What is Employment Practices Liability/Dominos Pizza Franchisee Program?
Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) for Domino's franchisees covers claims made by employees for wrongful employment acts — for example, discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, or failure to promote. The program adapts standard EPLI wording to the franchise environment and is intended to protect both the business and its managers from employment-related liability exposures.
Who needs it
Typical buyers include franchise operators, multi-store owners, and managers who employ hourly and salaried staff. Small organizations with limited human-resources support often see the greatest benefit. Franchisees participating in chain programs, such as the Domino's Pizza Franchisee Program, may find tailored options that reflect chain-specific operations and vendor relationships.
What it typically covers
EPLI policies commonly pay defense costs, settlements, and judgments arising from covered employment claims. Coverage can be extended to cover legal defense for managers and owners, and may coordinate with commercial liability or property coverage in certain circumstances. Many franchise programs also consider related exposures such as commercial auto exposure when delivery drivers are involved, or equipment coverage where workplace tools contribute to disputes.
- Employment-related claims (harassment, discrimination, wrongful termination)
- Defense costs and settlements
- Third-party harassment claims (customers or vendors in some forms)
- Risk management resources and employment practices guidance
For franchise-specific wording and options, see program details like those in the Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) for Pizza Franchisees and related program materials.
Common exclusions or limitations
Policies commonly exclude intentional criminal acts, punitive damages in some jurisdictions, bodily injury covered by workers’ compensation, and claims arising from violations of certain statutes unless specifically endorsed. Underwriting factors and prior claims history will shape what is included or excluded.
Factors that influence cost
Premiums and terms are influenced by:
- Number of employees and payroll size
- Claims history and documented HR practices
- Industry risks and turnover rates typical of food service and delivery
- Whether the franchise participates in a group program such as an approved Domino's plan
Insurers also review underwriting factors like employee training, written policies, and incident documentation when setting price and limits.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Franchisors often require proof of coverage and minimum limits as part of franchise agreements. Certificates of insurance demonstrate compliance but check contract language to ensure the policy meets specific named-insured and endorsement requirements. Many franchisees reference program guidance such as the Employment Practices Insurance for Domino's Pizza Franchisees when assembling required documentation.
How to get a quote
Gather basic business information (employee count, payroll, prior claims) and any franchise program documents. Discuss your needs with an agent and consider how EPLI coordinates with commercial liability and property coverage. If you’d like an online starting point, you can talk to your agent.
Risk scenario example: a former employee alleges wrongful termination and files a claim — EPLI can help cover legal defense and potential settlements while risk management reviews HR policies to reduce future exposures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do franchise-specific EPLI programs differ from standard EPLI?
Yes. Franchise programs often include endorsements or coordinated language to address franchisor requirements, shared vendor relationships, and delivery-related risks.
Will EPLI cover harassment claims made by customers?
Some policies include third-party harassment coverage; confirm the policy language because not all EPLI forms automatically extend to customers or vendors.
Can I get coverage if my business has prior employment claims?
Possibly. Prior claims affect underwriting and pricing; full disclosure during application is important and may result in specific exclusions or higher premiums.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.