Foundational Explainer ยท 9 min read

Insurance Requirements in Enterprise Contracts: A Founder's Translation Guide

The insurance clauses in an enterprise MSA are deceptively simple. Most founders skim them and assume their existing policies are enough. They usually aren't.

The five clauses you'll see

Required policy types and minimum limits (CGL, Cyber, Tech E&O, Auto, WC, Umbrella). Additional Insured language naming the customer. Waiver of Subrogation in favor of the customer. Notice-of-cancellation requirements (often 30 days). Indemnification + limitation-of-liability carve-outs that interact with insurance.

Common shortfalls

The two coverages startups most often have to add or increase to satisfy an enterprise contract are Cyber (limits) and Umbrella (limits). A coverage review against the contract before signing avoids closing-day surprises.