I know this question has been raised periodically, but I got a different response than I expected from my insurance company this morning. The recent discussion of limiting liability in the shop raised my anxiety level about possible liability related to customers/visitors to my shop if it is considered a “business.” I consider myself a hobby level turner, though I do sell a limited number of bowls, perhaps $2,000 a year +/-. I called my homeowners insurance company (the Hartford) to ask about getting coverage as a small craft business. After I described my situation to the agent, she researched it, and came back to tell me that as long as my sales were under $5,000 per year, this would still be covered under general homeowners liability and medical expense limits. I understand that this is not product liability, but more premises related issues (someone falls entering my shop, etc.). My biggest worry was that if it were “discovered” through a claim that I was operating a “business” it would risk voiding my homeowners policy. I was assured that this would not be the case.
I took notes that I’ll hang onto to document the call, and she also assured me that my inquiry and the response would be recorded in the event that a question were ever to be raised in the future. I wonder if anyone else has received a similar opinion from their insurer? I expect to sleep better going forward.
I took notes that I’ll hang onto to document the call, and she also assured me that my inquiry and the response would be recorded in the event that a question were ever to be raised in the future. I wonder if anyone else has received a similar opinion from their insurer? I expect to sleep better going forward.