina.
Find Insurance for Your Business
Select your industry and state to get a customized quote.
Industry
State
Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in South Carolina
| NEXT Insurance | 4.72 | $75 |
| The Hartford | 4.62 | $73 |
| Simply Business | 4.52 | $79 |
| Nationwide | 4.45 | $85 |
| Coverdash | 4.45 | $80 |
| biBERK | 4.44 | $82 |
| Progressive Commercial | 4.39 | $77 |
| Hiscox | 4.36 | $79 |
| Chubb | 4.28 | $91 |
| Thimble | 4.25 | $78 |
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 is just one part of a complete business insurance strategy. Other coverage types work together to shield South Carolina businesses from various financial risks.
Best South Carolina 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 South Carolina businesses.
NEXT
Overall Best Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.7/ 5
4.7/5Affordability
4.7/5Customer Experience
4.8/5Coverage Points
Average Monthly Premium
$75These 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
4.6/ 5
4.6/5Affordability
4.6/5Customer Experience
4.7/5Coverage Points
Average Monthly Premium
$73These 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 South Carolina
The Hartford provides the cheapest professional liability insurance in South Carolina at $73 monthly ($878 annually). NEXT offers another affordable option for business owners, with coverage starting at $75 per month.
| The Hartford | $73 | $878 |
| NEXT Insurance | $75 | $896 |
| Progressive Commercial | $77 | $929 |
| Thimble | $78 | $938 |
| Simply Business | $79 | $942 |
| Hiscox | $79 | $952 |
| Coverdash | $80 | $960 |
| biBERK | $82 | $981 |
| Nationwide | $85 | $1,015 |
| Chubb | $91 | $1,096 |
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 South Carolina
Professional liability insurance costs $80 monthly ($959 annually) in South Carolina, which is $2 more than the national average. Home-based businesses pay around $38 per month, while mortgage brokers average $171. Your location, claims history and coverage limits also influence rates.
| Accountants | $151 | $1,815 |
| Ad Agency | $100 | $1,197 |
| Auto Repair | $85 | $1,021 |
| Automotive | $78 | $937 |
| Bakery | $54 | $653 |
| Barber | $44 | $527 |
| Beauty Salon | $51 | $607 |
| Bounce House | $62 | $739 |
| Candle | $44 | $532 |
| Cannabis | $127 | $1,522 |
| Catering | $83 | $992 |
| Cleaning | $57 | $682 |
| Coffee Shop | $63 | $758 |
| Computer Programming | $108 | $1,299 |
| Computer Repair | $65 | $782 |
| Construction | $79 | $953 |
| Consulting | $108 | $1,297 |
| Contractor | $64 | $765 |
| Courier | $51 | $614 |
| DJ | $46 | $550 |
| Daycare | $113 | $1,351 |
| Dental | $86 | $1,029 |
| Dog Grooming | $57 | $678 |
| Drone | $109 | $1,306 |
| Ecommerce | $64 | $762 |
| Electrical | $66 | $787 |
| Engineering | $108 | $1,291 |
| Excavation | $70 | $846 |
| Florist | $39 | $465 |
| Food | $112 | $1,341 |
| Food Truck | $60 | $723 |
| Funeral Home | $82 | $983 |
| Gardening | $41 | $490 |
| HVAC | $84 | $1,005 |
| Handyman | $56 | $669 |
| Home-based business | $38 | $457 |
| Hospitality | $75 | $897 |
| Janitorial | $51 | $614 |
| Jewelry | $64 | $773 |
| Junk Removal | $70 | $838 |
| Lawn/Landscaping | $52 | $630 |
| Lawyers | $151 | $1,810 |
| Manufacturing | $62 | $742 |
| Marine | $91 | $1,094 |
| Massage | $108 | $1,301 |
| Mortgage Broker | $171 | $2,048 |
| Moving | $85 | $1,020 |
| Nonprofit | $52 | $624 |
| Painting | $67 | $800 |
| Party Rental | $56 | $669 |
| Personal Training | $71 | $856 |
| Pest Control | $97 | $1,159 |
| Pet | $47 | $563 |
| Pharmacy | $58 | $701 |
| Photography | $65 | $778 |
| Physical Therapy | $96 | $1,149 |
| Plumbing | $93 | $1,118 |
| Pressure Washing | $59 | $703 |
| Real Estate | $129 | $1,544 |
| Restaurant | $83 | $1,000 |
| Retail | $55 | $661 |
| Roofing | $100 | $1,198 |
| Security | $101 | $1,217 |
| Snack Bars | $49 | $585 |
| Software | $99 | $1,184 |
| Spa/Wellness | $114 | $1,369 |
| Speech Therapist | $104 | $1,244 |
| Startup | $74 | $889 |
| Tech/IT | $103 | $1,237 |
| Transportation | $99 | $1,191 |
| Travel | $101 | $1,210 |
| Tree Service | $77 | $921 |
| Trucking | $117 | $1,398 |
| Tutoring | $64 | $763 |
| Veterinary | $119 | $1,425 |
| Wedding Planning | $78 | $938 |
| Welding | $78 | $942 |
| Wholesale | $63 | $751 |
| Window Cleaning | $64 | $772 |
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 South Carolina?
Professional liability insurance requirements depend on your specific profession in South Carolina. Health care workers, attorneys and certain licensed professionals face mandatory coverage rules, while other industries rely on client contracts or voluntary protection. Even without legal requirements, the right coverage amount comes down to your risk exposure and what clients expect. Many professionals carry $1 million per occurrence with $3 million aggregate limits as a baseline.
Your coverage decision depends on three factors:
Your Industry Risk
Some industries in South Carolina carry greater liability exposure than others, directly affecting your coverage needs. Technology consultants in Charleston's growing tech sector and architects designing major developments face higher risks and require more coverage. Professional liability insurance for accountants in smaller cities like Spartanburg or real estate agents in Columbia face less risk. Your industry's typical claim frequency and severity should guide your coverage limits.
Client Requirements
Many clients and contracts in South Carolina require proof of professional liability insurance at specific minimum limits before work begins. Large corporations, government contracts, and healthcare systems often mandate $1 million to $2 million in coverage, regardless of your business size. Meeting these requirements is essential for securing and maintaining valuable client relationships.
Potential Claim Costs
Your coverage should reflect the possible financial impact of a professional liability lawsuit in South Carolina's legal environment. Minor errors might result in claims of $10,000 to $50,000, while mistakes on larger projects could lead to six-figure damages plus legal defense costs ranging from $50,000 to $200,000. Consider both the size of your typical projects and the potential ripple effects of professional errors.
How to Get the Best Professional Liability Insurance in South Carolina
Our step-by-step process walks you though how to get business insurance that's right for your budget and professional liability needs in South Carolina.
- 1Assess Your Coverage Needs
Start by evaluating your business risks and client contract requirements in South Carolina. A regional architecture firm typically needs higher limits than an independent marketing consultant. Your coverage amount depends on industry exposure and the specific demands of your professional services.
- 2Partner With Local Agents
Look for an agent who knows South Carolina's business landscape and understands how business insurance costs vary by location and industry. Local expertise helps you select coverage that matches common industry practices and client expectations across the state. They know which insurers work best for South Carolina professionals.
- 3Gather Multiple Quotes
Request quotes from at least three insurers, comparing affordable business insurance rates and policy terms like exclusions and deductibles. A $1,000,000 policy can vary in actual protection depending on the specific terms and conditions.
- 4Research Provider Reputation
When researching business insurance in South Carolina, look beyond price. Investigate each insurer's financial stability through AM Best ratings and claims handling reputation. Strong ratings indicate the company can pay claims when needed. Professional reviews and industry feedback reveal how well insurers support businesses during actual claim situations.
- 5Explore Bundling Options
Many insurers in the state offer discounts when you combine professional liability with different types of business insurance coverage, such as general liability or business owner's policies. Bundling often reduces overall costs while simplifying policy management. These package deals can make comprehensive protection more affordable for small businesses.
- 6Maintain Continuous Coverage
Professional liability operates on a claims-made basis, meaning your policy must be active when someone files a claim against you. Coverage gaps leave you completely unprotected from past work. Always secure prior acts coverage or purchase tail coverage when switching insurance carriers.
How to Prevent Professional Liability Claims in South Carolina
Most professional liability claims in South Carolina stem from poor communication and vague client expectations rather than actual mistakes. Small disputes can still cost thousands in legal fees. These proven strategies help businesses prevent conflicts and avoid expensive claims.
Document Everything
Keep written records of all client interactions, including email confirmations, scope changes and project approvals. This documentation creates a clear trail of what was agreed upon and helps prevent disputes. Having detailed records protects your business when questions arise about project decisions or deliverables.
Use Detailed Contracts With Clear Scope
Create contracts that clearly define your responsibilities, project timelines and specific deliverables. Include detailed descriptions of what work is included and what falls outside the project scope to avoid confusion. Well-defined contracts prevent conflicts over additional work requests and protect both parties.
Communicate Project Changes Immediately
Always confirm client-requested changes in writing before proceeding with any modifications. Document how these changes will affect project timelines, budgets and final deliverables. This practice ensures everyone understands the impact of changes and prevents disputes later.
Set Realistic Expectations Upfront
Be transparent with clients 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 disappointment. Clear expectations create stronger professional relationships and fewer disputes.
Keep Detailed Project Records
Maintain thorough documentation of all work performed, decisions made and the reasoning behind your professional choices. These records demonstrate your diligence and professional standards to clients and regulatory bodies. Comprehensive project files provide strong protection if your work is questioned or challenged.
South Carolina Professional Liability: Bottom Line
Professional liability insurance decisions in South Carolina begin with understanding your business risks. NEXT leads our rankings, but your industry requirements, client contracts and budget matter more than ratings alone. Assess your coverage needs first, then connect with a local agent to compare affordable options that deliver solid financial protection for your business.
South Carolina Professional Liability Insurance: FAQ
Here are frequently asked questions about professional liability insurance in South Carolina.
What does professional liability insurance cost in South Carolina?
Professional liability insurance in South Carolina costs between $73 and $91 monthly, depending on your provider. Your premium varies based on your industry's risk level, claims history, coverage limits and business location within the state.
Which professional liability insurance company is best in South Carolina?
NEXT takes the top spot for professional liability insurance in South Carolina, scoring 4.72 out of 5 for its affordable rates and strong customer service. The Hartford ranks second with a 4.62 rating, while Simply Business rounds out the top three at 4.52, providing solid coverage options for local professionals.
How much professional liability coverage do I need in South Carolina?
Professional liability coverage amounts in South Carolina depend on your industry's risk level, client contract requirements, and potential lawsuit costs. Higher-risk professions like architects and consultants need larger coverage limits, while lower-risk businesses may require less protection to adequately safeguard their operations.
Is there a difference between professional liability and E&O insurance?
Professional liability and errors and omissions (E&O) insurance are two names for the same coverage. Both protect you from claims about mistakes in your services. Some industries prefer one term, but they work the same way.
How We Scored the Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in South Carolina
A professional liability lawsuit can destroy a small business in South Carolina or force it to close permanently. We evaluated insurers across the state to identify which companies provide the most reliable financial protection for businesses from new startups to well-established firms.
Our Scoring System
- Affordability (50%): Cost drives most small business insurance choices. We gave affordability the highest weight because finding quality coverage within budget is essential for business survival.
- Customer experience (30%): Professional liability claims create major stress for business owners. We analyzed service quality through J.D. Power ratings and complaint records from the South Carolina Department of Insurance.
- Coverage options (15%): We reviewed policy flexibility and exclusions to ensure they work for the wide range of professional services operating locally.
- Financial strength (5%): AM Best financial ratings helped us confirm each recommended insurer maintains the stability needed to pay claims when businesses need it 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 14, 2025.
- Better Business Bureau. "The Hartford Insurance Company | BBB Business Profile." Accessed November 14, 2025.