Commercial building insurance is insurance that is specifically designed for businesses. So, in essence, it is insurance that covers commercial buildings against any losses that result from things like theft, vandalism, fire and natural disasters. When looking at commercial building insurance, you have to be very aware of what kinds of coverage you are getting. Some types of commercial building insurance protect only the structure of the building. Other types will include protection for furnishings and business equipment. You might even see coverage that extends to personal injury, or death that occurs on the premises.
When checking into commercial building insurance, you will see that it is normally divided into two types of insurance coverage. There is the named-peril policy, and also an all-risk policy. In essence, the coverage is exactly what the name specifies.
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.
When a named peril policy is set up, the insurance company comes up with a list of all the possible unplanned events. You decide which perils you want insured, and they are specifically listed in the policy. A clause will be included which states that any cause of damage which is not specifically listed, is not covered under the policy.
A named-peril plan is the exact opposite of an all-risks plan. All-risk coverage plans protect against all probable sources of damage, except those designated in the policy as a specific exclusion. Floods and earthquakes are generally two such events that might be excluded. However, coverage for these natural disasters can be added into the policy if you wish. An all-risk coverage policy protects business property in the event of an unexpected or 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.
Susan Reynolds is the webmaster for a leading South African Insurance Provider who specialises in Commercial Insurance.
categories: Insurance,Finance,Money,Business Finance,Business Insurance,Business