What caterer insurance covers
| Coverage | What it protects |
|---|---|
| General liability | Injuries and property damage at an event |
| Product liability | Illness from food you served |
| Liquor liability | Covered claims from alcohol you serve |
| Commercial auto | Your business vehicles and covered liability |
| Inland marine / equipment | Gear you take off-site |
| Property | Your kitchen and contents |
| Workers' compensation | Covered staff injuries |
Coverage depends on the policy's limits, terms and exclusions. Workers' compensation is generally required in Illinois when you have employees.
Do you serve alcohol at events?
If you pour or sell alcohol, review liquor liability before the event. Many venues require it before you can serve. Illinois caterers serving liquor also need the right license for their operation. See our liquor liability insurance page and Illinois dram shop guide.
Venue certificates, fast
Banquet halls, hotels, parks and corporate clients ask for a certificate of insurance and may require additional insured status. We send certificates the same day, so paperwork does not hold up your booking. Bring the venue's requirements early: additional insured protection comes from the policy or endorsement, not from the certificate alone.
What caterer insurance costs
Cost depends on annual sales, whether you serve alcohol, number of vehicles and staff, and claims history.
| Type of caterer | Typical annual premium |
|---|---|
| Caterer | $1,500–$10,000 |
The biggest factor is whether you serve alcohol and how much you sell. A drop-off caterer with no bar service sits at the low end.
Call Tom for a quote that reflects your kitchen, equipment, staff, vehicles and events. Our catering insurance cost guide explains the factors to compare.
Catering insurance for one event or ongoing work
Doing a single event, building a new catering business or working a full calendar? We offer single-event and month-to-month policies. The right fit depends on your contract dates, where you work, the food and equipment you bring, whether you serve alcohol, and how often you are on the road.
Get a catering insurance quote without a delay
Bring the venue contract, certificate requirements, event schedule and a quick picture of your operation. It helps us match the conversation to the work you actually do.
- The types of events you cater and the venues you use
- Whether you drop off food, stay to serve or handle alcohol
- Your annual sales, staff and any delivery vehicles
- Your kitchen, mobile equipment and client contract requirements
If your team drives to events or you have employees, review commercial auto coverage and workers' compensation for restaurants as part of the same conversation.
Why caterers choose E&A
- We specialize in food and hospitality businesses.
- 35+ years running restaurants means we understand off-site food service.
- Multiple carriers, one call.
- Same-day venue certificates.
Caterer insurance FAQs
Do caterers need insurance in Illinois?
General liability is not a universal statewide requirement for caterers, but venues commonly require it. Illinois generally requires workers' compensation when you have employees; licensing and contract requirements may require other coverage.
Does my restaurant policy cover catering?
Not always. Off-site events, equipment and vehicles may need additional coverage. We review your policy for free.
Do I need liquor liability if the client buys the alcohol?
You may still need it if your staff serves the alcohol. Talk to us before the event so the policy matches your role.
Can I add a venue as additional insured?
Yes, subject to the policy and carrier's terms. We help arrange the required endorsement and same-day certificate. A certificate alone does not change your coverage.
Does it cover food poisoning claims?
Product liability, included in many caterer general liability policies, can cover eligible food poisoning claims. Check the policy's terms, exclusions and limits.
How fast can I get covered?
Usually within 24 hours. Call 847-651-3834.