Launching a cottage baking business in West Virginia can feel like the perfect blend of creativity and entrepreneurship. Thanks to the state’s cottage food laws, getting started is more accessible than ever before. But while the legal path is straightforward, the question of insurance deserves attention, because home-based doesn’t always mean risk-free, as Curtis Miller Insurance, serving Parkersburg, WV, explains.

What West Virginia Allows

West Virginia law permits the sale of certain non-perishable baked goods made in a home kitchen without requiring a commercial kitchen license. This means you can sell items like cookies, breads, and cakes directly to customers or at local events. However, these laws don’t include automatic protection if something goes wrong.

The Role of Insurance

Even small, home-based food businesses can face serious liability. If a customer claims that one of your products made them ill or caused an allergic reaction, you could be held legally and financially responsible. The state doesn’t require commercial insurance, but it offers valuable protection that can save your business from unexpected claims.

Types of Coverage to Consider

General liability insurance is a smart place to start. It can cover injuries or damages that occur because of your product or during delivery. Product liability insurance offers added protection in case your baked goods cause harm, even unintentionally. Property coverage may also be worth considering if you keep baking tools or inventory at home.

Operating under cottage food laws gives you a head start, but protecting your investment with the right insurance ensures you build on solid ground. Speak with an insurance professional who understands local business needs. With the right coverage through Curtis Miller Insurance, serving Parkersburg, WV, you can focus on what you do best—baking.

Winter storms are a part of life during this season. Whether you like it or not, they will come our way and you should do everything you can to prepare for them. There are some easy tricks to preparing for a winter storm in Parkersburg, WV. Use these tips the next time one is heading your way.

Get Food and Water

This may seem like it is an obvious thing to do but you would be surprised by how many people forget to do this. Make sure there is plenty of food and water for each person in the home for a few days. Also, when buying food, be sure to choose some options that do not have to be cooked just in case you lose power.

Get Salt

With winter storms come ice. The best way to naturally get rid of ice after a storm is by putting salt, sand, or cat litter on the pavement. You need to have this before the storm hits or you will be stranded without a way to get out until the ice melts on its own. Get enough for your driveway and any walkways around your home. You can put some out before the storm as well as after to help speed up the process.

Even with properly preparing for a winter storm, there is nothing better than having a good home insurance policy. You never know what can happen during a storm and you should protect your investment. Whether you already have one and want to be sure you are properly covered or you are looking to purchase a policy for the first time, we can help you with the process. Be sure to contact Curtis Miller Insurance serving Parkersburg, WV, for some quotes so you can be better protected.