Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance and Professional Liability insurance (also known as Errors and Omissions insurance or E&O insurance) are two distinct types of business insurance that provide coverage for different types of risks. Here's a comparison between the two:
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Commercial General Liability (CGL):
CGL insurance provides coverage for claims related to bodily injury, property damage, and personal/advertising injury that your business may cause to third parties. It typically covers incidents that occur on your business premises or as a result of your business operations.

Professional Liability (PL) or Errors and Omissions (E&O):
Professional Liability insurance is designed to protect professionals and businesses against claims arising from mistakes, negligence, or errors in the professional services they provide. This includes claims related to professional advice, services, or recommendations that result in financial losses for clients.

Types of Businesses Covered:
CGL: It is more commonly associated with businesses that have a physical presence or engage in activities that may pose a risk to third parties, such as slip-and-fall accidents at a store or property damage caused by construction work.

PL or E&O: This type of insurance is typically tailored to businesses and professionals who provide specialized services or advice, such as lawyers, doctors, consultants, architects, IT professionals, and financial advisors.

Covered Claims:
CGL: Covers claims related to bodily injury, property damage, and personal/advertising injury caused by your business operations or premises. It can also include product liability coverage.

PL or E&O: Covers claims arising from errors, omissions, or mistakes in the professional services you provide. This can include claims of professional negligence, misrepresentation, or failure to deliver promised results.

Legal Costs:
CGL: Covers legal defense costs if you are sued for bodily injury, property damage, or personal injury.

PL or E&O: Covers legal defense costs as well as any settlements or judgments resulting from professional liability claims. It often includes coverage for the cost of hiring experts to defend your case.

Industry Specific:
CGL: Applicable to a wide range of businesses across various industries.
PL or E&O: More specialized and tailored to specific professions and industries where professional advice or services are provided.

Claims Frequency:
CGL: Claims tend to be more frequent in industries where physical accidents or property damage are common, such as construction or retail.
PL or E&O: Claims are more common in professions where advice or services can lead to financial losses or disputes, such as law, finance, healthcare, or consulting.

Commercial General Liability insurance and Professional Liability insurance serve different purposes and cater to different types of businesses. CGL primarily covers bodily injury and property damage claims resulting from general business operations, while PL or E&O insurance is designed to protect against claims arising from professional errors or negligence in specialized services or advice. Many businesses may benefit from having both types of insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Running a business in Texas comes with a lot of responsibilities, and one of the most important is making sure you have the right insurance in place. But let’s face it: commercial insurance can be expensive, especially when premiums keep rising year after year.
At Strive Insurance, we help business owners across Texas find smarter ways to protect their operations without overpaying. If you're looking to tighten up your insurance spending while keeping your coverage strong, here are five proven strategies to consider:

1. Bundle Your Policies
One of the easiest ways to save money is by bundling your commercial insurance policies under one carrier. A Business Owner’s Policy (BOP), for example, combines general liability and property insurance into one convenient—and often discounted—package.
Pro tip:
Talk to your agent about whether your business qualifies for a BOP or other bundle options. This can also make renewals and claims much simpler to manage.

2. Raise Your Deductibles Strategically
A higher deductible means you’re agreeing to pay more out of pocket before your coverage kicks in. But in return, you’ll usually see a lower premium.
Pro tip:
Review your claim history and financial cushion. If you rarely file claims and can comfortably handle a larger deductible, this is a smart way to reduce costs.

3. Improve Risk Management Practices
Insurance companies reward businesses that manage their risks well. Installing security systems, conducting regular safety training, and maintaining good housekeeping practices can lead to lower premiums—especially in industries like construction, manufacturing, and hospitality.
Pro tip:
Ask your agent if your insurer offers credits for things like fire suppression systems, safety audits, or having a written risk management plan.

4. Review and Update Your Coverage Annually
Many businesses are paying for coverage they don’t actually need—or missing out on discounts because they haven’t updated their policy to reflect changes.
Pro tip:
Have an annual insurance review. If your payroll, inventory, or equipment values have changed, your coverage should reflect that. You might even be eligible for new discounts based on your industry or claims-free status.

5. Work with an Independent Insurance Agent
Not all insurance agents are created equal. Independent agents—like us at Strive Insurance—aren’t tied to one company. That means we can shop your coverage across multiple carriers to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
Pro tip:
Make sure your agent understands your specific industry. From biotech to real estate to retail, industry-specific knowledge can uncover savings others might miss.

Saving money on your commercial insurance doesn’t mean taking shortcuts—it means making smart, informed decisions. At Strive Insurance, we’re here to help you find the right balance between protection and price.
Ready for a free policy review? Let’s talk. We’ll go over your current coverage, find opportunities to save, and make sure your business stays secure for the road ahead.
 

Managing properties in Texas comes with its share of challenges—from fluctuating weather conditions to tenant disputes and building maintenance. As a property manager, your job involves juggling these risks while keeping owners, tenants, and vendors happy. But one area where many property managers unintentionally fall short is insurance. Overlooking key details can leave your business exposed to significant financial and legal consequences.
At Strive Insurance, we work closely with Texas property managers to help them identify and avoid common insurance pitfalls. Here are five major ones to watch out for:


1. Underinsuring the Property
One of the most common mistakes is underestimating the cost to rebuild after a loss. With construction costs rising across Texas, your policy limits from a few years ago may no longer be adequate. If a fire or storm destroys part of the property, you could be stuck covering the difference between the insured value and the actual rebuild cost.
Solution: Schedule regular insurance reviews with your agent to update property valuations and ensure your policy keeps up with inflation and material costs.


2. Neglecting Liability Risks
Slip-and-falls, tenant injuries, or even crimes on the property can lead to lawsuits. Liability claims are not only expensive—they can also damage your reputation.
Solution: Make sure you have robust General Liability coverage and consider adding Umbrella Liability Insurance for additional protection. Also, verify that contractors working on your property carry their own liability insurance and workers' comp.


3. Gaps in Coverage for Tenant-Caused Damage
Some policies won’t cover damage caused by tenants, leaving you responsible for costly repairs. Whether it’s an unauthorized pet, a kitchen fire, or water damage, these exclusions can catch you off guard.
Solution: Ask your insurance agent to review your policy exclusions and recommend endorsements that fill in these gaps. Encouraging or requiring tenant renters’ insurance is also a smart move.


4. Skipping Cyber Insurance
Many property managers rely on digital systems for rent collection, maintenance requests, and tenant communication. If your systems are hacked or data is compromised, your liability and recovery costs could be massive.
Solution: Invest in a Cyber Liability Insurance policy. It’s affordable and helps cover recovery costs, legal fees, and notification requirements after a data breach.


5. Assuming the HOA’s Insurance Has You Covered
If you manage condos or townhomes, don’t rely on the homeowners’ association’s policy to protect your interests. HOA policies often only cover common areas, leaving you exposed.

Solution: Clarify responsibilities between your policy and the HOA’s master policy. Your agent can help make sure you’re not caught in a coverage gap.


Final Thoughts
Texas property managers face a complex insurance landscape, but the right guidance can make all the difference. At Strive Insurance, we specialize in helping property managers identify risks, close coverage gaps, and gain peace of mind.
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If you're unsure whether your current insurance setup is protecting you fully, let’s schedule a quick consultation. We’ll help you avoid the pitfalls—and build a stronger foundation for your business.
 

In today's litigious society, where multimillion-dollar lawsuits can arise from simple accidents or unforeseen events, businesses must ensure they have adequate protection beyond standard liability policies. This is where commercial umbrella insurance steps in, offering an additional layer of security that can be crucial for a business’s survival. Here’s why every business should consider adding commercial umbrella insurance to their risk management strategy:
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1. Extended Coverage Limits

What It Offers: Commercial umbrella insurance provides additional coverage when the limits of your underlying liability policies (like general liability, auto liability, and employers' liability) are exhausted. For example, if a lawsuit costs $2 million to settle and your general liability covers only $1.5 million, your umbrella policy can cover the additional $500,000, thus protecting your business assets from being used to cover the shortfall.

Why It’s Important: Businesses often face risks that can result in claims exceeding standard policy limits. Umbrella insurance acts as a safety net, ensuring that a business isn't crippled financially by a single incident. This is especially important in high-risk industries or those prone to large liability claims.

2. Broader Coverage

What It Offers: Besides providing higher limits, commercial umbrella insurance sometimes covers claims that are not included in primary liability policies. This can include certain legal fees, contractual liabilities, and liabilities over business practices that may not be typically covered under standard policies.

Why It’s Important: The broad nature of coverage under umbrella insurance means that businesses can be protected against unforeseen gaps in their primary insurance policies. This comprehensive coverage is vital for peace of mind and continuous business operations, particularly in dynamic environments where unexpected legal challenges can arise.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

What It Offers: Commercial umbrella insurance is generally cost-effective, especially compared to the increase in limits it provides. Premiums are relatively low because the umbrella policy only kicks in after the primary insurance limits are reached, which makes it a less frequently used policy.

Why It’s Important: For a relatively small additional cost, businesses can significantly increase their liability coverage. This makes commercial umbrella insurance an efficient way to boost total coverage without proportionately increasing insurance costs, providing substantial financial protection relative to the investment.

4. Reputation Protection

What It Offers: By ensuring that claims can be settled fully and promptly, umbrella insurance helps in protecting a business’s reputation. Handling claims efficiently prevents negative publicity and maintains customer trust.

Why It’s Important: A business’s reputation is one of its most valuable assets. In the event of a large claim, having the financial backing to resolve issues swiftly and fully can help avert potential reputation damage, which can be costly and difficult to recover from.

5. Peace of Mind

What It Offers: With umbrella insurance, business owners can have peace of mind knowing they are protected against catastrophic losses that could potentially bankrupt their operations.

Why It’s Important: Running a business involves managing daily risks. With the protection of an umbrella policy, business owners can focus more on growth and less on the potential for devastating financial implications from lawsuits.

Commercial umbrella insurance is an essential component of a comprehensive business insurance strategy. It not only extends the limits of existing liability coverages but also ensures broader protection, making it an indispensable safeguard for businesses aiming to secure their future against the uncertainties of high-cost liabilities.
 

In the vast and dynamic landscape of the Texas business environment, safeguarding your enterprise against unforeseen risks is paramount. Whether you're a small business owner or managing a larger corporation, the importance of having a knowledgeable insurance agent by your side cannot be overstated. In this blog post, we'll delve into the crucial reasons why partnering with an insurance agent is an essential aspect of securing and fortifying your business in the Lone Star State.
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Tailored Coverage Solutions:
The unique nature of each Texas business demands a customized insurance approach. A professional insurance agent takes the time to understand the specific risks associated with your industry, location, and operations. With this insight, they can tailor coverage solutions that address your business's distinct needs, ensuring comprehensive protection against potential threats.

Expertise in Navigating Complex Policies:
Insurance policies can be intricate and filled with industry-specific jargon. An insurance agent serves as your guide through this complexity, breaking down policy details, explaining coverage options, and helping you make informed decisions. Their expertise ensures that you choose policies that align with your business objectives while providing the necessary protection.

Access to a Diverse Range of Policies:
Insurance needs vary across industries, and having access to a diverse range of policies is crucial. Insurance agents often work with multiple carriers, giving you access to a broad spectrum of coverage options. This flexibility allows your agent to source the most competitive and comprehensive policies tailored to your business's unique requirements.

Risk Management and Loss Prevention:
Beyond merely providing insurance coverage, an insurance agent plays a proactive role in risk management and loss prevention. By conducting thorough risk assessments, they can identify potential vulnerabilities within your business and recommend strategies to mitigate those risks. This proactive approach can result in fewer claims, lower premiums, and a more resilient business in the face of challenges.

Claims Advocacy and Assistance:
When the unexpected occurs, navigating the claims process can be a daunting task. An insurance agent acts as your advocate, guiding you through the claims process, ensuring that you receive fair and timely compensation. Their expertise in claims management can alleviate the stress of dealing with insurers, allowing you to focus on the swift recovery and continuity of your business operations.
 
In the ever-evolving and competitive landscape of Texas business, the role of an insurance agent is indispensable. From tailored coverage solutions and expert policy navigation to risk management and claims advocacy, their contributions go beyond providing a safety net – they actively fortify your business against potential challenges. By partnering with a trusted insurance agent, you empower your business to thrive and endure in the face of uncertainty, confident that you have a dedicated professional safeguarding your success.

Commercial property insurance is a vital safeguard for businesses of all sizes. Whether you own a small retail store or a large industrial complex, protecting your assets from unforeseen events is essential. Commercial property insurance provides coverage for damages or losses to your business property, including buildings, inventory, equipment, and more. To ensure you have the right coverage, here are five keys to understanding and obtaining commercial property insurance:
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Assess Your Property and Its Value
Before you can secure the right insurance policy, you need to thoroughly assess your property and its value. This step involves taking an inventory of your business assets, such as buildings, machinery, office equipment, inventory, and even outdoor signs. Make a detailed list of everything you want to insure, including their estimated value. Having a clear understanding of the value of your property will help you determine the appropriate coverage limits. Consider working with a professional appraiser or your insurance provider to get an accurate assessment.

Understand Coverage Types
Commercial property insurance typically comes in two primary forms: named peril and open peril (also known as all-risk) coverage. Named peril policies provide coverage for specific perils, like fire, theft, or vandalism, which are explicitly mentioned in the policy. Open peril policies, on the other hand, cover a broader range of risks, except for those explicitly excluded. Most businesses opt for open peril policies as they provide broader protection, but they may come at a higher premium. Understanding the coverage type is crucial, as it determines what events are covered and which are not.

Consider Additional Coverages
In addition to basic property coverage, there are several additional coverages you should consider to enhance your protection. These may include:

Business interruption insurance: This coverage can help replace lost income and cover expenses when your business operations are interrupted due to a covered peril.
Equipment breakdown insurance: This covers the cost of repairing or replacing equipment and machinery that breakdown due to a sudden and accidental mechanical or electrical failure.
Flood insurance: Standard property insurance typically doesn't cover damage caused by floods, so if your business is located in a flood-prone area, it's essential to purchase separate flood insurance.

Earthquake insurance: Similar to flood insurance, this coverage is necessary if you're in an earthquake-prone region.
Review your specific business needs and location to determine which additional coverages are necessary for your property insurance policy.

Policy Deductibles and Premiums
Commercial property insurance policies often come with deductibles and premiums. The deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Higher deductibles can lower your premium costs, but it's essential to balance this with your ability to cover the deductible in case of a loss. Premiums are the ongoing payments you make for your insurance coverage. When determining your premium, insurance companies consider various factors, including the type of property, location, security measures, and the coverage limits. Be sure to get quotes from multiple insurers to find the best balance of coverage and cost for your specific needs.

Review and Update Your Policy Regularly
Once you have commercial property insurance in place, don't forget to regularly review and update your policy. As your business grows and changes, so do your insurance needs. Any significant renovations, property acquisitions, or changes in your business operations should be promptly reported to your insurance provider. Failing to keep your policy up to date can result in coverage gaps or insufficient protection. It's also wise to annually review your policy to ensure it still meets your business requirements and is priced competitively.

Commercial property insurance is a vital component of your business risk management strategy. Understanding the keys to obtaining the right coverage—assessing your property and its value, understanding coverage types, considering additional coverages, managing deductibles and premiums, and reviewing and updating your policy—will help ensure your business is adequately protected in the event of unexpected disasters or accidents. Work closely with your insurance provider to customize a policy that meets your specific needs, and don't hesitate to seek professional guidance when necessary. Protecting your commercial property is an investment that can save your business from financial hardship in the long run.

​Business risks can vary depending on the industry, location, and specific circumstances of a company. However, there are some common business risks that many organizations face. We have always believed in education and putting you first. Some of these risks can be managed by insurance and other through risk management strategies, give us a call today.

1. Economic Uncertainty: Fluctuations in the economy, including recessions, inflation, and currency exchange rate changes, can significantly impact businesses.
2. Market Competition: Intense competition can erode market share, pricing power, and profitability. New entrants and disruptive technologies can pose additional threats.
3. Regulatory and Compliance Changes: Evolving regulations, industry standards, and compliance requirements can create legal and operational challenges for businesses.
4. Cybersecurity Threats: Data breaches, cyberattacks, and other cybersecurity threats can lead to data loss, reputation damage, and financial losses.
5. Supply Chain Disruptions: Disruptions in the supply chain, such as natural disasters, political instability, or logistical problems, can interrupt production and impact revenue.
6. Talent Management: Attracting and retaining skilled employees is crucial, and labor shortages or turnover can disrupt operations.
7. Reputation and Brand Damage: Negative publicity, social media backlash, or ethical issues can harm a company's reputation and brand value.
8. Financial Risk: This includes factors like liquidity problems, credit risk, and high debt levels, which can lead to financial instability.
9. Technology Disruption: Rapid technological advancements and the failure to adapt can make businesses obsolete.
10. Environmental and Sustainability Issues: Climate change, environmental regulations, and consumer demand for sustainable practices can affect a company's operations and reputation.

It's essential for businesses to regularly assess and manage these risks to minimize their potential impact and enhance their resilience in a dynamic business environment. Additionally, the specific risks a company faces can vary widely based on its industry, size, and geographic location, so a thorough risk assessment tailored to the organization's circumstances is crucial.

If you're a business owner, you're probably well aware of the importance of insurance to protect your assets, employees, and customers. However, choosing the right insurance policies and finding the best deals can be a time-consuming and complex process. That's where partnering with an insurance broker can be advantageous. In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of working with an insurance agent or broker for your business. We offer special coverage options for products liability and coverage for the life sciences industry.

1. Expertise and Experience
Insurance agents and brokers are trained professionals with extensive knowledge and experience in the insurance industry. They are well-versed in the various types of insurance policies and can provide expert advice on the coverage that best suits your business needs. With their expertise, they can help you make informed decisions and ensure that you are adequately covered.

2. Time-Saving
Shopping for insurance can be a time-consuming process, especially if you're not familiar with the industry. By working with an insurance broker, you can save time and focus on running your business. Insurance brokers will do the research and shopping around for you, presenting you with options that meet your needs and budget.

3. Customized Insurance Solutions
Every business is unique, and so are its insurance needs. An insurance broker will work with you to understand your specific requirements and tailor insurance policies to meet those needs. They will also provide you with options that you may not have considered before, ensuring that you have the best possible coverage.

4. Cost Savings
Insurance brokers have relationships with various insurance providers and can negotiate better deals on your behalf. By leveraging their industry knowledge and expertise, brokers can help you find the most cost-effective insurance policies that provide the coverage you need.

5. Claims Assistance
In the event of a claim, an insurance broker will be your advocate and guide you through the process. They will work with the insurance provider to ensure that the claim is handled efficiently and effectively. This support can be invaluable, especially during stressful times.

6. Ongoing Support
Your insurance needs may change over time, and an insurance broker will be there to help you adapt. They will review your policies periodically and make recommendations to ensure that you are always adequately covered. They can also provide you with advice on risk management and loss prevention, helping you avoid potential claims in the future.

Partnering with an insurance broker can provide your business with numerous benefits, including expertise and experience, time-saving, customized insurance solutions, cost savings, claims assistance, and ongoing support. By working with an insurance broker, you can ensure that your business is adequately protected, allowing you to focus on growing and running your business with confidence.

Strive Insurance Group, Inc. (formerly Gordon Lund Insurance Agency, Inc) is an independent insurance agency representing many insurance companies.  This means that we quote with many different insurance companies to obtain the best rate and coverage for your insurance.  We do this at no additional fee or service charge to you.  Our insurance agency's reputation for representing the best insurance companies, providing excellent customer service and competitive pricing to our clients has been earned and proven for over 30 years.  We take great pride in finding you the best coverage and backing it up with prompt personal service.  

Construction Defect is a phrase contractors do not like to hear.
Construction defect claims can be defined as damages resulting form faulty work or workmanship. Court decisions and state regulations make managing the risk of construction defects more than just prevention.
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Construction Defect Insurance
The CGL policy underwent a major revision in 1986. The changes sought to clarify and to simplify the "property damage" exclusions. The changes were not, however, intended to change the exclusions meaning or effect.  Not every policy is created equal.  Make sure your contractors insurance does not have defect exclusions.

“Now, an ‘occurrence’ is typically defined under a CGL as “an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to substantially the same general harmful conditions.” In other words, a threshold coverage question is whether the Homeowners’ lawsuit alleges property damage caused by an occurrence.” Property
Casualty360.com

Legal battles will continue over whether construction defect claims are covered by commercial general liability policies. This will cause increases in the cost of contractors insurance.

Construction Defect Risk Management

• Call us for a coverage review.
• Limit sub-contractors, if possible.
• Require sub-contractors to have the same coverage as you do.
• Document all conversations and changes.
• Repair any problems when you see them.

Construction companies should make sure they protect themselves by identifying the applicable states laws, reviewing all the risks, identifying any insurance gaps under state laws, and then taking steps to resolve any coverage issues.

Business Insurance Trends
The business insurance world is changing at a fast pace. Technology is continually evolving and businesses must change or die. New technology also brings change in claims and litigation. Often lawsuits filed today are indicators of business liability claims tomorrow.

Business Insurance
Business or commercial insurance coverage is available for almost every conceivable risk your business might face. The cost and amount of coverage of policies vary among insurers.  Also the type of business you are in also impacts cost and coverage.  You should discuss your specific business risks and the types of insurance available for your business with us.

Future Business Insurance Risks

Intellectual Property
This is one of the fastest growing areas of litigation. The average defense cost in 2013 was over $500,000. With more information being disrupted over the internet, claims are sure to increase. Intellectual property insurance coverage protects companies for copyright, trademark or patent infringement, and claims arising out of the company's operation.

Products Liability Insurance
Products liability insurance covers a wide range of potential claims related to the sale and distribution of products. These include any injuries or losses due to design defects, manufacturing defects, inadequate instructions or warnings, improper packaging or labeling, breach of warranty, and other similar issues. In addition to covering the associated legal costs, it can also provide coverage for damages awarded by a court in such cases. This type of insurance is critical for businesses that produce, distribute, or sell products as it helps protect them from financial losses if they are held liable for an injury caused by their product.
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Healthcare Professional Liability
As we move well into healthcare reform, we are seeing increased litigation focused on medical providers of all kinds. In 2012, litigation against OB/GYN doctors accounted for over $3.5 billion in claims. Many states have enhanced medical malpractice laws designed to speed up and compensate injured patients.

Cyber attacks
Recent news that Russian cyber thieves stole billions of passwords should create heightened awareness about the risks and need for cyber insurance. The problem, Munich Re explains, stems from the fact that “most traditional property and liability policies provide no cover for cyber risks” although there still may be a duty to defend until such time as coverage is determined.

Social Media
Social media is becoming popular with many businesses, and this increases the liability risks. The combination of personal use and business use combined with privacy laws increases the risk to business of being sued by employees and other third parties. There is definite increased risk of defamation, libel and slander for firms who don’t outsource the service.

Directors & Officers Liability
Most business owners don’t believe they can or will be sued despite statistics that show otherwise. The latest number by Chubb Insurance Company shows that about 20% of firms have been sued for directors and officers negligence. Claims can be made by shareholders, regulators, family members, customers, vendors and competitors.