Some businesses own their own offices, some rent the premises, whilst very many people operate their business from a home-based office. Wherever it is located, however, there are a number of common elements that make up a typical package for office insurance.

• Public liability insurance – this is a core element of most business insurance, yet is also one that can be easily overlooked by those working from home. Wherever your office is situated, you can be held liable for any loss or damage to property or any injuries sustained by customers, clients or members of the public visiting your office. The liability extends to any business activity in which you are involved outside of the office;
• Contents – computers, printers, and fax-machines are all found in most offices and represent a substantial investment on the part of the business. Unfortunately, there are also at risk of fires, flooding, theft and damage. Adequate insurance against such loss or damage is sensible, therefore, and an “all risks” policy will also the cover to more portable equipment, such as laptops;
• Employers’ liability – your office insurance package will typically need to include employers’ liability (of at least £5 million) to protect you against claims from staff for injuries or illnesses sustained as a result of their work for you. Accidents in the office are surprisingly commonplace and the cover is a legal requirement if you employ people. You could be fined up if you don’t have it;
• Business interruption – there might be a temptation to take the use of your office (whether at home or elsewhere) somewhat for granted. However, you have only to think of the costly disruption to your business if the office is subject to something like a fire or flood. Business interruption cover as part of your office insurance may protect you against the financial losses that result from such perils.

Tags | Office insurance