Catering Insurance: Essential Coverage for Food Vendors
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People think that to make it big in the food business, you just need great food and the right angle. While these matter, they’re not all you need.
Running a catering business requires as much prep work as it does good food. You plan menus, keep track of ingredients, and make sure each dish lives up to what your clients want.
But have you thought about what to do when things don’t go as planned?
That’s where catering insurance comes in handy. Without it, one accident could ruin your business. Here’s what you should know about catering insurance and why food vendors can’t do without it.
What Is Catering Insurance?
Catering insurance is business insurance designed to protect caterers from the financial risks associated with their work. As a caterer, you’re self-employed, which means you’re at a much higher risk than, say, someone working for an employer.
And while venues may have their own liability coverage, it likely won’t cover your business if something goes wrong. Most venues indemnify themselves against that sort of thing. That’s why having the right catering insurance is so important.
Risks of Not Having Catering Insurance
What happens if you don’t have catering insurance? The short answer: you’re on the hook for any damages, medical bills, or legal fees from an incident. Here are some scenarios that could spell disaster for an uninsured caterer:
Foodborne illness outbreak: If guests get sick after eating your food, you could be held liable for medical expenses and legal claims.
Property damage: If you damage a venue’s property while setting up or cooking, you might have to pay out of pocket for repairs.
Injuries at an event: If a guest or employee slips and falls due to a catering-related hazard, you could face an expensive lawsuit.
Equipment loss or damage: If your catering equipment is stolen or damaged in transit, replacing it could be expensive.
Liquor liability issues: If your catering business serves alcohol, you could be held responsible if a guest gets intoxicated and causes harm.
Benefits of Having Catering Insurance
Investing in catering insurance isn’t just about avoiding financial ruin—it also comes with major benefits:
More job opportunities: Many venues and event planners require caterers to carry insurance before they can be hired.
Peace of mind: You can focus on delivering great food and service rather than what might go wrong.
Financial protection: If something goes wrong, your policy can help cover medical bills, legal fees, and damages.
What Catering Insurance Do You Need?
Whether you’re catering a wedding, a corporate luncheon, or a private party, our catering insurance, powered by top national carriers, gives you total peace of mind, no matter the size of your business.
General Liability
Most venues require protection from guest injuries or property damage.
Product Liability Insurance
Protects against claims related to foodborne illnesses or allergic reactions caused by your food.
Liquor Liability Insurance
Required if you serve alcohol. Covers damages and legal fees if an intoxicated guest causes harm.
Professional Liability (E&O)
Covers claims of negligence or service mistakes, so you’re protected if things don’t go as planned.
Equipment Coverage
Covers loss, theft, or accidental damage to your catering gear and supplies.
Theft, Vandalism & Spoilage
Safeguards you from losses caused by stolen equipment, property damage, or food spoilage from power outages or equipment failure.
How Much Coverage Should You Buy?
General Liability Insurance
Most caterers carry at least $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate coverage.
Liquor Liability Insurance
If you serve alcohol, $1 million is a common minimum requirement.
Product Liability Insurance
Coverage should match your general liability limits.
Property and Equipment Coverage
The amount should reflect the total value of your business assets.
State Requirements
Since insurance requirements vary by state, it’s a good idea to know what your state requires.
Coverage descriptions, premiums, and costs on this site are for informational purposes only and are not guaranteed. Final pricing and eligibility are determined at the time of quoting and underwriting. Coverage is subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Availability may vary by state or business type.
What Does Catering Insurance Not Cover?
While catering insurance covers many risks, it doesn’t cover everything. Here are some common exclusions:
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Auto Accidents
You’ll need commercial auto insurance for any business-related driving incidents.
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Workers’ Compensation Claims
Unless you specifically purchase workers’ comp coverage, injuries to employees won’t be covered (and they can sue your business directly).
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Employment-Related Claims
Claims related to discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination require separate employment practices liability insurance.
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Intentional Acts
Any damages or injuries caused deliberately won’t be covered by your policy.
Frequently Asked Questions for Catering Insurance
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