Public Officials Liability Insurance
Essential protection for those who serve the public.
Public officials make decisions that affect citizens' lives, property, and rights. When those decisions are challenged—even when officials act in good faith—the legal costs can be devastating. Public officials liability protects elected officials, appointed officials, and government employees from claims arising from their official duties.
Get a Public Officials Liability Quote
We work with carriers specializing in public entity coverage
What Public Officials Liability Covers
Wrongful Acts
Defense and liability coverage for claims of errors, omissions, misstatements, misleading statements, neglect, or breach of duty committed in an official capacity.
Decisions & Actions
Protection when official decisions are challenged—zoning denials, permit decisions, ordinance enforcement, contract awards, and policy implementations.
Defense Costs
Legal fees, court costs, expert witnesses, and other defense expenses—often the largest expense even when officials are ultimately vindicated.
Civil Rights Claims
Coverage for allegations of civil rights violations, discrimination, or denial of due process in the exercise of official duties.
Personal Liability Protection
Shields personal assets of officials and employees when sued individually for actions taken in their official capacity.
What's NOT Covered
Understanding exclusions helps identify additional coverage needs:
Who Needs This Coverage?
Anyone exercising governmental authority needs protection from the liability that comes with official decision-making:
Mayors & Council Members
Policy decisions, ordinances, and executive actions face legal challenges
Planning & Zoning Boards
Land use decisions frequently result in litigation
City/Town Managers
Administrative decisions affecting employees and citizens
Department Heads
Operational decisions within their authority
Board & Commission Members
Appointed officials making binding decisions
Government Employees
Actions taken within scope of employment
Real Claims Examples
See how public officials liability responds to common scenarios:
Zoning Denial Challenge
Scenario: A developer sues the planning commission claiming their rezoning denial was arbitrary and caused $2 million in lost project value.
Coverage: Public officials liability covers legal defense ($150,000+) and any settlement, protecting both the commission members and the municipality.
Contract Award Dispute
Scenario: An unsuccessful bidder sues claiming the council improperly awarded a construction contract to a politically connected firm.
Coverage: Coverage provides defense against bid protest litigation and any damages awarded for procedural errors.
Permit Decision Lawsuit
Scenario: A property owner sues claiming the building inspector wrongfully denied their permit application, delaying their project.
Coverage: Public officials liability defends the inspector and municipality, covering legal costs and any judgment.
Policy Implementation Challenge
Scenario: Citizens sue claiming a new parking ordinance was implemented unfairly and targets specific neighborhoods.
Coverage: Coverage defends against claims that official policies were discriminatory or improperly implemented.
What Affects Your Premium?
Public officials liability premiums depend on your entity's profile:
Population Served
Larger populations mean more interactions and greater exposure to claims
Entity Type
Cities face different exposures than townships, counties, or special districts
Services Provided
More services (police, fire, utilities, planning) increase exposure
Development Activity
High-growth areas see more zoning and land use litigation
Claims History
Prior claims significantly impact availability and pricing
Coverage Limits
Higher limits cost more but provide essential protection
Important: Public officials liability is typically part of a comprehensive municipal insurance package that also includes general liability, property, auto, and law enforcement coverage. Standalone policies are also available.
Protect Your Public Officials
Public officials liability is essential protection for those who serve. Let's discuss your municipality's needs and find coverage that protects your officials and employees.
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We also serve other areas in West Virginia
Ryan Parrack Insurance
Serving Elkins, Buckhannon & Northern/Central WV
Elkins, WV