PreferredVerified Q1 2026
Source: The Hartford — Restaurant Insurance
The Hartford: Restaurants Insurance Appetite
The Hartford is one of the strongest small commercial markets for restaurants. Their Spectrum BOP includes built-in food spoilage and equipment breakdown that competitors charge extra for. Pair with their workers' comp for a package discount up to 10%. Average BOP cost for fast food restaurants is about $316/month — competitive with Progressive.
Available Lines
| Line of Business |
|---|
| Business Owners Policy (BOP) |
| General Liability |
| Commercial Property |
| Workers' Compensation |
| Commercial Auto |
| Umbrella/Excess |
| Employment Practices Liability |
Premium Range
$3,000-$20,000
Typical annual premium
Target States
48 states + DC (excludes AK, HI)
Key Features
- Spectrum BOP bundles GL, property, and business income with built-in equipment breakdown and food spoilage coverage
- Workers' comp program with pay-as-you-go billing through payroll provider partnerships — ideal for restaurants with seasonal staffing
- EPLI coverage protects against third-party claims from customers and vendors, not just employees
- Fast food and full-service restaurants are both eligible — The Hartford writes hundreds of restaurant class codes
- AARP-endorsed small business program gives credibility with restaurant owner-operators
Limitations
- Bars and taverns with dominant liquor exposure (over 50% of revenue from alcohol) are typically declined
- Nightclubs and adult entertainment venues are excluded from the standard BOP program
- No standalone liquor liability — liquor coverage is an endorsement requiring separate underwriting approval
Compare Other Carriers for Restaurants
Progressive CommercialPreferred
$2,500-$12,000
TravelersLimited
$4,000-$18,000
CNAStandard
$3,000-$20,000
HiscoxLimited
$500-$3,000
ERGO NEXT InsurancePreferred
$1,200-$7,000
EMPLOYERS HoldingsPreferred
$1,200-$8,000
AcuityStandard
$3,000-$15,000
Erie InsurancePreferred
$3,000-$15,000
biBERKPreferred
$1,500-$10,000
AmTrust Financial ServicesPreferred
$2,000-$15,000
BTISStandard
$2,000-$12,000
Pie InsurancePreferred
$1,000-$8,000