General Liability Insurance for Security Guards in Texas: Coverage, Costs, and Requirements

General liability insurance is essential for Texas security guard companies, but the assault and battery (A&B) exclusion makes coverage selection critical. Standard GL covers third-party bodily injury and property damage arising from security operations -- but most GL policies exclude claims arising from assault and battery by your guards. Security companies in Texas must understand this exclusion and evaluate whether their GL policy includes an A&B endorsement or whether separate A&B coverage is needed.

Quick Answer

Estimated general liability premiums for Texas security guard companies:

Business Size	Estimated Annual GL Premium
Small security firm (1 to 5 guards)	$700 to $1,400 per year
Larger security firm (multiple sites)	$1,300 to $2,600 per year

Texas security guard GL premiums are near the national average.

What GL Covers for Texas Security Guard Companies

Bodily Injury to Third Parties

If a visitor, client employee, or other third party is injured at a location you are guarding -- a slip and fall in a lobby, an incident at a checkpoint -- GL covers the resulting bodily injury claim against your business.

Property Damage to Third Parties

If your guards cause damage to a client's property or a third party's property during security operations -- a damaged door, broken equipment -- GL covers the resulting property damage claim.

Defense Costs

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

Personal and Advertising Injury

GL covers claims of libel, slander, or false advertising arising from your business communications.

What GL Does Not Cover for Texas Security Guard Companies

Assault and Battery

Most standard GL policies exclude claims arising from assault and battery by your guards, even when the guard acted in defense of persons or property. This is the most critical coverage gap for security companies. A GL policy with an A&B endorsement or standalone assault and battery coverage fills this gap. Confirm with your broker whether your GL policy includes or excludes A&B.

Professional Liability (E&O)

GL does not cover claims arising from security consulting, risk assessments, or professional recommendations. If your firm provides consulting services alongside physical security, professional liability (E&O) insurance covers those claims.

Employee Injuries

Texas does not require private employers to carry workers compensation, but GL does not cover employee injuries regardless. Security companies with guards should evaluate workers comp given the physical nature of security work.

Auto Liability

GL does not cover auto liability from company vehicles used in patrol or response operations. Commercial auto insurance covers those vehicles.

Texas-Specific Considerations

Texas Private Security Bureau

Texas security guard companies and individual guards must be licensed through the Texas Department of Public Safety's Private Security Bureau. Licensing requirements include background checks, training requirements, and bond/insurance requirements. GL is separate from licensing bond requirements but is required by most client contracts.

Texas Workers Compensation

Texas is the only state that does not require private employers to carry workers compensation. Security companies with guards may choose to carry workers comp voluntarily. Given the physical demands of security work, workers comp coverage is especially relevant for Texas security firms.

Texas Security Market

Texas's large commercial real estate market, energy sector, event venues, and retail corridors support a significant security guard industry. Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio each have active security service markets. Client contracts in these markets routinely require GL certificates with A&B coverage.

Assault and Battery Endorsement

Many Texas security client contracts specifically require GL coverage to include assault and battery. Request a policy with an A&B endorsement or rider if your contracts require it. Standalone A&B coverage is also available as a separate policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does GL cover a use-of-force incident by one of my guards in Texas?

It depends on whether your GL policy includes an assault and battery endorsement. Standard GL policies exclude A&B claims. Confirm your policy's A&B coverage with your broker before accepting security contracts.

What does GL cover for a Texas security guard company?

GL covers third-party bodily injury at guarded locations, property damage to third parties, defense costs, and personal and advertising injury claims -- subject to the A&B exclusion.

Does GL replace a security bond in Texas?

No. Texas may require security companies to carry a surety bond as part of licensing. GL and a surety bond are separate requirements.

How much does GL cost for a Texas security guard company?

Texas small security firms typically pay $700 to $1,400 per year for GL coverage.

Does Texas require GL insurance for security guard companies?

Texas does not have a statewide GL mandate, but most client contracts and facility management agreements require GL as a condition of engagement.

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

• Texas Department of Public Safety Private Security Bureau
• Texas Department of Insurance
• Insurance Information Institute
• ASIS International