Why General Liability Insurance Is a Must for Louisiana Real Estate Professionals

General liability insurance is designed to protect real estate professionals from third-party claims involving bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury.

Even in an office-based industry, accidents happen. A client could slip in your office lobby or claim you damaged their property during a home visit. Without coverage, you'd be on the hook for legal costs, settlements, or repairs.

Here’s what a general liability policy typically helps cover:

• Medical expenses if someone is injured on your property

• Legal fees and court costs from a lawsuit

• Settlements or judgments

• Claims of slander, libel, or advertising injury

Why Louisiana Real Estate Professionals Are Especially at Risk

Louisiana’s mix of unpredictable weather, older home structures, and high transaction volume all contribute to increased risk. Agents in cities like Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and Alexandria face unique challenges that general liability coverage helps offset.

For example, heavy rain can make property visits slippery, and older homes may hide unexpected hazards like loose stairs or exposed nails. One misstep from a client or vendor—and your firm is facing legal action.

Real-Life Scenarios Where Coverage Counts

Let’s break down a few situations where general liability insurance becomes more than just a line item—it becomes a lifeline.

Open House Injuries

You host an open house. A visitor falls on a slick front step and ends up in the ER. They sue for their medical bills and lost wages. Your policy steps in to cover the claim.

Damage to a Client’s Property

An agent accidentally knocks over an expensive sculpture during a walkthrough. Your coverage helps pay for the replacement, avoiding out-of-pocket costs.

Accusations of Slander or Misleading Marketing

You list a property with a description that a competitor claims is misleading. They sue for defamation or loss of business. General liability coverage helps you defend the claim—even if it’s baseless.

What General Liability Doesn’t Cover

While it’s a vital part of any risk management plan, general liability insurance doesn’t cover everything. It won’t help with:

• Employee injuries (that’s what workers’ comp is for)

• Errors in contracts or transactions (E&O insurance is the right policy)

• Damage to your own office or property (you’d need commercial property insurance)

How to Choose the Right Policy

Not all policies are created equal. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it in real estate, especially across different Louisiana markets.

Here are a few steps to help you select the right coverage:

Know Your Risk

Evaluate how often you’re out in the field, how many clients you interact with, and whether you host events. The more public-facing your business, the more protection you need.

Work With a Specialist

Partner with an insurance provider who understands real estate and can explain policy language clearly. You want someone who can tailor a plan for your firm, not just sell you a generic bundle.

Review Coverage Limits

Make sure your policy limits are high enough to cover major claims. Medical costs and legal fees can add up fast.

Ask About Additional Coverage

Consider pairing general liability insurance with other policies, like professional liability, cyber insurance, or business property protection.

Why Every Louisiana Real Estate Firm Should Carry It

General liability insurance isn’t a luxury. It’s part of the cost of doing business—just like your MLS dues or continuing education credits. It protects your reputation, your finances, and your future.

Whether you’re a solo broker or part of a larger real estate group, the risks you face are real. One accident, one lawsuit, one unexpected moment could throw everything off track.

Take Action Before a Claim Hits

You don’t want to scramble for help after the damage is done. Get ahead of it.

At Kastner Insurance, we specialize in helping Louisiana real estate professionals find coverage that fits. From downtown Baton Rouge to the historic neighborhoods of Alexandria, we understand the risks you face—and how to protect your business from them.

Ready to put a solid foundation under your business? Reach out today for a no-pressure consultation.