Insurance for Private Investigation Firms: What You Need to Know
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 25
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 29
Private investigators and executive protection professionals operate in high-risk environments. Whether conducting surveillance, background checks, or protecting high-profile individuals, these roles involve sensitive tasks that can lead to legal claims, physical injury, or property damage.
To safeguard your business and reputation, having the right insurance coverage is essential. At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in providing tailored business insurance solutions for private investigation firms and executive protection companies across the United States.
General Liability Insurance
General liability insurance protects your firm from third-party bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury claims.
Example:
If a private investigator accidentally damages a client’s property during surveillance or a protection agent injures a bystander while intervening in a threat, general liability insurance covers legal and medical costs.
Coverage Limits:
Up to $5 million per claim and aggregate for specialized firms.
Professional Liability Insurance (Errors & Omissions)
This coverage protects against claims of negligence, mistakes, or failure to perform duties.
Example:
If a client alleges your investigator provided inaccurate information or your executive protection team failed to prevent a breach, professional liability insurance helps cover legal defense and settlements.
Specialized Coverage Includes:
Libel & slander, personal injury, assault & battery, and firearms liability.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Private investigators and protection agents often work in physically demanding and unpredictable environments. Workers’ comp covers medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job.
Example:
An investigator is injured while conducting field surveillance—workers’ comp pays for treatment and recovery.
Minimum Premiums:
Typically start around $7,500 annually for firms with multiple employees.
Commercial Auto Insurance
If your firm uses vehicles for surveillance or protection assignments, commercial auto insurance is essential. Personal auto policies won’t cover business use.
Example:
A protection agent gets into an accident while transporting a client—commercial auto insurance covers vehicle damage and liability.
Coverage Includes:
Liability limits up to $1 million and protection for both company-owned and personal vehicles used for work.
Additional Coverage for Executive Protection Firms
Executive protection companies may require specialized coverage such as:
Umbrella Insurance – Adds extra liability protection beyond standard policies.
Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) – Covers claims of harassment, discrimination, or wrongful termination.
Commercial Property Insurance – Protects offices and equipment from fire, theft, or natural disasters.
Final Thoughts
Private investigators and executive protection professionals face unique risks that demand comprehensive insurance solutions. From liability claims to workplace injuries, the right coverage ensures your business remains protected and compliant.
Whether you're a solo investigator or a full-scale protection agency, Wexford Insurance helps you operate with confidence. Contact us today to get a quote and secure your business.
