In California, errors and omissions insurance, also known as professional liability insurance, is a must-have for real estate agents and brokers.
This type of insurance protects against claims of negligence, misrepresentation, or other professional errors that can result in financial losses for clients.
To qualify for this insurance, California real estate agents and brokers must have a valid California real estate license.
The cost of errors and omissions insurance in California varies depending on factors such as the agent's or broker's experience, location, and type of business.
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What Is Errors and Omissions Insurance?
Errors and omissions insurance, also known as E&O insurance, is a type of business insurance designed to protect real estate agents from lawsuits resulting from professional mistakes.
Typing up incorrect property sizes, like "1,080 sq ft" instead of "1,800 sq ft", can lead to financial loss for clients and potentially end a real estate agent's career.
E&O insurance can cover attorney's fees, court and witness costs, and settlements, judgments, and fines.
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Even the most careful real estate agent can make a huge mistake by using the wrong words, as seen in the example of a solar-powered home with limitations not mentioned.
Real estate E&O insurance policies are typically customized to suit the needs of each business.
Here are some examples of what E&O insurance can cover:
- Attorney’s fees
- Court and witness costs
- Settlements, judgments, and fines
General liability insurance does not protect against lawsuits resulting from professional mistakes, as seen in the example of a home inspector giving a clean bill of health but missing a huge problem.
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Benefits and Features
Having a reliable real estate insurance agent can make a huge difference in navigating the competitive real estate industry. A business insurance agent near you will help you ensure you have the coverage you need to protect your investment.
The benefits of using an insurance agent for real estate are numerous. They'll help you navigate the terrain and provide the coverage you need to protect your investment.
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A real estate insurance agent will provide you with expert advice and guidance throughout the process. This can be especially helpful for buyers, sellers, and investors who may not be familiar with the intricacies of real estate insurance.
Using an insurance agent for real estate can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that you have the right coverage in place. This can provide peace of mind and financial protection for your investment.
Cost and Coverage
Errors and omissions insurance for real estate in California can be a significant expense, but understanding the costs and coverage options can help you make informed decisions. Annual premiums start as low as $400/year.
The amount of coverage you need will impact your total costs, with higher coverage levels coming at a higher cost. To get a clear and accurate quote, it's essential to speak with an agent, as they can perform a risk analysis tailored to your business.
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Litigation costs associated with E&O insurance claims may be covered, even in cases of false accusations. This can provide peace of mind and financial protection for your business.
To save money on errors and omissions coverage, consider purchasing the right amount of coverage, choosing a higher deductible, or buying from a reputable provider like biBERK, which can offer up to 20% savings.
On average, E&O coverage costs between $500 to $1,000 per employee per year, with estimated annual costs ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 for businesses with multiple employees.
Industry and Business Risks
Business size plays a significant role in determining the level of risk. Small businesses, which typically have fewer employees and lower rates, are more vulnerable to lawsuits.
Independent realtors, with their cheapest rates, are often at a higher risk of facing lawsuits due to their clients' higher budgets.
The industry you operate in also affects the types of risks you face, with commercial real estate posing more risks than residential real estate.
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Industry Risks
Commercial real estate involves more risks than residential real estate.
Industry risks can vary greatly depending on the type of business you're in. For example, accounting firms face the risk of unfulfilled duties, such as failing to file a client's tax return by a specific deadline.
Your business may be based on sharing your expertise, in which case you need comprehensive insurance to protect against damages or legal costs. This is where errors & omissions insurance comes in, providing coverage for professionals like accountants.
If you're in a high-risk industry like commercial real estate, you may need to pay more for insurance to cover the potential damages.
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Agent Requirements
As a real estate agent, you're likely aware of the risks involved in the business. To be eligible for E and O insurance, which can protect you from lawsuits and financial ruin, you must meet certain requirements.
Most real estate companies are small businesses, and many are sole proprietorships, making them especially vulnerable to lawsuits.
No owner, agent, or member of the applicant company can have had their license revoked, been investigated, or been subject to any disciplinary action by a licensing board, real estate association, or regulatory body within the last 5 years.
A single lawsuit can devastate a small business, and even if it's baseless or frivolous, you must pay to defend yourself and your business.
No owner, agent, or member of the applicant company can have been cancelled, refused real estate E and O insurance, or declined by an insurance carrier during the last 5 years, except due to loss of market or non-payment of premium.
To qualify for certain E and O premium options, you must answer "True" to all 7 statements, including one that states the applicant's combined total gross revenues did not exceed $300,000 for the last three-year period.
No owner or real estate agent of the company can have an exclusive listing agreement with any builder or developer, and no owner, agent, or member can be involved in appraisal services, property management, development, or construction.
The applicant and anyone to whom this business insurance will apply must not be aware of any professional liability claim or acts, errors, omission, or personal injuries that might reasonably be expected to be the basis of a claim made against them within the past 5 years.
No owner, real estate agent, or member of the applicant can have provided services related to pre-foreclosed or bank-owned properties that included involvement in any eviction procedures, delivering or negotiating cash for keys offers, or property rehabilitation.
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Claims and Filing
If you need to file an E&O insurance claim in California, start by reviewing your policy and gathering necessary information. This includes your business name, policy number, E&O coverage details, current contact information, and a brief description of the incident.
You'll also want to contact your insurance agent to inform them of the situation. This is a good opportunity to ask questions about your coverage, deductibles, and options if the issue goes to court. Document everything, including interactions with the insurance company.
If you're unsure about any part of the process, consider consulting a licensed attorney who can help you navigate the case. They can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process.
Here are the key pieces of information you'll need to file a claim:
- Name of business
- Policy number as well as E&O coverage details
- Current contact information
- A brief description of the incident
Keep in mind that litigation costs associated with E&O insurance claims may be covered even in the case of false accusations.
California Specifics
As a real estate agent in California, you're probably aware that most real estate companies are small businesses, and a single lawsuit can devastate any small business, including yours.
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Many real estate agents in California are sole proprietors, meaning a single person handles everything, making them especially vulnerable to lawsuits.
In California, an insurance policy with sufficient coverage is crucial for protecting your business against costly mistakes and lawsuits.
A well-versed insurance agent can help you navigate the laws and regulations surrounding real estate in California, which will help you avoid costly mistakes.
As a result, you can make your real estate transaction appropriately, which is especially important in California where the laws and regulations can be complex and ever-changing.
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Providers and Agents
As a real estate agent in California, it's essential to have a reliable provider for your errors and omissions insurance. Balsiger Insurance works with top real estate E&O insurance providers in the nation.
Most real estate companies are small businesses, and sole proprietorships are common, making it crucial to have sufficient insurance coverage. A single lawsuit can devastate any small business, and Realtors are especially vulnerable.
If you're looking for a provider, you can contact Balsiger Insurance at 1-866-872-0156 for a free business insurance quote. Their experienced agents can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
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Benefits of Using an Agent
Using an insurance agent for real estate can be a game-changer. A reliable agent will help you navigate the competitive real estate industry and ensure you have the coverage you need to protect your investment.
Having a business insurance agent near you can be a huge advantage. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions.
The real estate industry is complex, and it's easy to get overwhelmed. That's why having an insurance agent on your side can be a lifesaver.
A good insurance agent will help you find the right coverage for your specific needs. They can also help you understand the fine print and avoid costly mistakes.
In a competitive market, having the right insurance coverage can give you a competitive edge.
Providers
Balsiger Insurance works with top real estate E&O insurance providers in the nation.
You can reach out to our business insurance agents to learn more about the type and amount of coverage you need.
The right amount of professional liability insurance is crucial for protecting your business, and our agents can help you determine what's right for you.
Balsiger Insurance can answer any questions you might have and go over everything you need to know.
Contact our office for a free real estate agent insurance quote at 1-866-872-0156.
Agent
As a real estate agent, it's essential to understand your insurance options and requirements. Costs can vary, but 38% of agents pay under $600 per year for E&O insurance, while 44% pay between $600-$1,200 per year, and 18% pay over $1,200 per year.
To be eligible for insurance, you'll need to meet certain requirements, such as not having had your license revoked or been subject to disciplinary action within the last 5 years.
Most real estate companies are small businesses, and as a sole proprietor, you're especially vulnerable to lawsuits. In fact, a single lawsuit can devastate your business, and you may have to shut your doors permanently.
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If you're a real estate agent, consider investing in an insurance policy with sufficient coverage to protect your business. You can get a free business insurance quote by calling 1-866-872-0156 or contacting Balsiger Insurance.
Here are the insurance requirements to keep in mind:
- No owner, agent or member of the applicant company has had their license revoked, been investigated or been subject to any disciplinary action by any licensing board, real estate association or other regulatory body within the last 5 years.
- No owner, agent or member of the applicant company has been cancelled, refused real estate e&o insurance or declined by an insurance carrier during the last 5 years (except due to loss of market or non payment of premium).
- No owner, agent or member of the company is involved in appraisal services, property management, development or construction.
- No owner or real estate agent of the company has an exclusive listing agreement with any builder/developer.
- The applicant's combined total gross revenues did not exceed $300,000 for the last three (3) year period (gross revenues are defined as all fees and commissions before expenses payable to employees and independent contractors).
- The applicant and anyone to whom this business insurance will apply is not aware of any professional liability claim or any acts, errors, omission or Personal Injuries which might reasonably be expected to be the basis of a claim made against them within the past 5 years.
- No owner, real estate agent or member of the applicant has provided services related to pre-foreclosed or bank owned properties that included involvement in any eviction procedures, delivering or negotiating cash for keys offers or property rehabilitation.
Why Berk Eo?
We're the experts when it comes to insuring small businesses. This is because biBERK E&O Insurance has a deep understanding of the specific needs and risks faced by small businesses.
Our team is dedicated to providing personalized service and support to help small businesses thrive. This includes offering flexible coverage options and competitive pricing.
We're not just any insurance provider, we're a partner that truly understands the unique challenges of small businesses.
Sources
- https://www.theceshop.com/agent-essentials/real-estate-agent-encyclopedia/errors-and-omissions-insurance
- https://balsigerinsurance.com/errors-and-omissions-insurance-real-estate/
- https://www.cresinsurance.com/insurance/real-estate-errors-omissions/california-individual/
- https://www.agencyheight.com/e-o-insurance-for-real-estate/
- https://www.biberk.com/small-business-insurance/errors-omissions-insurance
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