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Home-Based Business Insurance: Do You Need Extra Coverage?

Jun 25, 2025

Home Insurance

Home-Based Business Insurance: Do You Need Extra Coverage?

Running a business from the comfort of your home is a dream come true for many entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a freelance writer, an online retailer, or a consultant, home-based businesses offer flexibility, convenience, and lower overhead costs.

However, there’s a common misconception that your homeowner’s insurance policy will protect your business activities and assets. The reality? It often doesn’t. That’s where home based business insurance comes in.

At John E. Peakes Insurance Agency, we help Southern California business owners understand their risks and secure the right coverage. Continue reading to explore why standard homeowners insurance is rarely enough, what home-based business insurance covers, and how to decide if you need extra protection.

Why Homeowners Insurance Isn’t Enough

Your homeowners policy protects your personal property and liability, not your business operations. Most standard policies:

  • Limit coverage for business property (often to $2,500 or less)
  • Exclude liability for business-related injuries or damages
  • Don’t cover lost income if your business is interrupted

This means if your business equipment is stolen, a client is injured on your property, or a fire shuts down your operations, you could be left unprotected.

What Is Home Based Business Insurance?

Home based business insurance is a set of policies designed specifically for people who run businesses out of their homes. It fills the gaps left by homeowners insurance and can be tailored to the unique risks of your business.

Key Coverages Include:

  1. Business Property Insurance

    Covers business equipment, inventory, and supplies that may not be fully protected by your homeowners policy.

  2. Liability Insurance

    Protects you if someone is injured on your property during a business-related visit or if your products/services cause harm.

  3. Business Interruption Insurance

    Replaces lost income if you’re unable to operate due to a covered event like a fire or natural disaster.

  4. Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions) Insurance

    Essential for consultants, freelancers, and service providers—covers claims of negligence or mistakes in your work.

  5. Product Liability Insurance

    Important if you sell products—covers claims related to product defects or injuries.

Do You Need Home Based Business Insurance?

If you answer “yes” to any of the following, you likely need extra coverage:

  • Do you keep inventory, supplies, or expensive equipment at home for business use?
  • Do clients, customers, or delivery personnel visit your home for business reasons?
  • Do you store sensitive client data or handle financial transactions?
  • Would a fire, theft, or natural disaster put your business at risk of closure or lost income?
  • Are you required by clients or contracts to carry business insurance?

Even if your business is small, a single accident or lawsuit could cost far more than the price of insurance. Protecting your livelihood is simply smart business.

Types of Home Based Business Insurance Policies

Depending on your needs, you have several options:

  1. Homeowners Policy Endorsement

    A simple add-on to your existing homeowners policy that increases coverage for business property. Best for very small, low-risk businesses.

  2. In-Home Business Policy

    A more comprehensive policy that covers business property, liability, and sometimes lost income. Ideal for businesses with moderate risk or client interaction.

  3. Business Owners Policy (BOP)

    A package policy that combines property, liability, and business interruption insurance. Great for larger home-based businesses or those with employees.

How John E. Peakes Insurance Agency Can Help

Every business is unique, and so are its risks. At John E. Peakes Insurance Agency, we take the time to understand your specific needs and shop multiple carriers to find the best fit. Our experienced team will help you:

  • Assess your risks and coverage gaps
  • Compare policy options and prices
  • Customize a plan that fits your business and budget

Don’t let “what-ifs” keep you up at night. Let us do the shopping for you, so you can focus on growing your business with peace of mind.

Protect Your Home-Based Business with Us!

Home-based businesses are booming, but so are the risks they face. Don’t assume your homeowners insurance has you covered—most likely, it doesn’t. Investing in home based business insurance is a smart, affordable way to protect your assets, reputation, and income. Ready to learn more? Contact John E. Peakes Insurance Agency for a free quote and expert advice tailored to your business.

FAQs

  1. Will home based business insurance cover me if I travel to clients’ locations?

    Standard home based business insurance may not cover incidents that occur off your property. You may need additional commercial general liability or business auto insurance for off-site activities.

  2. Can I deduct the cost of home based business insurance on my taxes?

    In most cases, the premiums you pay for business insurance are tax-deductible as a business expense. Always consult your tax advisor for details.

  3. What if I have employees working from my home?

    If you have employees, you may be legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, even for a home-based business.

  4. Does home-based business insurance cover cyberattacks or data breaches?

    Not automatically. You may need to add a separate cyber liability policy to protect against data breaches, hacking, or loss of sensitive information.

Protect your business and your mental peace. Call John E. Peakes Insurance Agency today for your free home-based business insurance quote. You can also call us directly at 1-800-800-5199.

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