As the owner of a landscaping business, you know how important it is to protect your equipment, vehicles, and headquarters from damage. While landscaping companies typically ensure that they are protected against theft and weather damage, many overlook the importance of securing enough fire insurance to cover the full extent of their losses. Attorney Bill Voss explores must-have insurance options to protect lawn care professionals and landscapers from fire damage, as well as how to minimize the risks of a blaze on your property.
Fire Insurance Considerations for Landscaping and Lawn Care Companies
The first thing owners should do is examine their fire policies to see which fires are covered and which are excluded. Texas businesses would be wise to ensure they are covered for property damage caused by wildfires as well as lightning strikes and neighboring structure fires. A comprehensive policy may be necessary to cover fires caused by any reason—including vandalism, arson, or explosions caused by fertilizer and other chemicals.
Landscaping companies should also carefully consider the fire protection offered by their:
- Property insurance. Your commercial property damage policy should cover not only damage to the structure and grounds, but also any storage sheds, outbuildings, inventory, tools, computers, electronics, office furniture, and supplies.
- Commercial auto insurance. If you rely on vans, trucks, excavators, or other service vehicles, you will need commercial auto insurance to repair or replace damaged company vehicles.
- Seasonal business insurance. Fires can happen at any time, potentially robbing lawn care professionals of a full year’s income. Even if your business only operates during the warm season, you will need coverage that protects you year-round.
- Inland marine insurance. Landscapers may leave their equipment on a job site overnight, placing their vehicles and tools at risk of a fire on someone else’s property. Inland marine insurance covers any tools or equipment while it is in transit or left at another location for business purposes.
- Business income losses. This insurance is vital for business recovery after a fire, as it replaces the income the business is not able to receive while the doors are closed for repairs.
If you are having trouble getting an insurer to cover the costs of a fire, we can examine your policy and get you the full amount you are owed. Simply fill out the form on this page today to contact the Voss Law Firm or order a free copy of our book, Commercial Property Owners Must Read This BEFORE Filing an Insurance Claim.
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