How to Get Bar Insurance (Including Liquor Liability): A Step-by-Step Guide
Opening a bar is exciting—but it also comes with serious risks. From liquor liability to property damage, your business needs specialized insurance to stay protected. Whether you’re launching a brand-new venue or reviewing your current coverage, this guide walks you through the essential steps of getting bar insurance that fits your needs.
Why Bars Need Specialized Insurance
Bars face more risk than most businesses due to the nature of alcohol service, late hours, and high foot traffic. A standard business insurance policy usually doesn’t go far enough. That’s why getting the right coverage—from liquor liability to assault and battery—is essential to protect your finances, your staff, and your patrons.
Step 1: Gather the Right Information
Before reaching out for a quote, have the following information ready:
Your business name, location, and ownership structure
Square footage and building details
Types of alcohol served (beer, wine, liquor)
Operating hours
Entertainment offerings (live music, dancing, pool tables)
Estimated annual alcohol sales vs. food sales
Number of employees
This helps your agent provide accurate coverage and pricing tailored to your bar’s unique risk profile.
Step 2: Identify the Core Coverages You’ll Need
Here are the most essential types of insurance every bar owner should consider:
1. Liquor Liability Insurance
Covers bodily injury or property damage caused by intoxicated patrons who were served at your establishment. Many states—and landlords—require this coverage if you serve alcohol.
2. General Liability Insurance
Protects your business if someone is injured on your premises (e.g., slip and fall) or if you’re held liable for property damage to others.
3. Commercial Property Insurance
Covers your building (if owned) and contents like furniture, kitchen equipment, bar tools, sound systems, and inventory.
4. Assault and Battery Coverage
Standard liability policies often exclude fights or altercations. This endorsement helps protect you if a patron or employee is injured in a physical incident.
5. Workers’ Compensation
Required by law if you have employees. Covers medical expenses and lost wages if staff are injured on the job.
6. Business Interruption Insurance
Helps you cover lost income and operating expenses if you’re forced to close temporarily due to a covered event like a fire or storm.
7. Commercial Auto Insurance
If your bar offers deliveries or employees use a company vehicle, this coverage is necessary.
8. Cyber Liability Insurance
If your bar uses point-of-sale systems, collects credit card info, or offers Wi-Fi, cyber liability can protect you from data breaches and cyberattacks.
Step 3: Work with an Independent Insurance Agent
Choosing the right insurance isn’t just about getting the cheapest premium—it’s about getting the right protection. An independent agency like Hixson & Malinowski works with multiple carriers and can:
Compare quotes from insurers experienced in hospitality risks
Recommend endorsements or exclusions specific to your bar type
Tailor a policy based on your actual exposure—not a one-size-fits-all approach
Plus, we’ll help you understand your lease or liquor license requirements so you’re never caught off guard.
Step 4: Customize Your Coverage
Every bar is different. For example:
A neighborhood pub may need less coverage than a nightclub with live DJs.
A bar that serves only beer and wine might have lower liquor liability costs than one with a full cocktail menu.
A bar with a kitchen may require food spoilage insurance in case of equipment breakdown.
This is where your agent can fine-tune your policy to avoid paying for unnecessary coverage—or worse, missing something critical.
Step 5: Review and Renew Annually
The bar industry changes fast. New entertainment, expanding square footage, hiring more staff, or serving different types of alcohol can all affect your coverage needs. Schedule an annual insurance review to:
Adjust coverage limits
Add new endorsements
Look for premium savings or risk mitigation options
At Hixson & Malinowski, we make this process easy and informative—so you can focus on running your business, not chasing paperwork.
How Hixson & Malinowski Insurance Can Help
We specialize in helping bar and restaurant owners throughout Ohio navigate the insurance process. Our team will:
Review your business model and identify exposures
Walk you through coverage options and pricing
Ensure you meet state and landlord insurance requirements
Offer expert support when filing claims
Whether you’re opening your first bar or looking to upgrade your coverage, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Bar insurance isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a vital layer of protection for your livelihood. Getting the right mix of coverage starts with understanding your risks and working with a knowledgeable agent. Contact Hixson & Malinowski Insurance today to make sure your bar is ready to open—and stay—protected.
