When a fire, storm, or other unexpected event forces a business to shut down temporarily, the financial toll can be disastrous. This is where business interruption insurance comes in. This type of insurance is designed to protect your company’s income, help you pay your bills, and retain employees when the business is shuttered.
What Is Business Interruption Insurance?
Also known as business income insurance, this coverage provides financial assistance for lost revenue, ongoing expenses, and temporary relocation if your business is forced to close after a covered event, such as a fire or natural disaster. It applies to temporary disruption of operations during the business interruption period specified in the policy. Business interruption insurance can help cover payroll, loan payments, and taxes.
Why Should You Consider It?
Disasters rarely come with a warning. Fire, vandalism, or a natural disaster could disrupt operations and income for weeks or months. In such cases, many small businesses struggle to recover, and some may never reopen. Business interruption insurance can make it possible to keep your business going by helping you:
- Replace lost income
- Cover fixed expenses such as rent, utilities, and loan payments while operations are on hold
- Retain valuable employees by continuing to pay wages
- Fund temporary relocation while repairs are made
- Minimize disruption for your customers and keep your reputation intact
FAQs About Business Interruption Insurance
Here we provide answers to some commonly asked questions about business interruption insurance.
Is this coverage included in a standard commercial property insurance policy?
No, it is not. Property insurance covers physical damage but not lost income or additional expenses due to disaster-related downtime. Business interruption insurance is a separate policy or endorsement.
Is lost revenue from backouts covered?
That depends on the cause of the power outage. If it results from physical damage to your property, for example, from a storm, this coverage could apply. General power outages not tied to property damage are typically excluded.
How long does coverage last after a disaster?
Business income insurance coverage typically lasts from the date the covered peril began until the date the damaged property is repaired and returned to the same condition as before the disaster, up to the time limit specified in the policy.
Can a seasonal business benefit from this coverage?
Yes, as seasonal businesses are particularly vulnerable when disaster strikes during peak season, they can benefit from business interruption insurance. A policy can be tailored to reflect the unique cycle of a business.
Are business interruption insurance premiums tax-deductible?
Premiums are generally tax-deductible as ordinary business expenses. As always, confirm compliance with your tax professional.
What is the cost of business interruption insurance?
The cost of this coverage can depend on various factors, including the industry, location, revenue, number of employees, and risk level of your business. Policy limits also affect your premiums. Our agents at Hank Ellis Insurance Agency can help you find the coverage you need at the best available rates. Give us a call at (304) 472-8103.