Last Updated: February 16, 2024, 11:38 am by TRUiC Team


Business Hazard Insurance

Business hazard insurance, also known as commercial property coverage, is a type of business insurance that provides financial protection after damage or destruction to your business property.

Oftentimes small businesses struggle to cover losses after disasters and it’s generally recommended that they carry hazard insurance.

We'll help you find the right small business hazard insurance.

Recommended: Next Insurance is dedicated to matching small businesses with the right policies at the best price.

Man with a tool belt climbing a ladder to the roof.

Business Hazard Insurance Cost and Coverage

The cost of business hazard insurance can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including:

  • Type and amount of coverage that you require
  • Location and size of your business
  • The industry that you operate in
  • Level of risk associated with your business operations

Deductible

Another factor that can impact the cost of business hazard insurance is the deductible. The deductible is the amount that you are responsible for paying out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in.

Generally, the higher your deductible, the lower your insurance premium will be.

However, it is important to choose a deductible that you can afford to pay in the event of a covered loss.

Replacement vs. Actual Cash Value

Replacement cost coverage will pay out the full cost of replacing the item without taking depreciation into account. While replacement cost coverage may result in a higher premium, it can provide greater protection for your business assets.

Actual cash value takes into account depreciation and may pay out less than the full cost of replacing a damaged or destroyed item. 

Coverage

When you create a quote, your insurer will analyze specific risks that your business faces and the level of protection your business requires.

Be sure to review any specific exclusions or limitations that may apply to your policy.

How to Start an LLC Tip Icon

Recommended: Read our Cheapest Business Companies of 2024 review to find the best coverage and lowest rate.

What Is Business Hazard Insurance?

Business hazard insurance policies are designed to protect your business property, including the building, whether rented or owned. 

This protection covers a wide range of events, including natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes, as well as manmade disasters such as fire, theft, vandalism, and accidents.

Some policies will cover the actual cash value of your property, which is the value of the property at the time of the loss. Others will cover the replacement cost of your property, which is the cost to replace the property with new items of similar quality.

Do I Need Business Hazard Insurance?

Natural disasters can be catastrophic and put a small business out of business, fast and forever.

If your business operates in a physical location and owns or rents property or equipment, such as a retail store, office, or warehouse, then we recommend that you carry hazard insurance.

However, if your business is entirely online, or you operate from your home and do not have any physical property or equipment, you may not need this type of insurance.

Your Business Today

Using a trusted insurance provider saves time and money and offers the most accurate quotes.

FAQs

Business hazard insurance can cover a range of events, including fire, theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and accidents. It can provide coverage for damage or destruction of property, as well as liability claims arising from injuries or property damage caused by the business.

The cost of business hazard insurance can vary depending on factors such as the type of business, the level of coverage needed, the location of the business, and the insurance provider. It is important to work with an insurance agent to get a quote and to compare coverage options and costs.

While general liability insurance can provide coverage for some types of hazards, it may not be sufficient to cover all types of events that could result in financial losses for a business. It is important to work with an insurance agent to determine the appropriate coverage for your business needs.

Yes, it is possible to get business hazard insurance for a home-based business. However, it is important to note that homeowners insurance policies typically do not provide coverage for business-related losses, so a separate business insurance policy may be necessary.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) may require business owners to carry hazard insurance as a condition of receiving an SBA loan. In addition, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) that can be used to cover the cost of hazard insurance.

Business insurance actual cash value coverage typically pays out the current value of a damaged or destroyed item, taking into account factors such as depreciation. Replacement value, on the other hand, pays out the cost of replacing the item with a new one. 

When comparing insurance quotes for hazard insurance, it is important to consider factors such as the level of coverage, the cost of the policy, the deductible amount, and any exclusions or limitations in the policy coverage. It is also important to work with a reputable insurance company and to read the policy carefully.