Errors and omissions (E&O) / professional liability
InsuranceFinder coverage guide · Updated September 2026
Errors and omissions (E&O) / professional liability insurance commonly responds to claims that a service professional’s work, advice, or design caused a client financial loss — when those claims fall under the form. Commercial general liability typically does not cover professional services the way an E&O policy can. What is covered still depends on the profession, the claims-made terms, and the contract.
Professional liability / E&O coverage breakdown
E&O forms are usually claims-made. Retro dates, prior acts, and defense wording matter as much as the limit.
Claims alleging mistakes, omissions, or negligent advice in covered professional services, subject to the policy definitions and exclusions.
Legal defense for covered claims — sometimes inside the limit, sometimes outside — as the form states.
Certain forms add coverage for related privacy or personal-injury allegations arising from professional services when endorsed.
Coverage for work done before the policy period (prior acts) and optional extended reporting periods after cancellation, when those options are on the form.
Who typically uses professional liability / E&O insurance
These policies are typically carried by accountants, lawyers, architects, engineers, consultants, insurance agents, real-estate professionals, and other fee-for-service firms whose clients rely on advice or deliverables. Contract requirements and licensing boards often drive the need — the form and engagement terms decide.
Intentional wrongdoing, criminal acts, and guaranteed results are commonly excluded. Bodily injury and property damage usually belong on CGL, not E&O. Claims known before the policy, late notice, and work outside the described profession create gaps. Education only — not advice to buy.
Agencies specializing in errors and omissions (e&o) / professional liability
Independent agencies published in our database. Open a profile for license details and state DOI links.
National carriers writing errors and omissions (e&o) / professional liability
Admitted national insurance companies writing coverage in multiple states.