A bar commonly requires commercial general liability with liquor liability coverage, commercial property insurance and business interruption coverage. Additional coverage may be needed depending on the premises, food service, entertainment, security and other operations.

Liquor liability may be provided as part of the liability insurance arranged for a licensed establishment. The business must accurately disclose its alcohol sales, operating hours and liquor-service operations.

Coverage depends on the policy wording and circumstances. Some policies contain assault, battery or intentional-act exclusions that can substantially restrict coverage. Ask your broker how the proposed policy addresses these incidents.

A liability claim may allege that the establishment’s service of alcohol contributed to an incident after a patron left. Liquor liability coverage may respond to covered claims, subject to the policy wording, limits and circumstances.

Live music, DJs, dancing, karaoke and other entertainment must be disclosed to the insurer. Coverage and eligibility depend on the type and frequency of entertainment provided.

A patio can be included in the insured operations, but it must be disclosed. The insurer may require information about its location, capacity, alcohol service, heaters and seasonal use.

Business interruption coverage may help replace lost income when operations are interrupted by insured physical damage. A closure caused only by a regulatory order, licence issue or loss of customers would not necessarily be covered.

There is no single insurance policy universally required for every pub or bar. However, landlords, lenders, franchisors and the City or municipality may require specific coverage or proof of insurance before allowing an establishment to operate.

Yes, although insurers may request information about the owners’ and managers’ experience, projected sales, alcohol percentage, operating hours, capacity, security and entertainment.