Is Damage to My Business Covered for Loss Resulting From a Riot?

The recent riots in most major cities has prompted us to provide some much needed information regarding commercial insurance and how it interacts with riots and unrest.

Generally speaking, damage to your building and other property due to a riot is a covered peril.  This would include fire, theft, and vandalism.  If you were forced to close your business by civil authority but had no building damage, you may be able to collect for lost revenue, depending on how your policy is written.  Remember, each policy is unique, so call our office for a review.

Property damage caused by rioting, civil commotion, and vandalism are covered under most standard commercial insurance policies.

Glass is usually part of covered property and built into base coverage, as long as it is part of a building or structure (i.e., store windows and plate glass on office fronts).  However, there may be a separate glass deductible.  In some cases, you may need to have a special glass endorsement for coverage to apply.

Businesses that are forced to shut down operations or limit hours due to rioting, vandalism, or civil commotion, and have coverage for the loss of income under business income insurance (also known as business interruption) should be covered.

What If the Fire Department Refuses to Put out the Fire?

Insurance companies generally will not deny a claim because the fire department pulled back for safety reasons.  If civil authorities limit or restrict access to a burning building, your insurance will not be jeopardized.

Final Thought

Each policy is unique and all losses are subject to your actual policy terms and conditions. Give our office a call to review your coverage. We are here to help you manage your risk.

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice. Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions. The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.

Insurance for Green Businesses

Business Insurance

Businesses across the country are seeing the advantages of having a green-friendly business.  Having environmentally friendly buildings and manufacturing processes can help sustain your business and build a positive reputation in the community.

Reasons to Consider a Green Business

• Increases your business’s public image
• Cost savings on insurance
• Tax credits
• Healthier workplace
• Consumer demand
• Can reduce waste and decrease costs

Most standard commercial insurance policies will offer to repair or replace damaged equipment with like kind and quality.  If your business wants to replace broken equipment with environmentally friendly material, your policy may have to be modified.

There are endorsements that can be added to your commercial property policy that addresses this issue.  According to the Insurance Information Institute, a green endorsement on your commercial property insurance will cover the higher cost of environmentally certified materials and equipment, even if your original property and equipment were not green certified.  It can also cover costs for green design and engineering, recycling, certification fees and other costs.

If your business has solar energy equipment or other green features, we recommend a complete insurance review. Roussel Insurance & Financial Services is a recognized leader in the insurance industry. We offer highly competitive insurance rates for both business owners and individual services. With 32 years of experience, we continue to offer our clients exceptional service.

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice.  Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions.  The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.

Have You Considered These Insurance Coverages?

Every business needs business insurance.  But business insurance policies are all different. That is why it is always better to use an independent agent who knows and understand your business and industry. The insurance needs for a restaurant are much different than the insurance needs of a manufacturer, and the coverage should reflect that.

If you own or operate a business, you may want to consider these coverages as part of your business insurance package. Our keys to coverage will assume some of the obvious coverage such as property and liability.  We also want to identify some business insurance coverage you may not have considered.

• Sprinkler leakage insurance–If your sprinkler system leaks and causes a loss to equipment or documents, do you have coverage?
• Business income insurance–After a covered loss, you may have a period of recovery time when you are closed. Without business income insurance your business may run out of funds.
• Umbrella Insurance–An umbrella policy provides extra insurance protection over your commercial general and auto liability policies. It is not uncommon for a business to be sued for over $1,000,000.
• Cyber liability–Cyber breaches are the fastest growing causes for loss for most businesses. Every business needs the protection provided by cyber insurance.
• Employee dishonesty–This policy protects employers from workplace theft and fraud.

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice. Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions. The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.

Common Mistakes Made When Purchasing Insurance

There are a number of common mistakes some individuals and businesses make when it comes to purchasing insurance. Insurance is the product you buy in case the unexpected happens. Unfortunately, by the time you need it, it’s too late to make sure you have the right type and amount of insurance coverage. Make sure you don’t make the following mistakes while buying business insurance or personal insurance.

Having two agents is better because they keep each other competitive

Having two agents duplicates effort and can create coverage gaps. For example, there are certain coverage’s that can be included under a liability policy and auto policy. One agent is better able to manage your entire insurance program.

The lower the premium the better

Premiums are determined by a combination of exposures and coverage. If you get a lower premium you may be missing needed coverage. For example, does the lower premium include replacement cost coverage on buildings and equipment?

The internet is a great place to get good insurance deals

Low-cost internet insurance usually allows you to select the coverage and limits you want. But in most cases, you end up with a limited and inadequate program. You find this out after you have an uninsured claim.

Not having the right value for your personal property

Most people undervalue their personal belongings. We recommend you complete a home inventory to make sure you have the correct value on all your property. Remember, the insurance covers what it costs to replace the item, not what you paid for it.

Believing the TV commercial said it was covered

All claims are subject to your individual policy terms and conditions. That is why an independent agent is important. We can provide information about what is covered and what is not.

As an independent agent, we have relationships with many A-rated national and regional insurance companies; we provide a comprehensive array of insurance products for a variety of personal and commercial clients.

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice. Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions. The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.

Is Your Business Prepared For A Loss?

I

A Business Insurance Update

Your business insurance can respond to many kinds of risks and losses.  Protecting your business from loss can mean the difference between having a great year, and having to close your doors.  According to the Insurance Information Institute, 30% of businesses that have a fire never re-open.  Therefore, it pays to have the right business insurance and to manage your tops risks.  However, do you know the most common risks faced by most businesses? 

Business Risks

Cyber breach – Your small business has a greater chance of having a data breach than it does of having a fire.  Make sure you have a cyber liability insurance policy.  Don’t save passwords on your computer, use the latest security software, train your employees on cyber security, and never use an open network.

Customer trip and fall – Make sure you keep your business entry clean and clear of clutter.

Flood – Your business insurance excludes flood damage.  If you are close to water, make sure you consider flood insurance.

Fire – Every business is subject to fire. Install automatic alarms to ensure proper notification, disconnect equipment when not in use, and never overload sockets with plugs.

Theft – Develop a system for end of day closure procedures. Keep a light on at night.  Burglars are less inclined to break in if they think someone is there.

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice. Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions. The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.

Common Mistakes Made When Purchasing Business Insurance

Business Insurance 101

We work with hundreds of businesses and help them manage their commercial insurance programs. Our team recommends coverage and risk options as part of our regular services. Over the years, we have seen some businesses make preventable mistakes when considering their insurance coverage.  We thought it would be good to share these with you.

Business Insurance Mistakes

Mistake: Assuming you do not need an agent.

Your agent can provide valuable services including educating you on what coverage you need and may not need.  Your agent can search the market for the best possible combination of coverage, price and service.

Mistake: Thinking that your policy covers all losses.

Your business insurance policy is intended to cover unexpected losses and accidents subject to the policy terms.  There are limitations and exclusions in every policy.

Mistake: Assuming that the lowest price is the best option.

It may be that the lowest priced insurance excludes needed coverage.  Your agent can help you determine the best coverage option for you.

Mistake: Not including cyber liability, employment liability, and professional liability in your business insurance program.

In today’s litigious climate, all businesses need to be protected with this coverage.

At Roussel Insurance we strive for trust and reliability with our clients. Through our 32 years in the insurance business we have learned to achieve immediate and sustainable cost savings for businesses and individuals. We can help find you the right insurance options, so that no matter what your budget is we can minimize you’re spending and easily meet your needs. To learn more about us and what we offer, make sure you browse through our personal and business services. Lastly, do not miss our blog page! All our blogs are informative, so we can help make insurance more understandable.

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice. Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions. The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.

The Keys To A Business Owner’s Insurance Policy

Every business needs business insurance.  But business insurance policies are all different. That is why it is always better to use an independent agent who knows and understand your business and industry. The insurance needs for a restaurant are much different than the insurance needs of a manufacturer, and the coverage should reflect that.

If you own or operate a business, you may want to consider these coverages as part of your business insurance package. Our keys to coverage will assume some of the obvious coverage such as property and liability.  We also want to identify some business insurance coverage you may not have considered.

• Business income insurance–After a covered loss, you may have a period of recovery time when you are closed. Without business income insurance your business may run out of funds.
• Umbrella Insurance–An umbrella policy provides extra insurance protection over your commercial general and auto liability policies. It is not uncommon for a business to be sued for over $1,000,000.
• Cyber liability–Cyber breaches are the fastest growing causes for loss for most businesses. Every business needs the protection provided by cyber insurance.
• Employee dishonesty–This policy protects employers from workplace theft and fraud.

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice. Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions. The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.

How To Reduce Workers’ Compensation Costs Today

Workers’ compensation insurance is state-mandated insurance that provides lost income, medical benefits, disability benefits, and rehabilitative services for workers injured on the job or while performing work-related duties. When an employee gets hurt on the job or has a work-related illness, only workers’ compensation will cover them. Health insurance benefits will not provide coverage for on the job injuries.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance premiums are computed as a direct result of your claims and payroll. The most effective method of reducing or managing Workers’ Compensation claims is to have effective safety program and a “Return to Work Program”.  Here are a few examples of what your safety rules might include:

1. Drug and alcohol rules.
2. Require safety equipment to be worn at all times.
3. Keep work areas clean.
4. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry around machinery.
5. Where required, you must wear protective equipment such as goggles, safety glasses, masks, gloves, hair nets, etc. appropriate to the task.
6. Safety equipment such as restraints, pull backs, and two-hand devices are designed for your protection. Be sure such equipment is adjusted for you.
7. Develop a system for reporting unsafe practices.
8. Have monthly safety meetings that review safety issues and related topics.
9. Create accident investigation procedures that focus on prevention and change.

Return To Work Program

A Return to Work (RTW) Program is a process used by an employer to help employees who have suffered work related injuries or illnesses return to their vocational status. A RTW should have the following components:

• A modification of work schedule and/or job duties. These need to be approved by the treating physician.
• Modifications will vary depending on type of injury, employee’s condition and skills.
• A plan that allows the employee to gradually return to pre-injury tasks and functions.

Work is therapeutic, and return-to-work programs are effective. The sooner employees reconnect with work associates and perform job responsibilities, the healthier their outlook, and the more favorable your workers’ compensation experience. All in all, a Return to Work Program can be a win-win solution for your employees and company.

Of course, there is more to an effective safety program, than what we have outlined here. Look for more information at a future time.

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice. Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions. The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.

The Liabilities Of A Fiduciary

The Liabilities Of A Fiduciary

If you are an owner, director or officer of a private or public company you have a fiduciary liability exposure. You may be responsible for the selection of retirement or benefit providers or plans and these decisions can create personal liability for you.

What is a fiduciary?

Under ERISA, fiduciaries can be held personally liable for losses to a benefit plan incurred as a result of their alleged errors, omissions, or breach of their fiduciary duties.

Who are fiduciaries?

Fiduciaries can be plan trustees, investment committee members, even owners of companies who contract with third party providers.

Here are examples of the most frequent kinds of claims

1. Denial or change of benefits
2. Incorrect benefit calculation
3. Improper advice or counsel
4. Misleading representation
5. Failure to properly fund the plan
6. Lack of investment diversity
7. Conflict of interest
8. Selection of advisors

How to limit your liability

• Have annual plan review
• Communicate with employees regularly
• Use professional consulting firms and review their insurance
• Have the plan audited by outside accountant

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice. Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions. The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.

Why Update Your Business Insurance?

Let’s face it, your business changes almost every day.  You add new employees, equipment and vehicles, and you change and update in every way needed to remain competitive. To ensure your business is protected with the right business insurance, you need to structure your program to respond when needed.

These changes can impact your business risks, and you will need to adjust your business insurance accordingly:

1. New employees can create additional workers’ compensation and benefits risks.
2. The purchase of new vehicles adds auto liability exposure.
3. Part time employees may increase employment, benefits and workers’ compensation risks.
4. Have you relocated your business? Your location can affect your property insurance premiums.
5. Have revenues changed? Your business liability insurance is based off of revenues, so any changes can impact your premiums.
6. Do you offer any new goods or services? If so, we will want to review your policy to make sure your exposure is covered.
7. If you have changed your company’s legal status or added new partners, your insurance needs will be different.

To ensure that you enjoy protection no matter how your business grows or shifts positions, be sure to check with your insurance agent if you make any changes.

This information is intended for the client, individual or entity to which it is addressed. These articles contain concepts and opinions, and are not intended to represent the consensus of the insurance or risk community, nor to provide professional legal or tax advice. Please seek professional legal or tax counsel before making any decisions. The information provided does not change or modify any insurance policy, only the actual terms of the in-force policies will govern claim settlements.