Most reputable tattoo shops are insured. The problem is, they’re usually insured against premises liability. This means that they have insurance coverage if you fall and hit your head on their floor, but not if you’re unhappy with their work. In the past, the only insurer who would cover the latter was Lloyd’s of London, and their rates were apparently very high.
This has changed recently, with the availability of a comprehensive insurance package available from one agent based on the West Coast. Many shops do have some form of insurance (this may be a requirement in their rental lease). Just keep in mind that the insurance does not necessarily cover quality.
