The cosmetic industry is all about the business of helping people improve on or acquire a certain look with the right beauty treatments. From hair stylists to nail technicians, estheticians, manicurists, barbers, makeup artists, and fashion stylists, it’s all about helping people look and feel their confident best.
As a cosmetologist in Virginia, the service you offer is priceless, yet there are a number of risks involved. Your job involves giving “hands-on” beauty treatments to clients to help improve their physical appearance and self esteem. In order to minimize any risks to you and your practice, you need a good cosmetology insurance policy.
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Virginia Cosmetology Licensing Requirements
In order to be licensed as a professional cosmetologist in the state of Virginia, individuals must complete at least 1500 hours of training in an accredited program. Credit is given to individuals who have worked in the industry for a minimum of 6 months, and reciprocity may be granted to those who have completed the same training as required by Virginia. Any individual who is currently licensed to practice as a cosmetologist in any jurisdiction of the U.S may be issued with a cosmetology license without an examination upon proper application to the Board.
In Virginia, it is not mandatory for a cosmetologist to have liability insurance, but buying coverage is always recommended, as it offers huge benefits at a small cost.
Importance of Cosmetology Insurance
As a cosmetology professional in Virginia, you focus on providing beauty services or you may offer additional luxuries, such as massage and tanning. Your clients trust your training, skills, and judgment. If any of your clients feels you made a mistake (even if you’re not responsible), it is possible they could file a lawsuit against you. That’s why it is important to carry insurance.
Whether you’re an independent contractor who works from home, an employee of a beauty shop or spa, or you travel to customers’ homes, liability insurance is essential for all cosmetologists in Virginia. Remember: even if you are employed, you need individual professional liability coverage to protect you and your practice from the financial impact of a lawsuit. Your employer’s insurance policy does not cover you in certain circumstances, such as when you’re working from home, from a client’s home, or anywhere else outside his/her premises.
What Insurances Does A Cosmetologist Need?
There are three basic types of insurance that you need in order to be fully covered:
Professional liability insurance:
Products liability insurance:
General (public) liability insurance:
Usually, these insurances come at a package and can be purchased as a discount rate. When deciding on which cosmetology insurance plan to purchase, you should inquire as to the extent of coverage to determine exactly what the policy does and doesn’t cover.