Professional Liability Insurance Virginia

Independent insurance agency

Professional Liability Insurance in Virginia

Discover hassle-free access to affordable, high-quality professional liability insurance with Jenkins Insurance & Financial Services, Inc.

Insurance Quotes

Start Your Quote for Professional Liability Insurance


What is professional liability insurance?

Professional liability insurance is a type of commercial insurance designed to protect professionals and businesses from claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in the services they provide. This coverage helps safeguard against financial losses that may arise from lawsuits or claims filed by clients or third parties who allege that the professional’s actions caused them harm.

Why is professional liability insurance important?

Professional liability insurance is crucial for businesses and individuals in Virginia because it provides protection against the financial risks of errors or negligence in professional services. Whether you’re a consultant, lawyer, architect, or healthcare provider, mistakes can happen, and clients may file claims alleging financial losses due to those errors. Professional liability insurance helps cover the costs of defending against these claims, including legal fees, settlements, or judgments. This coverage not only safeguards personal and business assets but also enhances credibility, as clients are more likely to trust professionals who have insurance in place.

Additionally, in many fields, carrying professional liability insurance is a requirement for licensure or contracts, ensuring compliance and securing more opportunities for business growth. Ultimately, it allows professionals to focus on their work with confidence, knowing they have protection against the unpredictable nature of client claims.

Client Reviews

The work I did with Jenkins Insurance covered multiple policies, for vehicles and residence, covering several autos and drivers, and was complex and multi-faceted. Tammy worked with me to make sure everything was in order and on time (even with changing deadlines).

Charles G, Google Review

Whenever we need to update our policy because of buying a new car or some other change Mackenzie has been efficient and even sent me copies of the new policy because it wasn’t convenient for me to get them online. Tammy checked our policies (home, auto, and umbrella) and applied a discount so we are paying less per month. Very good agency.

Ann S, Google Review

You have always been there to take care of my needs, answering my questions and keeping me “covered”! I thank you for that!!

Carolyn S, Google Review
Professional Liability Insurance Virginia

Who needs professional liability coverage insurance?

Professionals across various industries need professional liability insurance, especially those who provide specialized services or advice. This includes healthcare providers, such as doctors and nurses, who may face malpractice claims, as well as lawyers, accountants, consultants, architects, and engineers whose work involves significant decision-making or advice that clients rely on. 

Even professionals in creative fields, like designers and marketers, can benefit from this coverage if a client claims that their work led to financial losses or failed to meet expectations. Essentially, anyone whose job involves providing expertise or services that could potentially lead to client dissatisfaction, errors, or negligence claims should consider professional liability coverage to protect their reputation, financial stability, and career.

Professional liability insurance in Virginia typically covers several key areas, including:

  1. Negligence: Protects against claims of failure to provide services that meet professional standards, resulting in client financial loss or harm.
  2. Errors and Omissions: Covers mistakes or oversights made while delivering professional services.
  3. Legal Defense Costs: Pays for legal fees and court costs associated with defending against a claim, regardless of whether the professional is at fault.
  4. Settlements and Judgments: Helps cover the cost of settlements or court-ordered judgments if the professional is found liable.
  5. Breach of Contract: Provides coverage if a client claims that the professional did not fulfill the terms of a contract.
  6. Misrepresentation: Covers claims related to providing inaccurate or misleading information to clients.
  7. Libel or Slander: Protects against claims of defamation made by a client based on professional actions or communications.

These areas ensure professionals are safeguarded against financial losses due to claims stemming from their work.

Yes, professional liability insurance can cover past services, but this depends on the policy’s retroactive date and whether it is a claims-made policy. In a claims-made policy, which is common for professional liability insurance, coverage is triggered by when the claim is filed, not when the service was provided. If the claim relates to work done after the retroactive date (the date from which the policy applies), it can be covered even if the service was performed before the current policy period. However, if the retroactive date is after the service was provided, or if the policy has lapsed, the claim may not be covered. It’s important to maintain continuous coverage to ensure protection for past services.

Yes, independent contractors in Virginia need their own professional liability policies. Since they work as self-employed individuals, they are personally responsible for any errors, omissions, or negligence claims that may arise from the services they provide. Without the protection of a professional liability policy, independent contractors could face significant financial risks, including legal defense costs, settlements, or judgments if a client files a claim against them. Additionally, many clients and businesses may require independent contractors to carry professional liability insurance before entering into contracts, as it demonstrates professionalism and provides mutual protection. Having their own policy ensures that independent contractors are financially safeguarded and can operate their businesses with confidence.

Yes, online work can be covered by professional liability policies in Virginia, depending on the nature of the services provided. Professionals who offer services or advice online—such as consultants, freelance writers, designers, marketers, or IT specialists—can still face claims of negligence, errors, or omissions from clients. Professional liability insurance protects against these risks, whether the work is performed in-person or remotely. As long as the policy covers the specific type of service provided, online work is typically included in the protection. This coverage is crucial for professionals who interact with clients or provide deliverables over digital platforms, as disputes can still arise regarding the quality or accuracy of their work.

What factors affect the cost of professional liability insurance?

The cost of professional liability insurance in Virginia is influenced by several factors, including:

  1. Type of Profession: The nature of the services provided affects the cost, with high-risk professions (e.g., healthcare or legal services) typically facing higher premiums.
  2. Business Size: Larger businesses or those with more employees generally pay more for coverage due to increased risk exposure.
  3. Years of Experience: More experienced professionals may pay less, as they are often viewed as lower risk compared to those newer to their field.
  4. Claims History: A history of claims or lawsuits can result in higher premiums, as insurers may consider the professional a higher risk.
  5. Coverage Limits: Higher coverage limits increase the cost, as they offer more protection for potential claims.
  6. Annual Revenue: The amount of revenue a business generates can affect the premium, as higher earnings may correlate with larger projects and increased risk.
Professional Liability Insurance Virginia
Jenkins Insurance & Financial Services, Inc

How can Virginia professionals obtain professional liability insurance?

Reach out to the independent agents at Jenkins Insurance & Financial Services for a fast quote on professional liability insurance in Virginia. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the right coverage tailored to your specific profession, whether you’re an independent contractor, small business owner, or licensed professional. Protect yourself from costly legal claims and ensure your business remains secure with comprehensive coverage.

Jenkins Insurance & Financial Services, Inc

Get a Quote

Get a personalized quote! Share your details and a friendly agent will be in touch.