Commercial building insurance is insurance that is designed for a business. That means, it is insurance that makes sure there is coverage for commercial buildings, in case of a loss. This loss might result from things like vandalism, fire and natural disasters. When setting up your commercial building insurance, it is important to know exactly what you are getting. Some plans cover only property structure. Others include coverage for furnishings and equipment. Some even cover personal injury or death that occurs on the premises of your business.
Commercial building insurance is divided into two basic types of insurance. These are named-peril policies, and all-risk policies. Each is exactly what the name implies.
A named-peril policy will protect your property in the event there are unforeseen calamities of a specific nature. These events will be clearly designated in the policy document. A named-peril policy could conceivably cover damage that results from fire and explosions. Alternatively, it might include flood damage and earthquakes. However, because this policy only covers explicitly listed risks, you need to be sure you have included the exact kinds of risks you want covered for your specific business.
In writing up a named-peril policy, a list is generated of potential damage causes. These perils will then be listed, and there will be a clause stating any damage caused by something not specifically listed in your policy, will not be covered.
As the name implies, a named-peril coverage plan is the opposite of an all-risks coverage plan. With an all-risks coverage plan, you are covered for all potential sources of damage. There are, however, usually exceptions, but these are clearly stated in the policy. Floods and earthquakes are two things you often see excluded, but you can tack on coverage for these natural disasters if you need them. An all-risk coverage policy will protect a business owner in the event of an unexpected, and unplanned for disaster.
All-risk coverage plans are more expensive than the named-peril plans. However, the majority of businesses find a named-peril coverage policy is plenty. If they need more coverage, they simply add a rider, and most will include some kind of flood coverage. In the end, only the business owner can establish his or her insurance needs. It depends on things like the location of the business, and the equipment or supplies that need protection.
Because there are a variety of companies and packages available, business owners can always find the small business package that meets their specific needs. When determining what you want insured, and for how much, you should consider not only the business property, but also figure out the value involved. Then make a decision on what does and does not need to be covered. Keep in mind the buildings involved, as well as any equipment and machinery that needs insuring. Also, remember there are inventory, documents and business records to consider, as well as databases and vehicles which you might use in your business.
Leave a comment