Business Owners Policy vs. Commercial Package Policy: Which One Suits Your Business Best?

Business owner’s policy vs. commercial package policy

Choosing the right insurance coverage is crucial for protecting your commercial construction business. From property damage and workplace injuries to contract disputes and business interruptions, construction projects have inherent risks. Even a minor incident can lead to significant financial setbacks without proper coverage, so business owner’s must understand their insurance options.

Two common insurance solutions for business owners are the business owner’s policy (BOP) and the commercial package policy (CPP). While both provide essential coverages, they cater to different types of businesses and offer varying levels of customization. Understanding the differences between a BOP and a CPP helps contractors and project owners select the best policy for their needs.

What is a business owner’s policy (BOP)?

A business owner’s policy (BOP) is a bundled insurance package designed for small to mid-sized businesses. It combines essential coverages into a cost-effective, straightforward solution for businesses with predictable risks.

A BOP typically includes:

• General liability insurance: Covers bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury claims against your business
• Property insurance: Protects your building, equipment, tools, and inventory from risks like fire, theft, or vandalism
• Business interruption insurance: Provides financial assistance if your business operations are disrupted due to covered perils

BOPs work best for businesses with predictable insurance needs, such as retail stores, wholesalers, and small manufacturing operations. They offer a standardized level of protection, making them easier to quote and purchase, often through online platforms.

What is a commercial package policy (CPP)?

A commercial package policy (CPP) is a highly customizable insurance package designed for businesses with more complex risk exposures. Unlike a business owner’s policy, a CPP allows policyholders to tailor their coverage based on their needs.

Some common coverages included in a CPP are:

• General liability insurance: Similar to a BOP but with customizable limits and endorsements
• Business interruption insurance: Can be tailored for extended periods or unique operational risks
• Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance: Provides coverage for professional mistakes, particularly important for contractors providing design or consulting services
• Professional liability insurance: Covers claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in service-based industries
• Auto insurance: Provides coverage for company vehicles used by employees
• Employment practices liability insurance (EPLI): Covers claims related to wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and other employment-related issues

A CPP is ideal for businesses that require specialized coverage, such as contractors, transportation companies, and businesses in higher-risk industries. Because CPPs are more complex, they are typically quoted using ACORD applications and placed with insurance companies specializing in different lines of insurance.

Note that not all insurance policies can be bundled into CPPs. Coverages like workers’ compensation, key person insurance, and directors & officers insurance must be purchased separately, if needed.

BOP vs. CPP: Which one is right for you?

To determine whether a business owner’s policy (BOP) or commercial package policy (CPP) is the better fit for your construction business, consider the following factors.

1. Business size and industry

A BOP is best suited for small to mid-sized businesses with relatively straightforward risks, such as retail shops, small manufacturers, restaurants, and office-based businesses. These businesses typically have predictable insurance needs and benefit from the convenience of a pre-packaged policy.

Conversely, a CPP is ideal for larger businesses or those in high-risk industries, including general contractors, specialty trades, and transportation companies. These businesses often need customized coverage to address their specific risk exposures.

2. Coverage customization

As stated, a BOP offers a one-size-fits-all package with limited customizations. This makes it an excellent choice for businesses that only need general liability, property, and business interruption insurance.

Meanwhile, a CPP provides flexibility to add specialized coverages, like errors and omissions (E&O), professional liability, and employment practices liability insurance (EPLI). This mainly benefits construction contractors who face industry-specific risks, like contract disputes and professional errors.

3. How policies are quoted and placed

BOPs are typically easy to quote online through many insurance providers. They have standardized pricing and limited customization, making them accessible for businesses that prefer a quick and easy purchasing process.

In contrast, CPPs require more detailed underwriting. They are generally quoted via ACORD applications and placed with insurance companies specializing in specific industries or coverages. This process allows businesses to get customized coverage, but it often involves a longer application and underwriting process.

4. Cost considerations

Due to their standardized coverage, BOPs generally have lower premiums. They are also cost-effective because they are designed for smaller businesses with predictable risks.

CPPs tend to have higher premiums but allow businesses to select only the coverage they need, avoiding unnecessary costs. While the upfront cost may be higher, the flexibility and tailored coverage can save money in the long run by ensuring comprehensive protection.

Why contractors and construction businesses benefit from a CPP

While a business owner’s policy may seem like a simple, cost-effective option, most commercial construction contractors and project owners benefit more from a commercial package policy. Construction work involves higher liability risks, specialized equipment, and contractual obligations that demand tailored coverage options.

For example, a general contractor overseeing multiple projects may need:

• Higher general liability limits to meet contract requirements
• E&O coverage to protect against claims of faulty design recommendations
• EPLI coverage to safeguard against employment-related claims from a growing workforce

These coverage options aren’t typically available in a standard BOP, making a CPP the preferred choice for construction businesses.

Getting the right coverage for your business

Both business owner’s policies (BOPs) and commercial package policies (CPPs) offer valuable insurance protection, but they serve different business needs. Understanding the distinctions between these policies helps contractors and construction project owners make informed decisions about their insurance coverage. Consult with an experienced insurance broker to help ensure your business is protected against potential liabilities and losses.