Even if you are running a small business, you may need to invest in adequate US property insurance coverage. Purchasing enough United States property insurance will protect your personal assets if the unthinkable happens. Some business owners believe that forming a corporation or an LLC protects personal assets from business liabilities. However, a business without an adequate amount of property insurance in the US is facing a real risk if a disaster should strike. You goal may be to find property insurance rates in the US that provide the coverage you need and fit your budget.
Property insurance companies in the United States cover damage or loss to your business property. However, it's important to know what types of damage and loss are actually covered by your policy. Most US property insurance providers offer basic, broad and special coverage. Basic offers the lowest coverage with broad providing the most coverage. It's important to understand exactly what is covered under each of these insurance policies to ensure protection for your business. This guide will help you:
1. Make sure your business complies with your lease or United States home insurance policy if you work from home.
2. Decide whether you need liability insurance in addition to a US property insurance policy.
3. Make sure you understand the coverage limits on various United States property insurance policy types.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Make sure your property insurance policy complies with your building lease or homeowner's policy
If you are renting, your lease may require you to have a certain amount or type of property insurance coverage. You should read over your lease carefully before you commit to purchasing a policy. Some property insurance companies in the US may require you to increase your homeowner's policy coverage if you are a home-based business owner. Check to make sure your homeowner's policy is not voided or limited if you are running a business from home. If this is the case, you need to upgrade your coverage as soon as possible so that it includes business use and business related claims.
I recommend: Find a property insurance broker from a company like
Diversified Insurance Brokers experienced with business property insurance policies to help you find the best property insurance in the United States for your business needs.
Decide whether adding liability insurance is in your best interest
Liability insurance is coverage that protects you from client injuries on your property. Someone injured on your property can sue you, but a liability policy can cover the damage you could be ordered to pay. If you have clients that visit your property regularly, you may want to consider this extra coverage.
I recommend: Consult with a reputable company like
Wells Fargo about adding liability coverage. Property insurance rates in the US that include liability may be more expensive, but in the end it could be worth it.
Find a policy from a reputable US property insurance provider
Property insurance might not be a thing you want to cut corners on. If you live in a state known for earthquakes, fires or hurricanes, you definitely need adequate coverage from a well-established insurance provider.
I recommend: Progressive offers comprehensive fire protection.
Liberty Mutual offers policies that will cover flood damage from hurricanes.
Farmers Insurance offers earthquake insurance as an add-on to property insurance.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Before you chose a policy for property insurance in the United States, make sure it includes guaranteed replacement cost insurance to replace any property that becomes damaged. Most policies will replace damaged property at the current cash value.
The official source of US Property Insurance is the US Property Insurance page at Business.com