You’ve built something valuable: your business! Whether you’re running a coffee shop, contracting company, salon, or small retail space in Middle Tennessee, one accident, fire, or lawsuit could put everything at risk.
That’s where business insurance comes in.
But most business owners either don’t have the right coverage or don’t know what their policy actually includes. At Holt Insurance, we help local business owners simplify their protection and avoid surprises.
Click here to get a free risk review for your business »
Or call (615) 230-7704 to talk with a local agent who understands how small businesses operate in Tennessee.
Here’s a quick guide to the most important types of business insurance and how to tell if you’re covered properly.
1. General Liability Insurance
What it covers:
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Bodily injury or property damage to others
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Legal defense costs if you’re sued
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Things like slip-and-fall accidents or client property damage
Who needs it:
Every business. It’s the foundation of commercial protection and usually required by landlords, vendors, and contracts.
2. Commercial Property Insurance
What it covers:
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Your building (if owned)
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Contents: inventory, equipment, furniture, signage, etc.
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Losses from fire, theft, vandalism, or storms
Tip: Even if you rent your space, you still need property coverage for everything inside.
3. Business Owner's Policy
What it is:
A bundled policy that combines General Liability + Property Insurance in one package, often at a lower price.
Best for:
Small to medium-sized businesses with a physical location.
4. Workers’ Compensation Insurance
What it covers:
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Medical costs and lost wages if an employee gets injured on the job
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Protects you from lawsuits related to workplace injuries
Tennessee law requires workers’ comp if you have 5 or more employees, but it’s smart to carry even with fewer.
5. Commercial Auto Insurance
What it covers:
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Liability and physical damage to business-owned vehicles
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Employees driving for deliveries, transport, or job site work
Important: A personal auto policy likely won’t cover accidents if the vehicle is used for business.
6. Professional Liability (E&O)
What it covers:
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Mistakes, bad advice, or service errors that cause financial harm to a client
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Defense costs and settlements if you’re sued
Ideal for:
Consultants, accountants, real estate agents, designers, and anyone offering advice or professional services.
7. Cyber Liability Insurance
What it covers:
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Data breaches
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Hacked customer records
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Ransomware attacks
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Legal costs, customer notification, and recovery
If you store customer data online, even just emails or payment info, this is now essential.
Bonus Coverage to Consider:
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Business Interruption Insurance: Covers lost income after a covered disaster (like a fire)
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Tools & Equipment Coverage: Great for contractors or mobile businesses
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Employment Practices Liability (EPLI): Covers employee lawsuits related to hiring, harassment, or termination
How to Know If You’re Covered Properly
Ask yourself:
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Could I afford to replace everything in my space tomorrow?
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What happens if I’m sued over an accident, service, or product?
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If I had to shut down for 2 weeks, could I recover financially?
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Are my employees or contractors properly protected?
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Do my contracts or leases require specific coverages?
If you’re unsure on any of these, it’s time to review your coverage.
Let’s Make It Easy
At Holt Insurance TN, we’ll walk through your business your risks, your goals, and your contracts and tailor a policy that fits what you actually need.
We work with multiple top-rated carriers to get you better coverage at a competitive price.
Request a Business Insurance Review Today
Click here to get a free risk review for your business »
Or call (615) 230-7704 to talk with a local agent who understands how small businesses operate in Tennessee.
About Holt Insurance TN
Serving Gallatin and Middle Tennessee since 1881, Holt Insurance provides personalized coverage for businesses of all sizes, from one-person shops to growing operations. Independent. Experienced. Local.
Have a question on this topic?
Call 615-230-7704— we answer.