Tina, a real estate broker in Lafayette, had handled hundreds of home tours without incident. But during one routine showing, a client tripped on a loose floorboard and fractured their wrist. What should have been an ordinary day turned into a legal headache—and a medical liability. The client filed a lawsuit, and suddenly, Tina was facing thousands in legal fees and potential damages. Fortunately, she had general liability insurance. Without it, the outcome could’ve devastated her business.
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
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.
Let’s break down a few situations where general liability insurance becomes more than just a line item—it becomes a lifeline.
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.
An agent accidentally knocks over an expensive sculpture during a walkthrough. Your coverage helps pay for the replacement, avoiding out-of-pocket costs.
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.
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)
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:
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.
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.
Make sure your policy limits are high enough to cover major claims. Medical costs and legal fees can add up fast.
Consider pairing general liability insurance with other policies, like professional liability, cyber insurance, or business property protection.
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.
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.
Founded in 2017, Kastner Insurance Group is a full-service, independent insurance broker based in Lafayette, LA. Our insurance agents specialize in offering a variety of insurance products tailored to individual and commercial needs, making sure clients receive personalized and comprehensive coverage options from a variety of insurance companies/insurance carriers.
With over 43 years of combined experience, the team at Kastner Insurance Group is dedicated to providing expert advice and exceptional service. They proudly serve professional offices and businesses across Lafayette city/parish, Youngsville, Broussard, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Alexandria, Acadiana, and statewide in Louisiana.
Call us today or visit our website for a customized quote.
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