Minimum recommended coverage:
Business Personal Property, Business Income with Extra Expense, Employee Dishonesty, Accounts Receivable, Computers, Valuable Papers and Records, General Liability, Employee Benefits Liability, Umbrella Liability, Hired and Nonownership Auto Liability, Workers Compensation
Other coverages to consider:
Building, Equipment Breakdown, Computer Fraud, Forgery, Money and Securities, Employment-related Practices Liability, Business Auto Liability and Physical Damage, Professional or Errors and Omissions Liability
Property exposures consist
for the most part of office operations, although there may be some incidental storage or an area for minor service work. Hazards are usually light, and both the property and theft exposures depend on the amount and type of computer and office automation equipment on hand. In older offices, light to moderate hazards come from the large amount of paper used. In newer offices there are often personal computers, photocopiers and similar equipment, and the primary hazards arise from the high concentration of electronic equipment. Fire sources include wiring, wear, and overheating of equipment.
Equipment breakdown exposures
are typically moderate. Climate control is important for many businesses, and breakdown of the heating or air-conditioning units or computers may cause serious loss.
Crime exposures include
employee dishonesty. Money and securities may be a concern if receipts are collected in the office. Hazards increase in the absence of background checks and monitoring procedures. Computer fraud may be a concern, not only directly to the insured, but also through identity theft of customers’ personal information.
Inland marine exposures
are generally limited to accounts receivable, computers and valuable papers and records. Equipment or laptop computers may be used off premises. Evaluation must include what is taken off premises or shipped and whether it is subject to theft or transportation losses.
Premises liability exposure
depends upon whether or not customers come onto the office’s premises or the employees of the operation visit or travel to the customer’s premises. If clients visit the premises, aisles must be free of debris and have flooring in good condition, no frayed or worn spots on carpet, and no cracks or holes in flooring. The number of exits must be sufficient and well-marked, with backup exit lighting in case of power failure.
Parking lots and sidewalks must be in good repair, with snow and ice removed, and generally level and free of exposure to slip and falls. Factors affecting the risks include exterior lighting, fencing, and any other security measures in place.
Professional liability exposure
will depend on the actual operation. However, any professional must have an appropriate license and proper certification to operate.
Workers compensation exposure
will depend on the actual work being performed. Concerns include eyestrain, neck strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and similar cumulative trauma injuries that can be addressed through ergonomically designed workstations.