Is Your Business Ready for Autumn and Winter? Five Things Worth Checking
As the days get shorter and the weather becomes less predictable, autumn is a sensible time for business owners to look at how well their premises and operations are prepared for the months ahead.
Strong winds, heavy rain, freezing temperatures and unexpected disruptions can all create problems for businesses. While we can't control the weather, there are practical steps we can take to reduce some of the risks.
Here are five things worth checking before winter arrives.
1. Look after your business premises
A little maintenance now could help prevent bigger problems later.
Check that gutters and drains are clear, roofs are in good condition and outdoor equipment is secured against high winds.
It's also worth inspecting areas where water could enter the building during heavy rain.
Where work involves roofs, electrical systems or other hazards, use appropriately qualified professionals.
2. Don't overlook frozen pipes
Frozen and burst pipes can cause significant damage to buildings, equipment and stock.
Make sure exposed pipework is properly insulated, heating systems are maintained and key members of staff know where the main water stop valve is located.
If your premises will be left empty for extended periods, check your insurance policy for any heating, drainage or inspection requirements.
3. Review your stock and equipment values
Has your business invested in new machinery, computers or equipment during the year?
Perhaps you hold more stock than usual in the run-up to Christmas.
It's worth checking that the sums insured under your policy still reflect the value of the property and items you need to protect.
Being underinsured can have serious financial consequences if you need to make a claim.
4. Think about business interruption
If storm damage, flooding or another insured event forced your business to close temporarily, how would you manage financially?
Business interruption insurance can help protect against certain financial losses arising from events specified in the policy.
However, cover differs between policies, including the circumstances covered, financial limits and the length of time for which losses may be insured.
Understanding these details before an incident occurs is important.
5. Check whether your insurance still reflects your business
Businesses rarely stand still.
You may have taken on new employees, changed premises, expanded your services or invested in additional equipment.
If your circumstances have changed, your insurance requirements may have changed too.
Speak to LBH Insurance
At LBH Insurance, we've been helping businesses with their insurance since 1949.
As independent insurance brokers, we understand the importance of finding cover that reflects the individual needs of each business.
If you'd like to review your commercial insurance before winter, our team would be pleased to help.
Call us on 01702 347889 for a no-obligation, competitive quote—and peace of mind that your cover reflects both your risk and your reputation or email enquiries@lbhinsurance.co.uk.
