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As a business owner, you are responsible for the impact your operations have on the environment. Accidents can happen, and when they do, they can lead to serious consequences such as pollution, contamination, and damage to public health.
Think about it, the storage tank of your water treatment business can leak and spill harmful contaminants in rivers. If you’re in agriculture, then it’s possible for the pesticides in your farm to kill wildlife living near the premises of the farm.
This is where pollution and environmental liability insurance comes in. It protects your business from liabilities and helps cover the costs of cleanup and remediation in case of a mishap.
Pollution and environmental liability insurance is a type of coverage that protects businesses from the financial and legal consequences of pollution incidents. This insurance can cover a range of events, including contamination of soil, water, and air caused by business operations, accidents, or negligence.
There are two forms of pollution and environmental liability insurance: contractors pollution liability and pollution legal liability.
Contractors pollution liability insurance coverage provides coverage for third-party bodily injury, property damage, and cleanup costs caused by pollution events that occur during the contractor’s work. On the other hand, pollution legal liability covers claims arising from pollution events that occurred before the pollution insurance policy was taken out, as well as new events that occur during the policy period.
Businesses that should consider pollution and environmental liability insurance include those in manufacturing, construction, transportation, waste management, and energy industries.
Contractors pollution liability insurance is designed for businesses that work in industries that involve pollution risks. This insurance can cover contractors, subcontractors, and other professionals who perform work on a client’s property. It can help protect these businesses from the costs of legal defense, settlements, and judgments in case of a pollution incident.
This type of insurance is typically purchased by property owners or property managers to protect themselves from liabilities associated with pollution incidents that occur on their property. Pollution legal liability insurance, also called site pollution insurance, covers claims arising from pollution events that occur before or during the policy period.
Get all the best quotes from leading providers in a click of a button!
Pollution and environmental liability insurance can cover a range of costs associated with pollution incidents, including:
Cleanup and remediation costs
Legal defense costs
Settlements and judgments
Third-party bodily injury and property damage
Here are some examples of situations where pollution and environmental liability insurance can help protect your business:
A chemical spill from a manufacturing plant contaminates a nearby river, causing harm to wildlife and affecting the health of the local community
An oil tanker transporting fuel is involved in an accident that results in a spill, causing damage to the environment and neighboring properties
A construction company unknowingly digs up contaminated soil during excavation, leading to the release of hazardous substances into the air
It’s important to note that pollution and environmental liability policy may not cover all types of pollution incidents. Some examples of situations that may not be covered include:
Pollution that occurs outside the policy period
Pollution incidents that were known before the policy was taken out
Pollution incidents that are covered by other insurance policies
The amount of coverage available from pollution insurance carriers depends on the insurance company and the specific policy. Typically, policies provide coverage in the range of $1 million to $10 million.
It is recommended for businesses to obtain pollution and environmental liability insurance coverage to protect themselves from costly lawsuits and potential environmental damage. The amount of coverage needed will depend on the size and type of business, the potential risks involved, and the state and federal regulations. It is best to consult with an insurance agent or broker to determine the appropriate coverage needed.
Environmental pollution liability insurance is not required by federal law, but some states have their own regulations regarding environmental protection and liability. For example, California requires businesses that handle hazardous materials to obtain environmental pollution insurance or demonstrate financial responsibility to cover potential environmental damage. It is important to check with the state and local regulatory agencies to determine the requirements in the area where the business operates.
Yes, pollution and environmental liability insurance can often be added as an endorsement to a general liability policy. However, it is important to note that the coverage provided by a enviromental liability policy is usually limited and may not be sufficient to cover environmental damage or pollution-related claims. It is best to consult with an insurance agent or broker to determine if an endorsement or a separate policy is necessary.
The cost of pollution and environmental liability insurance will vary depending on the type of business, the level of risk, the amount of coverage needed, and location. On average, businesses can expect to pay anywhere from $103 per month or $1,236 per year for a $1 million pollution and environmental liability insurance coverage.
Your choice of insurance company also matters. Here’s a table showing a further idea of pollution insurance coverage cost based on the rates of the recommended companies:
| Cost per Month | Cost per Year | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEXT | $41.66 | $499.92 | Best overall; Fastest pollution liability insurance |
| CoverWallet | $50 | $600 | Comparing pollution liability insurance quotes online |
| The Hartford | $60 | $720 | Comprehensive risk assessment |
| Tivly | $62.50 | $750.00 | Comparing pollution liability insurance quotes over the phone |
| Thimble | $65 | $780 | Small to medium-sized businesses |
| Allianz | $166.66 | $1,999.92 | Small to large-sized businesses |
| Zurich | $208 | $2,496 | Mid-sized to large businesses that need comprehensive coverage |
| Hiscox | $208.33 | $2,499.96 | 24/7 claims support |
| AIG | $250 | $3,000 | Mid-sized businesses |
| Chubb | $416 | $4,992 | Small to large-sized businesses |
Get a further idea of the average pollution insurance cost by comparing quotes. Start by clicking the “Get Quotes” button on this page.
Get all the best quotes from leading providers in a click of a button!
When it comes to choosing the best pollution and environmental liability insurance company, it’s essential to consider various factors. Work with a no-good insurance company and you’ll experience claims delays, sudden premium hikes, or even-worse policy cancellations without notice. Here are some of the best pollution insurance providers. Read some of the reviews below to know their pros, cons, and average cost.
Easy and quick application process
Affordable pollution liability insurance cost coverage options
Excellent customer service
Limited coverage options for larger companies
No coverage for asbestos-related claims
NEXT Insurance provides pollution liability insurance for contractors and environmental impairment liability insurance for businesses that work with hazardous materials.
Best for: Best overall; Fastest pollution liability insurance
Average cost: $41.66 per month
Our rating: 10/10
Offers customized coverage options for businesses of all sizes and industries
Provides coverage for both sudden and gradual pollution incidents
Offers a broad range of risk management and loss control services
Provides pollution insurance online quotes and policy management tools
Premiums may be higher compared to other insurance providers
Some coverage options may not be available in certain states
The Hartford provides pollution liability insurance for a wide range of industries, including healthcare, real estate, and manufacturing. They offer customized coverage options and comprehensive risk assessments.
Best for: Comprehensive risk assessment
Average cost: $60 per month
Our ratings: 8/10
Offers online quotes and policy management tools
Provides customized coverage options for businesses of all sizes and industries
Has a team of experienced underwriters and risk engineers
Offers a wide range of coverage options and endorsements
Premiums may be higher compared to other insurance providers
Coverage limits may be lower for certain industries and sectors
CoverWallet provides pollution liability insurance for small businesses. They offer a user-friendly online platform for obtaining quotes and purchasing coverage.
Best for: Comparing pollution liability insurance quotes online
Average cost: $50 per month
Our ratings: 8/10
Offers flexible coverage options for small and mid-sized businesses
Provides coverage for both sudden and gradual pollution incidents
Offers risk management and loss control services
Provides pollution insurance online quotes and policy management tools
Coverage limits may be lower compared to other insurance providers
May not offer coverage in all states or for all industries
Hiscox provides pollution liability insurance for a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and real estate. They offer customizable coverage options and 24/7 claims support.
Best for: 24/7 claims support
Average cost: $208.33 per month
Our rating: 8/10
Easy-to-use online platform
Comprehensive policies
Competitive pricing
Limited coverage options compared to other companies
No coverage for asbestos-related claims
Tivly provides pollution liability insurance for small and mid-sized businesses. They offer a simple online application process and personalized customer service. This insurance company works with The Hartford, Tivly, Thimble, and other affiliates to grant pollution liability coverage to customers. Call a representative now to a get a quote.
Best for: Comparing pollution liability insurance quotes over the phone
Average cost: $62.50
Our rating: 8/10
Thimble offers on-demand pollution insurance in partnership with Tivly and other affiliate companies
The company has a user-friendly platform that allows you to get a quote and purchase a pollution insurance coverage in minutes
Provides flexible coverage options, so you can tailor your pollution liability policy to your specific needs
Has a good reputation for customer service and claims handling
Thimble may not be the best option for businesses that need long-term or more comprehensive coverage, as their policies are designed for short-term or on-demand needs
Thimble’s coverage limits may be lower than what some businesses require
May not offer coverage in all states or for all types of businesses
Thimble is a unique pollution insurance provider that offers on-demand commercial insurance services. This company works with other insurance companies that underwrite comprehensive pollution and environmental liability coverage. Thimble can bundle your pollution liability coverage with is general liability, commercial property, and other business insurance policies.
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses
Average cost: $65 per month
Our rating: 8/10
Offers a range of coverage options including for difficult-to-insure risks
Provides access to environmental risk management services
Strong financial rating
May not be the best fit for smaller businesses with lower coverage needs
Pollution liability insurance policy not available in all states
Zurich is a multinational insurance company based in Switzerland. The company has a strong presence in the environmental liability insurance market and offers a range of coverage options to businesses of all sizes.
Best for: Mid-sized to large businesses that need comprehensive coverage
Average cost: $208 per month
Our rating: 8/10
Offers comprehensive coverage options for a wide range of environmental risks
One of the pollution liability insurance carriers which has a team of experienced underwriters who can help businesses tailor their policies to their specific needs
Provides access to a network of environmental experts who can help with risk management and loss prevention
Policies can be expensive, particularly for smaller businesses
May not be the best fit for businesses with relatively low environmental risk
Chubb is a leading pollution insurance provider of environmental liability insurance. Their insurance policies are designed to protect businesses from environmental risks such as pollution, contamination, and hazardous waste. Chubb is best for larger businesses with more complex risks.
Best for: Small to large-sized businesses
Average cost: $416 per month
Our ratings: 8/10
Offers a variety of coverage options, including pollution legal liability, contractors pollution liability, and site pollution liability insurance
Provides access to environmental consultants and other experts who can help businesses manage their risks
Offers flexible coverage options that can be tailored to meet the needs of individual businesses
Policies can be expensive for smaller businesses
May not be the best fit for businesses with very high levels of environmental risk
AIG is another top provider of aig environmental liability insurance. Their policies are designed to help businesses manage environmental risks and comply with environmental regulations. AIG is best for mid-sized businesses with a moderate level of environmental risk.
Best for: Mid-sized businesses
Average cost: $250 per month
Our rating: 8/10
Offers a variety of coverage options, including pollution legal liability and contractors pollution liability
Provides access to environmental consultants who can help businesses manage their risks
Offers flexible coverage options that can be tailored to meet the needs of individual businesses
Policies can be expensive for smaller businesses
May not be the best fit for businesses with very high levels of environmental risk
Allianz is a global insurance company that offers a wide range of pollution insurance products, including environmental liability insurance. Their policies are designed to help businesses manage environmental risks and comply with environmental regulations. Allianz environmental insurance is best for small and mid-sized businesses with a moderate level of environmental risk.
Best for: Small to large-sized businesses
Average cost: $166.66 per month
Our rating: 8/10
10 / 10
For me this company has proven to be the best to do business with and worth my hard earned money. Contractors this is your company look no further.
7.7 / 10
Decent experience with Hiscox business insurance
10 / 10
Good company. Good and knowledgable customer service. If they don't know something they will pass you on to a more experienced rep that is more knowledgable. So far so good.
10 / 10
Best insurance ever
10 / 10
Coolest concept, I wish this was applied to other insurance products too.
9.4 / 10
Fastest ever online insurance quote and purchase! Also, great rates and professional customer reps that helps with whatever you need, if you need. Nice company!
2.8 / 10
Embroker sells a product that it doesn't honor. We purchased a combination D&O and EPLI policy. However, when it came to renewal, it told us that we only had D&O coverage even through our ACCORD certificate clearly mentions we have both. Basically they refused to honor the EPLI coverage and will leave you hanging with the bag. At time of renewal, they more than doubled our quote to get similar coverage. Basically BAIT & SWITCH. Unacceptable tactics. Easy to buy and pay but you may not be... Read More
2.8 / 10
Great platform. Terrible policy. There is no teeth behind it. No coverage. It's a fake policy that they sell. Sold us an EPLI policy that later we came to find out had no EPLI coverage. Amazing that they can get away with outright fraud. Check the positive reviews. They are all 'Anonymous' posted by Emroker staff. Stay away and find a real policy that will actually provide you coverage. We've been bitten by them and hope to find restitution via a lawsuit.
Paul Burns Insuranker
Policy Type: Business Insurance
Company name: Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
0 / 10
It has been 70 days since I made a claim on the roof of my building. No one from the company will return calls. We are in hurricane season and located in Louisiana. My building is tarped to secure it.
Felicia Broadus Insuranker
Policy Type: Business Insurance
Company name: Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
0 / 10
They are the worst, my truck was hit in January 23 and the claim adjuster has not been out to this very day! They have every excuse in the book as to why. They have not been to the collision shop. PLEASE AVOID THESE SCAM ARTIST!
Felicia Broadus Insuranker
Policy Type: Business Insurance
Company name: Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
0 / 10
Avoid these SCAM ARTISTS! They don’t pay claims!!! Save yourself the trouble and money!
Kasey Arey Insuranker
Policy Type: Business Insurance
Company name: Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
0 / 10
This company gives you a price that was in place for a year and when you have to use it there is fine print were they can go back and charge you more. Would not recommend them to any one. Crooks
John Murphy Insuranker
Policy Type: Business Insurance
Company name: Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
0 / 10
Worst insurance comapny I have ever dealt with. A commercial vehicle represented by GUARD t boned my wife and daughters family vehicle in the middle of the day. Driver was cited and insurance claim insued. Fast forward 4 months and refusal of full amount of claim is still happening. Driver was found guilty, repairs started on my vehicle and when it comes to the final bill and diminished value we cannot get any help. I am out a family car, have an injured and traumatized wife and children,... Read More
Harshadray Patel Insuranker
Policy Type: Business Insurance
Company name: Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
0 / 10
Extremely bad service, when you call , will make you wait on the phone for ever (over an Hour) and still no one to answer , so you end up hanging up. To cancel the policy, bounce you from one department to the other. They are supposed to refund from the date other insurance started and after sending the proof of other insurance policy, still they did not refund based on that actual date instead they use the date i managed to get hold of them. They charged me $7000.00 for a year's insurance on... Read More
Aaron Wensel Insuranker
Policy Type: Business Insurance
Company name: Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
0 / 10
Guard Insurance is terrible. They were so bad I cancelled them because them couldn't figure out why I would never get a paper copy of the bill . Verified my address with them and still intermittent billing. I cancelled them in March through my local broker. Today 6/27 I get a letter in the mail from a collections company saying I owe 87.97. This was the first myself or my broker heard of owing this money. Here is some advice for this failure of a company send me a god damn bill and I will pay.... Read More
Michael Swink Insuranker
Policy Type: Business Insurance
Company name: Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
0 / 10
My employer had to have workers compensation by law. He obtained a policy through this Berkshire Hathaway GUARD and they failed me. I fell from a ladder and fractured my spine in 7 different places, my clavicle in 4 places, and the base of my skull. Going to my Dr visits I was prescribed medication for pain and the insurance company placed a pre-authorization hold on me picking up the medication from Walgreens. The hold lasted 5 days! My weekly benefits have never been on time, right now... Read More
10 / 10
Liberty Mutual is one of the more simple companies to deal with. I had to file a claim for my business owner policy after I caught one of my employees stealing a large amount of products from my business. Liberty mutual paid the claim fast and with no efforts. I wish the legal process was as easy…
10 / 10
For me this company has proven to be the best to do business with and worth my hard earned money. Contractors this is your company look no further.
7.7 / 10
Decent experience with Hiscox business insurance
9.4 / 10
Very pleased with Hiscox - their small business insurance rates are very good and they specialize in small business which gives me a peace of mind as a small business owner. So far so good!
10 / 10
Their customer service is absolutely fantastic. Very patient, knowledgable and provided excellent explanation of the purchased policy. I would highly recommend this insurance company to anyone that's looking to protect their business from unexpected expense. Thank you Hiscox for doing a great job for my business!
0.6 / 10
STAY AWAY! I wouldn't recommend hiscox small business liability insurance to anyone. Better not waste both your money and your time. Hiscox customer service is extremely unpleasant, not organized and not professional. It is the worst company we have dealt with in almost 25 years in business!
10 / 10
Good company. Good and knowledgable customer service. If they don't know something they will pass you on to a more experienced rep that is more knowledgable. So far so good.
10 / 10
Extremely fast and simple. Wasted a lot of time and money until I found these guys! I feel like my business is in good hands now.
10 / 10
Hiscox's the best! My business is insured with them for over 12 years and am not planning to switch!
10 / 10
Excellent experience with Hiscox BOP for my coffee shop. They provided all it needed.
10 / 10
My HI barbershop is well covered with their great BOP product for 5 years already! not planning to switch!
10 / 10
Best insurance ever
10 / 10
Coolest concept, I wish this was applied to other insurance products too.
10 / 10
Great experience
6 / 10
Didn't relate to the concept much, but it makes sense if you need insurance to go
0 / 10
It doesn't really feel sustainable to me and doesn't offer business interruption, product liability and commercial property insurance. They have no local agents and despite their technology first approach you cannot file claims online. Additionally, product manufacturers are not covered by Thimble and they don't provide enterprise solutions.
10 / 10
As a contractor that works 3 times a week for a few hours, Thimble gets really handy for me and saves me money. I have no use for these massive business insurance coverages offered by traditional insurance companies.
10 / 10
Excellent concept which is useful to many small businesses!
10 / 10
Been waiting for this type of solution for a long time!
10 / 10
Love their business insurance solutions for freelancers! Great app!
Not all those who wander are lost.
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