NEXT offers Washington's best professional liability insurance, combining affordable rates with strong customer service. The Hartford ranks second overall, while Simply Business takes third place.
Professional Liability Insurance in Washington
NEXT earns the highest score of 4.69 out of 5 in our analysis of the best professional liability insurance in Washington.
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Updated: October 28, 2025
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Best Professional Liability Insurance in Washington: Key Takeaways
NEXT is our top pick for professional liability insurance in Washington, followed by The Hartford and Simply Business.
Your industry risk, client contracts, potential claim costs and budget determine the best Washington 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 needs in Washington.
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Select your industry and state to get a customized quote.
Industry
State
Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Washington
| NEXT Insurance | 4.69 | $83 |
| The Hartford | 4.66 | $81 |
| Simply Business | 4.49 | $87 |
| Nationwide | 4.45 | $93 |
| biBERK | 4.43 | $90 |
| Coverdash | 4.43 | $89 |
| Progressive Commercial | 4.37 | $86 |
| Hiscox | 4.35 | $88 |
| Chubb | 4.27 | $101 |
| Thimble | 4.20 | $87 |
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 alone won't cover all business risks in Washington. Other coverage types work together to create comprehensive financial protection for small businesses.
Best Washington 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 Washington businesses.
NEXT
Overall Best Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.7/ 5
4.6/5Affordability
4.7/5Customer Experience
4.8/5Coverage Points
Average Monthly Premium
$83These 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 Points
Average Monthly Premium
$81These 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 Washington
The Hartford offers the cheapest professional liability insurance in Washington at $81 monthly ($977 annually). NEXT provides another budget-friendly option for business owners at $83 per month.
| The Hartford | $81 | $977 |
| NEXT Insurance | $83 | $997 |
| Progressive Commercial | $86 | $1,028 |
| Thimble | $87 | $1,041 |
| Simply Business | $87 | $1,043 |
| Hiscox | $88 | $1,052 |
| Coverdash | $89 | $1,065 |
| biBERK | $90 | $1,078 |
| Nationwide | $93 | $1,122 |
| Chubb | $101 | $1,210 |
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 Washington
Professional liability insurance costs $88 monthly ($1,061 annually) in Washington, which is $10 more than the national average. Home-based businesses pay around $42 per month, while mortgage brokers average $189. Your location, claims history and coverage limits also affect rates.
| Accountants | $169 | $2,025 |
| Ad Agency | $113 | $1,355 |
| Auto Repair | $94 | $1,127 |
| Automotive | $85 | $1,024 |
| Bakery | $60 | $718 |
| Barber | $49 | $585 |
| Beauty Salon | $56 | $671 |
| Bounce House | $68 | $811 |
| Candle | $48 | $573 |
| Cannabis | $142 | $1,704 |
| Catering | $91 | $1,090 |
| Cleaning | $61 | $730 |
| Coffee Shop | $71 | $847 |
| Computer Programming | $117 | $1,403 |
| Computer Repair | $70 | $843 |
| Construction | $87 | $1,048 |
| Consulting | $122 | $1,460 |
| Contractor | $72 | $861 |
| Courier | $56 | $677 |
| DJ | $51 | $607 |
| Daycare | $122 | $1,458 |
| Dental | $96 | $1,154 |
| Dog Grooming | $62 | $739 |
| Drone | $122 | $1,466 |
| Ecommerce | $69 | $834 |
| Electrical | $73 | $871 |
| Engineering | $119 | $1,429 |
| Excavation | $78 | $932 |
| Florist | $43 | $513 |
| Food | $127 | $1,521 |
| Food Truck | $67 | $807 |
| Funeral Home | $93 | $1,113 |
| Gardening | $46 | $548 |
| HVAC | $93 | $1,116 |
| Handyman | $62 | $748 |
| Home-based business | $42 | $502 |
| Hospitality | $83 | $996 |
| Janitorial | $56 | $676 |
| Jewelry | $71 | $851 |
| Junk Removal | $76 | $912 |
| Lawn/Landscaping | $60 | $719 |
| Lawyers | $163 | $1,960 |
| Manufacturing | $69 | $831 |
| Marine | $100 | $1,204 |
| Massage | $121 | $1,452 |
| Mortgage Broker | $189 | $2,269 |
| Moving | $96 | $1,147 |
| Nonprofit | $56 | $677 |
| Painting | $74 | $886 |
| Party Rental | $63 | $756 |
| Personal Training | $80 | $960 |
| Pest Control | $111 | $1,336 |
| Pet | $53 | $634 |
| Pharmacy | $65 | $784 |
| Photography | $71 | $852 |
| Physical Therapy | $106 | $1,273 |
| Plumbing | $101 | $1,212 |
| Pressure Washing | $66 | $792 |
| Real Estate | $143 | $1,716 |
| Restaurant | $92 | $1,109 |
| Retail | $62 | $748 |
| Roofing | $112 | $1,350 |
| Security | $114 | $1,370 |
| Snack Bars | $55 | $655 |
| Software | $110 | $1,320 |
| Spa/Wellness | $127 | $1,522 |
| Speech Therapist | $115 | $1,375 |
| Startup | $83 | $991 |
| Tech/IT | $110 | $1,317 |
| Transportation | $107 | $1,281 |
| Travel | $110 | $1,317 |
| Tree Service | $86 | $1,029 |
| Trucking | $126 | $1,507 |
| Tutoring | $68 | $813 |
| Veterinary | $130 | $1,560 |
| Wedding Planning | $87 | $1,048 |
| Welding | $86 | $1,033 |
| Wholesale | $71 | $846 |
| Window Cleaning | $71 | $849 |
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 Washington?
Professional liability insurance requirements differ by profession in Washington, with some fields like health care and law facing stricter mandates than others. Even when not legally required, your coverage amount should reflect your risk exposure and client 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 Washington carry greater liability exposure than others due to the nature of their work and potential for costly mistakes. Technology consultants and software developers in Seattle and Bellevue face higher risks from data breaches or system failures, while architects designing earthquake-resistant buildings carry significant exposure. Both need higher limits. In contrast, professional liability insurance for accountants in Spokane or real estate agents in smaller Washington towns typically face lower liability risks and can do with less coverage.
Client Requirements
Many clients and contracts in Washington require proof of professional liability insurance at specific minimum limits before work can begin. Large corporations, government contracts, and major organizations throughout the state often mandate coverage of $1 million or more. Meeting these requirements is essential for securing business opportunities, especially with Washington's numerous government agencies and Fortune 500 companies.
Potential Claim Costs
Your coverage should reflect the possible financial impact of a professional liability lawsuit in Washington's legal environment. Small errors might result in minor penalties or corrections, while mistakes on larger projects could lead to six-figure damages and legal fees. For example, a design flaw in a Seattle high-rise or a data security breach affecting thousands of customers could generate substantial claims that far exceed basic coverage limits.
How to Get the Best Professional Liability Insurance in Washington
Our step-by-step guide explains how to get business insurance in Washington that matches your professional liability needs and budget.
- 1Evaluate Your Risk Exposure
Different businesses face varying liability risks in Washington. A regional architecture firm typically needs higher coverage limits than an independent marketing consultant. Review your industry standards and any specific coverage requirements outlined in client contracts.
- 2Partner with Local Agents
Look for an agent who knows Washington's business landscape and understands how business insurance costs vary by location and industry. Local expertise helps match your coverage to regional industry demands and state regulations. They understand which insurers work best with Washington businesses.
- 3Compare Multiple Insurance 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 from one carrier may offer different protection than another.
- 4Research Insurer Financial Strength
When researching business insurance in Washington, look beyond price. Investigate each company's AM Best rating and claims handling reputation. Strong financial ratings indicate the insurer can pay claims when needed. Read reviews from other professionals in your industry for additional insights.
- 5Explore Bundling Opportunities
Many Washington insurers offer discounts when buy several types of business insurance coverage from the same carrier. For example, combining professional liability with general liability or business owner's policies often reduces overall costs while simplifying your insurance management.
- 6Maintain Continuous Policy Coverage
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 coverage to avoid dangerous protection gaps.
How to Prevent Professional Liability Claims in Washington
Many professional liability claims happen because of miscommunication and unclear client expectations, not actual mistakes. Even small disputes can lead to thousands in legal fees. Use these strategies to avoid problems and protect your business from expensive claims.
Document Everything
Keep written proof of all client interactions, including email confirmations, scope changes and client approvals. This documentation helps prevent disputes by providing a clear record of what was agreed upon. Having detailed records protects your business if disagreements arise about project requirements or deliverables.
Use Detailed Contracts with Clear Scope
Create contracts that define responsibilities, timelines and deliverables in specific terms. Outline what work is included and what falls outside the project scope to avoid conflicts over additional tasks. Clear boundaries help prevent scope creep and protect against claims of incomplete or inadequate service.
Communicate Project Changes Immediately
Confirm all client-requested changes in writing before moving forward with new work. Document how these changes affect timelines, budgets and final deliverables. This practice ensures both parties understand the impact of modifications and prevents disputes over unexpected costs or delays.
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 client disappointment. Setting achievable goals protects against claims that you failed to deliver promised outcomes.
Keep Detailed Project Records
Maintain thorough records of all work performed, decisions made and the reasoning behind your professional choices. This documentation demonstrates your diligence and adherence to industry standards. Detailed records provide strong protection if your work methods or conclusions are questioned later.
Washington Professional Liability: Bottom Line
Professional liability insurance selection in Washington begins with understanding your business risks and client demands. NEXT takes our top spot, but your industry type, contract requirements and budget matter most in your final choice. Start by evaluating your specific needs, then work with a local agent to compare coverage options that deliver solid financial protection.
Washington Professional Liability Insurance: FAQ
Here are frequently asked questions about professional liability insurance in Washington.
What does professional liability insurance cost in Washington?
Professional liability insurance in Washington ranges from $81 to $101 monthly. Your actual premium depends on your industry's risk level, claims history, coverage limits and business location, with rates varying between providers.
Which professional liability insurance company is best in Washington?
NEXT ranks as the top professional liability insurance provider in Washington state, scoring 4.69 out of 5 for its affordable rates and excellent customer service. The Hartford follows closely at 4.66, while Simply Business rounds out the top three at 4.49, both offering solid coverage options for local businesses.
How much professional liability coverage do I need in Washington?
Professional liability coverage needs in Washington 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 businesses in lower-risk fields may require less comprehensive protection to safeguard their operations adequately.
How are professional liability and E&O insurance different?
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 Washington
A professional liability lawsuit can destroy a small business in Washington 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 established firms.
Our Scoring System
- Affordability (50%): Cost drives most small business insurance choices. We gave affordability the highest weight because businesses need strong coverage that fits their budget constraints.
- Customer experience (30%): Quick, helpful service matters when facing a liability claim. We analyzed J.D. Power ratings and complaint records from the Washington Department of Insurance to measure service quality.
- Coverage options (15%): We reviewed policy flexibility and exclusions to ensure they work for the state's diverse professional services market.
- Financial strength (5%): We used AM Best financial ratings to confirm each insurer has the stability to pay professional liability 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.