These are the questions owners ask us most often. The answers are general information, not advice for your specific business; for that, talk to one of our hospitality brokers at (416) 346-6886. For a fuller picture of how we quote and place coverage, see our step-by-step process.
Coverage
What does a restaurant insurance package usually include?
Most food businesses buy a package that combines general liability, property and contents, and business interruption. Many add equipment breakdown, spoilage, crime and, if they serve alcohol, liquor liability. Our overview of the coverages in a typical package explains each one.
What is the difference between general liability and liquor liability?
General liability responds to claims that your business injured someone or damaged their property, such as a guest slipping on a wet floor. Liquor liability responds when someone claims your business contributed to an injury by serving alcohol to a guest, often a guest who later caused an accident. Read how liquor liability for licensed businesses works.
Does property insurance cover a broken walk-in cooler?
Usually not when the cooler simply fails. Standard property cover responds to events like fire or water damage, not mechanical or electrical breakdown. That gap is filled by cover for failed coolers, ovens and compressors, often paired with spoilage cover for the food you lose.
What happens to my income if I have to close after a fire?
Business interruption can replace lost profit and pay ongoing costs like rent and payroll while you repair after a covered loss, subject to a waiting period and the limit you choose. See how lost income is replaced after a closure.
Is workers’ compensation part of my policy?
No. In Ontario, workers’ compensation is run by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). It is separate from the commercial policy we place for you, and most businesses with employees must register.
Cost
How much does restaurant insurance cost?
It varies widely with sales, liquor sales, cooking, location, building and claims history. Our guide to estimated premiums shows rough ranges by business type and explains what moves the price.
Why do bars pay more than cafés?
Alcohol and late hours. Liquor liability claims can be large, and late-night venues see more incidents. A café with no liquor licence that closes in the afternoon presents far less risk.
How can I lower my premium?
Keep fire suppression and hood cleaning current, document Smart Serve training, manage slip hazards, choose a deductible you can afford and let us shop your coverage at renewal.
Working with us
Why use a broker that specializes in restaurants?
Many insurers avoid restaurants, bars and hotels, and a generalist broker may have only one or two places to send them. We focus on food and hospitality, so we know which insurers want which risks, what underwriters will ask about your kitchen and liquor service, and where the usual gaps are, such as equipment breakdown, spoilage and income limits that do not match your busy season.
Which insurers do you work with?
We work with a range of insurers, including specialty and hospitality-focused markets that actively want food and hospitality business. The right fit depends on your operation, so we choose which ones to approach after we understand how you run, then shop one application across them.
Are you licensed in Ontario?
Yes. Our brokers are licensed in Ontario, and we serve Ontario businesses only.
How long until someone contacts me?
One of our brokers will be in touch within one business day, by phone or email. For anything urgent, call (416) 346-6886.
What information should I have ready?
Your sales, liquor sales share, staff count, cooking equipment, fire suppression details, building information, claims history and any lease requirements. Our page on how we work has the full list.
Is there any cost or obligation?
No. The quote is free, and you decide whether to buy anything. You can request a quote whenever you are ready.
Can you help with certificates and claims after I buy?
Yes. We issue certificates of insurance for landlords, municipalities and event venues, update your policy when your business changes, review it at renewal and help you through a claim.
Specific businesses
Do food trucks need a different kind of policy?
Yes. A food truck needs commercial auto for the vehicle as well as liability and equipment cover for the kitchen. Event organizers commonly ask for proof of liability. See our page on coverage for food trucks and mobile kitchens.
I run a brewery with a taproom. What should I ask about?
Ask about liquor liability for the taproom, equipment breakdown for brewing equipment and business interruption if production stops. Our page on coverage for craft breweries goes into detail.
Can a bed and breakfast use a home insurance policy?
Usually not on its own. Home policies commonly exclude or limit business activity, including paying guests. We can tell you whether you need a commercial policy. Read more about coverage for B&B owners.
Do you insure seasonal businesses in cottage country?
Yes. We work with seasonal restaurants, inns and resorts across Ontario and set business interruption around your peak season income. See where we work in Ontario.