General Liability Insurance for Daycare and Childcare in Ohio: Coverage, Costs, and Requirements

General liability insurance is a required and essential coverage for Ohio daycare and childcare facilities. It covers third-party bodily injury and property damage claims arising from your facility and care operations. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) requires licensed childcare centers and type A and type B home providers to carry GL as a condition of licensing.

Quick Answer

Estimated general liability premiums for Ohio childcare facilities:

Facility Size	Estimated Annual GL Premium
Small daycare (up to 20 children)	$750 to $1,500 per year
Mid-size center (21 to 60 children)	$1,400 to $3,000 per year

Ohio childcare GL premiums are near the national average.

What GL Covers for Ohio Childcare Facilities

Bodily Injury to Children

Covers claims arising from injuries to children in your care. Common examples: a child who falls on the playground, a child injured during an activity, or a visitor child injured at your facility.

Bodily Injury to Parents and Visitors

Covers claims from parents, guardians, and other adults who are injured at your facility during drop-off, pick-up, or facility visits.

Property Damage

Covers damage to a parent's or third party's property that occurs at your facility or during care operations.

Defense Costs

GL covers attorney fees, court costs, and settlement amounts for covered claims, even if the claim is unfounded.

What GL Does Not Cover for Ohio Childcare Facilities

Abuse and Molestation

Standard GL policies exclude claims arising from child abuse or molestation. Ohio childcare operators must purchase a separate abuse and molestation (A&M) coverage endorsement or standalone policy. This is the most important coverage gap for childcare facilities.

Professional Errors

GL excludes claims arising from professional negligence in childcare or early education. Professional liability insurance covers those claims.

Employee Injuries

Ohio workers compensation is administered by the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC) and is mandatory for employers with employees. BWC coverage is purchased through the state, not a private carrier. GL does not cover employee injuries.

Ohio-Specific Considerations

ODJFS Licensing Requirement

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services requires licensed childcare centers and type A and type B home providers to carry GL insurance as a condition of their license. Confirm current minimum limits with ODJFS when applying for or renewing your license.

Abuse and Molestation Coverage Is Essential

Ohio childcare operators should not operate without abuse and molestation coverage. Standard GL excludes it. Purchase an A&M endorsement or standalone policy and confirm it is in place before accepting any children into care.

BWC Is a Separate Requirement

Ohio requires employers to purchase workers compensation through the state BWC, not a private carrier. If your childcare center employs staff, BWC enrollment is mandatory and separate from GL insurance. BWC and GL cover different risks: BWC covers employee injuries, GL covers third-party child and visitor claims.

Ohio Childcare and Development Fund (CCDF) Requirements

Ohio childcare providers accepting CCDF (childcare subsidy) funding through county Job and Family Services offices must meet state licensing insurance requirements. Confirm insurance requirements with your county JFS office before accepting CCDF children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Ohio daycare centers need general liability insurance?

Yes. ODJFS requires licensed childcare centers and home providers to carry GL as a condition of licensing.

What does GL cover for an Ohio childcare facility?

GL covers bodily injury to children, parents, and visitors at your facility, property damage, and defense costs.

Does GL cover child abuse claims at an Ohio daycare?

No. Standard GL policies exclude abuse and molestation claims. Purchase a separate abuse and molestation coverage endorsement or policy.

How much does GL cost for an Ohio daycare?

Ohio childcare facilities typically pay $750 to $1,500 per year for a small center GL policy.

Does Ohio BWC replace the need for GL?

No. Ohio BWC covers employee workplace injuries and is purchased through the state. GL covers third-party child and visitor claims. Both are needed for childcare centers with employees.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance or legal advice. Coverage details and costs vary by carrier and individual circumstances. Consult a licensed insurance agent and attorney for guidance specific to your situation.

Sources

• Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
• Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation
• Insurance Information Institute
• National Association for the Education of Young Children