Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) Insurance in California
As Low As $94/month

What does a business owner’s policy (BOP) cover?

Three things in one policy: general liability for injuries and damage your business causes, property coverage for your building, equipment and inventory, and business income coverage if a covered loss forces you to close for a while.

How much does a BOP cost for a small business in California?

At MIS, a business owner’s policy starts as low as $94 a month. Prices vary with your type of business, your location, the value of your property and the limits you choose.

What types of small businesses qualify for a BOP?

Most small businesses with an office, a shop or a storefront qualify, including retail stores, restaurants, offices, salons and service businesses. See the list of businesses we insure on this page.

Is a BOP required by law in California?

No law requires it. Landlords, lenders and client contracts often do require the liability and property coverage a BOP provides, so many businesses cannot open without it.

What is the difference between a BOP and general liability insurance?

General liability covers claims from other people, such as a customer who slips in your shop. A BOP includes that same liability coverage and adds coverage for your own property and your lost income. If you have equipment, inventory or a space to protect, a BOP usually costs less than buying the pieces one at a time. See general liability insurance.

What does a BOP not cover?

Employee injuries, which need workers’ compensation. Vehicles, which need commercial auto insurance. Professional mistakes, which need professional liability. Floods and earthquakes also need separate policies.

Does a BOP cover business property, equipment, inventory and supplies?

Yes. A BOP covers the business property you own or lease, including equipment, furniture, inventory and supplies, and the building too if you own it.

Does a BOP include business interruption and lost income coverage?

Yes. If a covered loss such as a fire forces you to close, business income coverage helps replace the income you lose and pay ongoing bills like rent and payroll while you get back on your feet.

How much BOP coverage does my business need?

Enough to replace your property and to handle a serious lawsuit. Many small businesses carry $1,000,000 in liability because landlords and contracts ask for it. We set the property limit from what it would cost to replace what you own.

Does a BOP cover customer injuries and property damage claims?

Yes. The liability part of a BOP pays for injuries to customers and damage to other people’s property, including the cost of defending you if you are sued.

Does a BOP cover fire, theft, vandalism and water damage?

Yes for fire, theft and vandalism. Sudden water damage such as a burst pipe is typically covered too. Flooding is not.

Does a BOP cover earthquake or flood damage in California?

No. Both are excluded and need separate coverage.

Does a BOP include workers’ compensation insurance?

No. Workers’ compensation is a separate policy, and California requires it if you have even one employee. See workers’ compensation insurance.

Does a BOP cover a home-based business?

It can. Many home-based businesses qualify for a BOP, and a homeowners policy usually covers very little business property or business liability.

Can I get a BOP if I rent my business space?

Yes. If you rent, the BOP covers your equipment, inventory and the improvements you made to the space, and it gives your landlord the proof of liability insurance most leases require.

What factors affect the cost of a BOP in California?

Your type of business, your location, the value of your property, your annual sales, your claims history, and the limits and deductible you choose.

How does the deductible on a BOP work?

The deductible is the part of a property claim you pay before the policy pays the rest. A higher deductible lowers your price. Liability claims usually have no deductible.

Can I add cyber liability, professional liability or other coverage to my BOP?

Often, yes. Many insurance companies let you add coverages such as cyber liability or equipment breakdown to a BOP. Professional liability is usually its own policy. Tell us what you need and we will price it.

Does a BOP cover my business vehicles?

No. Vehicles used for the business need a commercial auto policy. See commercial auto insurance.

I am just starting my business. Can I get a BOP?

Yes. New businesses can get a BOP. Tell us what you do, where you operate and what you expect to bring in during your first year.

How do I get a BOP quote and compare insurance companies in California?

Fill out the quote form on this page or call (800) 726-0640. We compare insurance companies for your type of business and come back with your options.

How do I file a BOP claim?

Report it to your insurance company as soon as the loss happens, take photos and keep your receipts. Call us if you want help. How long payment takes depends on the size and type of the claim.