Cannabis business insurance: What is it and do I need it?

Insureon Staff.
Cannabis business insurance protects dispensaries and other cannabis companies from unexpected lawsuits and other risks. It can be required by your state or local government.
View video transcript.

[video: an animated header displays the Insureon logo. Underneath it, a subheading displays the text: "What insurance coverage do I need for my cannabis business?"]

MALE VOICEOVER: When it comes to cannabis business insurance, having the right coverage can protect your business from accidents and lawsuits.

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "The right coverage protects your business from accidents and lawsuits."]

Some policies or bonds may be required by your state or local government, while others are part of a smart risk management plan.

From theft of merchandise to a customer tripping and falling, a claim could financially devastate your business.

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "From inventory theft to customer injuries, a claim could devastate your business."]

So, what types of insurance should a cannabis business look for?

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "What types of insurance do I need for my cannabis business?"]

Some of the most popular, and sometimes required, insurance policies are...

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "The most common policies a cannabis dispensary needs include..."]

General liability insurance, which protects against basic third party risks, such as a customer injury, or damage to their property.

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "General liability guards against:"]

[video: Under above header, three bullet points display the text: "Customer bodily injuries"; "Damaged customer property"; "Libel and advertising injuries"]

Product liability insurance will help pay for legal costs if a client sues over an adverse reaction to one of your products.

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "Product liability covers:"]

[video: Under above header, two bullet points display the text: "Allergic reactions to cannabis" and "Panic attacks and other adverse effects"]

Commercial property insurance which helps pay for property damage to your storefront or business personal property. This policy is often required by landlords.

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "Commercial property helps with:"]

[video: Under above header, three bullet points display the text: "Business property damage"; "Theft of merchandise"; "Vandalism"]

Commercial auto insurance covers vehicle theft, vandalism, and accidents involving your company's vehicle. Most states require this coverage for businesses that own vehicles.

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "Commercial auto covers:"]

[video: Under above header, three bullet points display the text: "Physical damage and collisions"; "Injuries caused by your vehicle"; "Vehicle repairs due to weather or vandalism"]

Workers' compensation insurance is usually required for businesses with employees, and protects against workplace illnesses or injuries.

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "Workers' compensation helps with:"]

[video: Under above header, three bullet points display the text: "Employee medical expenses"; "Disability benefits"; "Legal fees from lawsuits"]

Surety bonds guarantee that your cannabis business will fulfill contractual terms and pay suppliers. Many states require a surety bond as part of licensing requirements for a cannabis business.

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "Surety bonds guarantee:"]

[video: Under above header, three bullet points display the text: "Compliance with laws"; "Fulfilled license requirements"; "Protection from breach of contract"]

Finished stock insurance covers the value of your cannabis inventory should it become damaged and unable to be sold.

[video: an illustrated header displays the text: "Finished stock guards against:"]

[video: Under above header, three bullet points display the text: "Burglary and theft"; "Fire and other natural disasters"; "Vandalism or intentional damage"]

The specifics of your cannabis operations will help determine other types of insurance coverage that you may need. It's best to speak with your dedicated insurance agent to know which policies can meet your insurance needs and your budget.

Get free insurance quotes for your cannabis business with Insureon today.

[video: an illustrated white header displays the text: "Insureon is your #1 agency for small business insurance"]

Click the link to get started.

[video: an animated header displays the Insureon logo]

Similar to other types of retail stores, cannabis businesses (including dispensaries) are just as at risk to common liabilities, like merchandise theft, customer injuries, and more.

Because of the highly regulated nature of cannabis products, some insurance policies and bonds may be required in your area of operation, while others are just highly recommended to keep your business protected from frivolous, costly lawsuits.

Learn more about cannabis business insurance.

Get insurance for your business with Insureon

Complete Insureon’s easy online application today to compare small business insurance quotes from leading insurance companies. You can also consult with our dedicated insurance agent on your cannabis business insurance needs.

Once you find the right policy for your small business, you can begin coverage in less than 24 hours.

Get business insurance quotes from trusted carriers
What kind of work do you do?