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Understanding Your Builders Risk Insurance End Date

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Aug 27, 2022

Knowing when your builders risk insurance ends can be a key to avoiding surprise costs. Get the best rates on all types of contractor insurance, including in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Allentown, Reading, Lancaster, Harrisburg and throughout Pennsylvania.There are many types of Contractors’ Insurance designed to protect your business from unforeseen circumstances. However, one type of insurance that is somewhat unique to the construction industry is Builders Risk Insurance. 

What is Builders Risk Insurance?

Builders’ Risk Insurance - also called Course of Construction Insurance or Inland Marine coverage – is a temporary insurance policy that helps protect a renovation or new building while under construction. It typically covers a building, structure, materials, tools, and equipment on a job site, in transit, or stored elsewhere during construction or renovation. 

The following perils are typically covered under a Builders’ Risk Insurance policy:

  • Theft
  • Vandalism
  • Fire
  • Explosion
  • Vehicle accident 
  • Weather events, such as hail or lightning

Some Builders’ Risk policies also include the following perils:

  • Costs incurred by delayed construction, such as lost rental income or loan interest
  • Removal and disposal of pollutants
  • Damage to temporary structures
  • Changes required to meet environmental standards 

The following perils are typically NOT covered under a Builders’ Risk policy:

  • Wind
  • Earthquake
  • Flood
  • Employee theft
  • Normal wear and tear
  • Mechanical breakdowns
  • Terrorism
  • Faulty work or materials
  • Contractual penalties 

When Does Builders Risk Insurance Coverage End?

Most insurance policies have an insurance policy period that includes an effective and expiration date. Simply stated, those dates indicate when coverage from that policy begins and ends. However, the end date of a Builders’ Risk Insurance policy can be a little more complicated. 

Because the value of a structure being built or renovated increases over time, Builders’ Risk insurance factors this changing value into its pricing. Due to this unique situation, there are times when an expiration date may change. 

  1. The owner of the property takes over

If an owner (such as the original property owner, bank, or purchaser) takes over the project (regardless of how complete the project is), the Builders’ Risk Insurance policy you purchased becomes invalid. 

  1. The Project Is Abandoned

If the contractor walks away from the site with no intention of completing the project, the Builders’ Risk Insurance policy becomes invalid. 

  1. The Property is Being Used for Intended Purpose

If all or part of the property is being used for its intended purpose during construction, the Builders’ Risk Insurance policy becomes invalid. 

  1. The Project has been Completed for 30 Days

Once an occupancy permit or other completion confirmation has been issued, the Builders’ Risk Insurance policy becomes invalid. 

Once the Builders’ Risk Insurance policy has expired, other types of insurance are available to protect the property, which are often less expensive. For example, property insurance can be purchased when the property is being used for its intended purpose or when the project has been completed for thirty days, which is typically less expensive than Builders’ Risk Insurance. On the other hand, if a property has been abandoned, there is more risk for damage such as decay, vandalism, break-ins, and arson. Therefore, insurance to cover the property will be higher than Builders’ Risk Insurance.

Need Help With Builders’ Risk Insurance?

If you have questions about Builders’ Risk Insurance or any type of Contractors Insurance, be sure to speak with one of the experienced agents at American Insuring Group.

Not only do we specialize in Contractors Insurance, but as independent agents, we also compare multiple insurance companies to ensure you pay the lowest premium for the coverage you need.

Call today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Construction Insurance, Construction Risk Insurance, Contractor Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance, Builders Risk Insurance

7 Common Mistakes Restaurants Make When Filing an Insurance Claim

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Aug 20, 2022

Properly filing a restaurant insurance claim can help you save on restaurant insurance in Philadelphia, Reading, Lancaster, Pittsburgh, Erie, Harrisburg, Allentown, PA and elsewhere.Savvy restaurant owners purchase Restaurant Insurance to help protect their business, but insurance policies and claims can be complicated. The experienced agents at American Insuring Group can help you navigate your insurance options, policies, and claims.

However, it’s helpful to understand and avoid the most common errors restaurant owners make when filing an insurance claim:

Not Understanding Your Policy

Your insurance policy states explicitly what “perils” it does and does not cover. It can be extremely frustrating to discover something you thought was covered isn’t when you go to make a claim (not to mention the time wasted making a claim while also trying to recover from the incident).

Therefore, you need to read and understand what your policy does and does not cover, so you can either fill the gap or have a plan in place if an uncovered event occurs. Ask your insurance agent to clarify anything you’re unsure of. 

You should also know your policy’s deductible – the amount you must pay before insurance kicks in on a claim. If you decide to increase your deductible to lower your premiums, make sure you have enough available cash to cover that deductible if you need to make a claim. 

Finally, it’s crucial to understand if your policy values damaged property according to an actual cash value (factors in depreciation and normal wear and tear) or the replacement value (does not factor in depreciation and normal wear and tear). If the damaged property is valued according to actual cash value, you need to be prepared to pay the difference out of pocket. 

Not Filing a Claim Promptly

If someone is injured in your restaurant or your oven is damaged by fire, call your insurance company immediately. Waiting to file the claim can make the process more difficult or even lead to having the claim denied. A good rule of thumb is to file a claim within the first 48 hours of an incident, but the sooner, the better.

Not Working with Insurer

Don’t think of your insurance adjuster as the enemy. Be professional, polite, and cooperative, and promptly provide whatever documentation they request. Failure to cooperate may provide grounds to deny a claim. However, don’t be afraid to ask questions or even appeal an estimate if you have reasonable proof that the lost property is undervalued. 

Not Documenting Damage and Claim

You will need proof of damage to receive a payout, so immediately record the time and date of the incident and take photos and/or videos of the damage. Also, document your communication with your insurer – keep a record of mailed correspondence and emails along with the time, date, and substance of verbal communications. 

Disposing of Damaged Items

You may think photos will be enough when filing a claim, but you should also keep the damaged property as physical evidence until the claim is closed. 

Admitting Fault

Never admit fault if someone is injured in your restaurant. There are too many frivolous lawsuits, and you may not honestly know the cause of an incident until it is investigated. In addition, accepting responsibility will make it difficult for your insurer to defend you if there is a lawsuit. Plus, some policies don’t allow you to assume fault without the insurer’s consent. With these policies, admitting fault can lead to a breach of contract, denial of a claim, or termination of coverage.

 Paying Claims Out of Pocket

You may be tempted to pay the medical costs of someone injured in your restaurant. However, your insurance policy will not reimburse you for payments made out of pocket and could even result in a denied claim. 

Want to Save on Restaurant Insurance Costs?

Work with one of the experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group. We can answer any of your questions, and – as independent agents – we compare pricing and coverage with multiple insurance companies to make sure that you pay the lowest premium for your insurance coverage!

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Restaurant Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance, Restaurant Insurance Costs

The Key to Lowering Workers’ Comp Costs is Good Communication

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Aug 13, 2022

Good communication can reduce accidents and help you save on Worker's Compensation insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Reading, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Allentown, Lebanon and throughout PA. Contact us today to learn more.Good communication is key to lowering Workers’ Compensation (WC) Insurance costs. Unfortunately, many business owners are under the false impression that communicating with injured employees can cause WC claims and increase the cost of those claims. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Lack of communication and miscommunication in the claims process can cost your business more. For example, injured employees typically hire a lawyer – not to get more money but because of inadequate communication with their employees. For example, one study found that “46% [of injured employees] said they hired attorneys because they felt the claim had been denied when, in fact, it had not yet been accepted into the process.” And the truth is that WC cases that involve attorneys often cost more. 

An injured employee may be worried about their injury, recovery, and how they will continue to support their family. In addition, they may be in pain or facing unfamiliar medical treatments or medication. Plus, WC claims can be complicated. This can result in a scared, stressed, confused, and possibly angry employee. If the injured employee understands that you are concerned about their well-being and are willing to help them through the WC claims process, you become an ally (rather than an adversary). The only way to accomplish that is through good communication before, during, and after a workplace injury. 

Workers’ Compensation Communication

Good communication should be part of the onboarding process of new employees:

  • Foster a Positive Culture of Safety – From the start, you need to create a culture of safety that emphasizes safety as a core value of your business.
  • Foster Ongoing Communication – Employees need to know that it is safe for them to report safety concerns and injuries without fear of retaliation.
  • Provide WC Information – Employers should provide all employees with information about WC, including how to report an injury, what type of injuries are covered, who to contact if they have questions, a list of designated medical providers, etc.
  • Training – All employees should receive ongoing safety training to minimize the risk of injury and to know what to do if an injury occurs. Supervisors should receive training regarding Workers’ Compensation in addition to safety training. CFO advises, “Supervisors are often in the best position to shape workers’ initial expectations about what should happen, post-injury.”

Good communication is also crucial when an injury occurs:

  • Seek Appropriate Medical Attention – When an injury occurs, your first priority should be to ensure that the injured employee receives appropriate medical attention.
  • Thorough Investigation – Every time an injury occurs, a thorough investigation of the incident should occur. The investigation should include interviews with the injured employee and any co-workers who witnessed the incident.
  • Documentation – Every incident should be well-documented while everything is still fresh in everyone’s mind. 

Ongoing communication during the claims process is critical for a timely resolution:

  • Designate one employee to be the primary contact point for injured employees. That employee should be patient, kind, understanding, and familiar with the WC claims process.
  • Provide written and verbal information about the claims process, what the injured employee should expect, etc.
  • Regular communication (at least every other week) throughout the recovery process allows employers to monitor the recovery process, update the injured employee on the progress of the claim, and answer any questions or concerns the injured employee may have.
  • Communicate Genuine Empathy and Trust. Regular informal phone and in-person conversations and get-well cards show the employee that you are concerned about their well-being.
  • Discuss Return-to-Work Assignments. Communicate to injured employees that you are concerned about their well-being and that you are looking forward to them returning to work when it is medically safe to do so. Discuss the possibility of light-duty or transitional duty opportunities with medical providers and the injured employee. 

The Key to Lowering Workers’ Compensation Costs

Good communication should begin with your insurance provider. The independent agents at American Insuring Group listen carefully to better understand your needs, so we can ensure that you get the right workers' compensation insurance coverage at a great price!

Get started today by calling (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, PA Workers Compensation Insurance, workers comp costs, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance

Plan For The Worst With Business Interruption Insurance

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Mar 12, 2022

Business Interruption Insurance in Philadelphia, Lancaster, Pittsburgh, Reading and elsewhereRestaurant Insurance can include different types of insurance policies, such as Property, Liability, and Workers' Compensation Insurance. Then there are the specialty coverages, such as Business Interruption Insurance. Each type of insurance is designed to protect your business from a different risk, whether your business is in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or points in between.

  • Property Insurance typically covers your building, equipment, stock and inventory, and even outdoor signs if they are damaged under a covered event.

  • Liability Insurance typically covers your restaurant for instances of slipping and falling, food sickness and choking, excessive alcohol consumption, delivery accidents, and more.

  • Workers' Compensation Insurance pays medical bills and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job.

The end goal of insurance is to help your business recover from an unexpected disaster, such as a fire or storm. And yet, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), about 25% of businesses don't reopen following a disaster. That is probably due – in part – to the fact that many business owners don't plan for contingencies to keep their business going if a disaster forces them to close temporarily. That's where Business Interruption Insurance can help.

What is Business Interruption Insurance?

Business Interruption Insurance (Aka Business Income coverage) can help with operating expenses incurred when a business is temporarily closed due to a covered event, such as the following:

  • Employee payroll
  • Mortgage, rent, and lease payments
  • Lost income
  • Taxes
  • Loan payments 

Business Interruption Insurance usually does not cover the following:

  • Broken items
  • Undocumented income 
  • Utilities

Typically covered events include theft, fire, wind, lightning, or falling objects. However, events such as nuclear accidents, war, and pandemics are not usually covered under a Business Interruption Insurance policy. Bottom line: if there is no physical damage, Business Interruption Insurance will NOT likely kick in. Also, damage caused by floods or earthquakes is typically covered by a separate policy.

Usually, Business Interruption Insurance is not a stand-alone policy but part of a Commercial or Business Owner Policy (BOP). It is generally triggered when a claim is made to a Commercial Property Insurance policy when property damage occurs.

Options and Endorsements to Business Interruption Insurance

You can design a policy that fits your specific needs with additional options and endorsements. Here are some options:

  • Contingent Business Interruption – if property owned by someone else - such as a supplier, buyer, provider, or driver – is damaged and causes a reduction or termination in your earnings

  • Extra Expense Insurance - will cover anything beyond the regular day-to-day operating expenses necessary to keep a business solvent after a covered event, such as renting temporary space during restoration, paying overtime, hiring new employees, and leasing equipment

  • Utility Services Endorsement - if the disruption of essential utility services – such as electric, gas, or water – disrupt operations of your restaurant

  • Civil Authority – If a civil authority – such as state, local, or federal government -prohibits access to your restaurant due to physical damage to an adjacent or nearby property owned by someone else

How Much Wil Business Interruption Insurance Cost?

Business Interruption Insurance's coverage and the cost are unique to every business. The best way to determine the right coverage is to use your restaurant's gross earnings and projections to estimate future profits. In addition to the amount of coverage, the cost depends on factors such as the number of employees, restaurant location, and prior claims experience.

To get the best rate on Business Interruption – or any type of Restaurant Insurance – work with an insurance agent who understands the unique challenges restaurant owners face, such as the agents at American Insuring Group.

As Restaurant Insurance specialists, not only can we ensure you purchase the right insurance to protect your business, but as independent agents, we also compare the cost of that coverage with multiple insurance companies to ensure you pay the lowest premiums.

Call The Insurance Experts Today!

Prepare for the unexpected by by acquiring the right business insurance protection. Call the experts at American Insuring Group today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Restaurant Insurance, Business Insurance, Business Interruption Insurance

Minimize Risk of Sprains and Strains and Lower Insurance Costs

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Jan 22, 2022

Buy Affordable Contractor Insurance in Philadelphia, Reading, Allentown, Lancaster, Harrisburg, York, Pittsburgh and in all of PA. Contact us.Sprains and strains – known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) - are costing construction companies millions of dollars every year in higher Contractor Insurance costs, lost workdays, and sometimes the permanent loss of good workers.

MSDs include back, shoulder, knee, and other musculoskeletal problems. They are one of the most common injuries in construction, accounting for one-third of all lost workday injuries and half of all workers' compensation claims, according to Laborers' Health & Safety Fund of North America.

In fact, approximately 30% of construction workers report lower back pain. For those workers over 55, that rate increases to 60%. Arthritis and joint pain are also common issues with construction workers – especially as they age. In addition to age, obesity, smoking, and poor physical fitness can increase the risk of an MSD-related injury. Working with the pain of an MSD-related injury reduces productivity and can lead to a disabling injury that permanently ends a construction worker's career.

The high number of MSD-related injuries probably comes as no surprise since construction involves a lot of heavy lifting and carrying of heavy objects. The three main risk factors for MSD-related injuries are excessive force, repetitive motion, and ongoing awkward work position. While you can't eliminate all MSD-related injuries, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk.


Here are 20 tips to minimize the risk of MSD-related Injuries:

  1. Plan jobs to require minimal manual handling of heavy materials by making cranes, forklifts, etc. available to workers

  2. Use hand trucks, wheelbarrows, etc. when possible.

  3. Provide mechanical aids – such as pneumatic lifts and conveyors where possible.

  4. Make materials easily accessible – between knee and should height.

  5. Store materials close to where they will be used.

  6. Seek help to handle heavier loads.

  7. Use handles to carry loads when possible.

  8. Ensure that walkways are level and clear.

  9. Wear appropriate PPE, such as knee or shoulder pads.

  10. Use ergonomically-designed tools.

  11. Provide stretching and warm-up exercises before work begins each day.

  12. Whenever possible, encourage workers to sit or stand erect and not stretch or lean forward to perform tasks.

  13. Encourage healthy lifestyles.

  14. Provide a footrest, floor mat, and/or adjustable chairs where a worker has to stand for a long time to allow them to change positions frequently.

  15. Develop a safety training program.

  16. Train workers to identify and avoid injury hazards.

  17. Train workers on proper lifting techniques, such as standing close to the load, bending knees, and assuring a good grip.

  18. Train workers on things to avoid, such as simultaneously lifting and twisting, rushing, reaching overhead, throwing heavy materials.

  19. Train workers on proper material handling, such as appropriate warm-ups, appropriate PPE, and personal risk factors.

  20. Note about back belts: according to OSHA, "Back belts are not recognized by OSHA as effective engineering controls to prevent back injury. While they may be accepted by individual workers because they feel as if they provide additional support, the effectiveness of back belts in the prevention of low back injuries has not been proven in the work environment."

Yes, we realize we listed training several times. That's because proper training is crucial to preventing any workplace injuries, including MSD-related injuries.

Lower Your Contractor Insurance Costs

Sometimes despite your best efforts, employees are injured on the job. Workers' Compensation helps protect employers and ensures that injured employees are well taken care of.

The experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group will find the right coverage at the lowest cost. Give us a call today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online and discover how we can help you save on all of your insurance needs!

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, Construction Insurance, Contractor Insurance, Business Insurance, Contractor Safety Management

3 Tips to Keep Drivers Safe and Save on Truck Insurance Costs

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Feb 13, 2021

3 Tips to Keep Drivers Safe and Save on Truck Insurance Costs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and in PA and beyond.As you know, good drivers aren’t easy to come by, so keeping them as safe as possible on the road should be a top priority. Keeping your drivers safe has the added benefit of lowering Truck Insurance costs and other costs associated with accidents. 

According to CNBC, people who drive for a living – driver/sales workers and truck drivers – are in the sixth most dangerous job in the U.S., with 96 fatal injuries and 78,520 non-fatal injuries in 2018. If you can lower the number of your drivers involved in accidents, you can reduce employee turnover, increase employee morale, and decrease costs, such as insurance premiums, claim payouts, lost workdays, etc. 

Here are three tips to help keep your drivers safe, lower the number of accidents, and improve your company’s bottom line. 

Encourage Defensive Driving

Dictionary.com defines defensive driving as “the practice of using driving strategies that minimize risk and help avoid accidents, as by predicting hazards on the road.” Some of those strategies include the following:

  • Looking Ahead – It takes longer for a truck carrying a heavy load to stop than it does a car, so truck drivers need to look ahead to see and anticipate potential hazards, such as stopped traffic. 
  • Keeping Eyes Moving – Drivers who are on the road a long time often become complacent to their surroundings. Truck drivers should always be scanning their environment – looking at what is ahead and around them and using side and rearview mirrors to see what is behind them.
  • Maintaining a Buffer Zone – It’s impossible to predict what other drivers will do, and trucks have very limited maneuverability, so truck drivers should always establish and maintain a buffer zone around their vehicle. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, “If you are driving below 40 mph, you should leave at least one second for every 10 feet of vehicle length. For a typical tractor-trailer, this results in 4 seconds between you and the leading vehicle. For speeds over 40 mph, you should leave one additional second.”
  • Having an Escape Route – Maintaining a buffer zone should minimize the need to swerve; however, sometimes stopping in time just isn’t possible. Drivers should always consider escape routes available to them if they need them.
  • Keeping Cool – Driving can be stressful, and there are plenty of inconsiderate drivers on the road. Becoming angry or aggressive while driving doesn’t help. Aggressive driving can include passing where prohibited, following improperly, erratic lane changing, etc. Between 2003 and 2007, aggressive driving played a role in 56 percent of fatal crashes. Truck drivers need to keep their cool at all times and slow down to allow aggressive drivers to get well ahead of them. 

Properly Maintain Vehicles

A poorly maintained tractor-trailer is not only a danger to your drivers; it’s a danger to everyone around the vehicle – other drivers, pedestrians, bikers, etc. A blown tire or a faulty brake can be deadly. Plus, a well-maintained vehicle will last longer. 

Therefore, it is in your best interest to maintain your fleet with a regular maintenance schedule. That schedule should include a plan to prevent brake wear and failure, testing to avoid engine problems, frequent oil changes, replacing parts subject to wear and tear, inflating tires to the right levels (which will also help you save on fuel bills), and more. Here are 14 maintenance tips for trucks. 

Another component of vehicle maintenance is the pre-and post-trip inspections. Federal law requires drivers to submit a Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) for each power unit they operate. These inspections include checking the brakes, turn signals, lights, fuel system, and much more. 

Pre- and post-trip inspections help save time, money, and lives. A pre-trip inspection helps ensure drivers are operating a safe vehicle before they hit the road, and post-trip inspections allow time to fix issues before they need to go back on the road.  

Consider the Use of Technology

Consider using technology to help keep your drivers and your fleet safe. Do your research to determine what will work best for your drivers and your fleet. Some technology to consider:

  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC) – According to the NHTSA, ESCs are designed to “reduce untripped rollovers and mitigate severe understeer or oversteer conditions that lead to loss of control by using automatic computer-controlled braking and reducing engine torque output.” The NHTSA states, “We believe that ESC systems could prevent 40 to 56 percent of untripped rollover crashes and 14 percent of loss-of-control crashes. By requiring that ESC systems be installed on truck tractors and large buses, this proposal would prevent 1,807 to 2,329 crashes, 649 to 858 injuries, and 49 to 60 fatalities at less than $3 million per equivalent life saved while generating positive net benefits.”
  • Eyelid Monitoring – This type of system uses a cabin-mounted camera to monitor drivers’ eyelids and alert the driver if their eyelids droop.
  • Automatic Brakes – This type of system uses radars to apply automatic brakes if an imminent crash is detected.
  • Continuous Remote Data Feed – Computers can warn drivers if disturbing driving habits, such as swerving, are detected. Safety managers can also use videos.

Doing what you can to keep your drivers safe just makes good business sense. 

Ready to Save on Truck Insurance?

Another thing that makes good business sense is having the right insurance coverage at the lowest price. Because American Insuring Group specializes in Truck Insurance, we can help you determine the right insurance coverage for your business, whether you're in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, or elsewhere in PA and the tri-state area. Because we’re independent agents, we research multiple carriers to ensure that you pay the lowest premium for that great coverage.

So, give us a call today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online.

Tags: truck insurance, Business Insurance, Trucking Insurance, Cargo Trucking Insurance

Could an Installation Floater Help You Save on Contractors Insurance?

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Jan 23, 2021

Save on Contractor's Insurance in Philadelphia, Lancaster, Reading, Pittsburgh, State College, and throughout Pennsylvania - Call us today.Contractors face many perils in the course of a job, and Contractors Insurance is crucial to protecting their equipment, materials, supplies, etc., against those perils. Commercial Property Insurance is one type of coverage most contractors purchase, but it is typically limited to losses that occur on the job site. 

Commercial Property Insurance usually provides little or no coverage for materials, equipment, machinery, or supplies in transit or storage. Builders Risk Policies – such as Installation Floater coverage – can fill that gap. 

What is Installation Floater Insurance?

The International Risk Management Institute defines Installation Floater coverage as “inland marine coverage on property (usually equipment) being installed by a contractor. Essentially a specialized type of builders risk coverage that is often written on the same form used to provide builders risk coverage.” 

It is designed to cover property that is being installed or awaiting installation. Every floater is different and is based on the needs of the contractor. Typically, an Installation Floater covers materials, equipment, machinery, supplies, and personal property while it is…

  • Stored off-site
  • In transit
  • Being staged
  • Being installed 

Installation Floaters typically cover new construction and remodeling projects and can be written as a single project policy or a blanket policy. Anyone with an insurable interest in a project can purchase this type of insurance. 

Installation Floaters typically cover most risks – fire, theft, traffic accidents, vandalism, etc. – but may exclude perils, such as earthquakes, floods, sewer backups, employee theft, etc. 

What Makes Installation Floaters Different?

Installation Floaters offer tailored protection that can cost less than typical Builders Risk Insurance, making it ideal for some contractors. 

For example, sometimes, standard Builders Risk Insurance does not extend to subcontractors; therefore, Installation Floaters can be beneficial to contractors or subcontractors with a limited scope of work on a project. 

Installation Floaters may also be beneficial to contractors that perform work that is typically excluded from Builders Risk Insurance. The installation of high-value equipment or materials, such as HVAC units, solar panels, windows, doors, roofing, and electrical systems is often excluded from Builders Risk Insurance. If it is included, the contractor is still responsible for deductibles. 

Like most Builders Risk Insurance policies, Installation Floaters typically exclude certain things:

  • Trees, shrubs, and plants
  • Property while it is in the air or on the water
  • Losses during testing
  • Some types of temporary structures, such as scaffolding or temporary fencing 

Having Installation Floater Insurance can provide an added layer of protection that fills any gaps in your Commercial Property and/or Builders Risk Insurance. Choosing which coverage – installation floater or builders’ risk – is right for you can be challenging. 

What is Best for Your Needs?

When determining which type of policy or policies are best for your needs, you need to consider the type of project and the coverage you need. Installation Floater Insurance is usually less expensive and offers narrower coverage, which can make it a good choice for smaller projects. 

The best way to determine the right insurance coverage for your business is to work with an experienced agent. American Insuring Group specializes in Contractors Insurance, and as independent agents, we check with multiple insurance companies to ensure you get the lowest cost. Give us a call at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online.

Tags: Construction Insurance, Contractor Insurance, Business Insurance, commercial property insurance

8 Restaurant Safety Tips to Lower Insurance Costs

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Dec 05, 2020

Lower Your Restaurant Insurance Costs and Workers’ Comp and Liability costs in Philadelphia, Allentown, Reading, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, Erie and throughout Pennsylvania.The best way to lower Restaurant Insurance Costs – particularly Workers’ Comp and Commercial Liability – is to create a safer restaurant for everyone –employees, customers, vendors, etc.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there were 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported in the U.S. in 2018. The total cost of those injuries was $170.8 billion, which included wage and productivity losses, medical expenses, administrative expenses, etc. However, it did not include the lower employee morale and productivity workplace injuries cause.

Here are eight restaurant safety tips to help lower costs.

1. Have your kitchen exhaust hood system degreased by a professional every six months.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were 7,410 structure fires in eating and drinking establishments reported to U.S. fire departments every year between 2010 and 2014. Cooking equipment was the cause of 61% of those fires. Grease build-up can cause fires that often spread into duct-work, exhaust systems, vents, and fans.

2. Have your fire suppression system checked by a professional every six months.

A properly working fire suppression system can extinguish flames in just a few seconds; thereby, preventing extensive and costly damage.

3. Ensure employees wear proper PPE.

This includes appropriate gloves (dishwashing, cut-resistant, and freezer), oven mitts, aprons, and anti-slip shoes.

4. Invest in anti-fatigue mats.

Anti-fatigue mats provide a cushion between feet and floors and relieve the strain caused by standing for long periods and help prevent slip-related injuries. In addition to minimizing strain and injuries, anti-fatigue mats can help boost employee morale and improve productivity.

5. Provide ongoing safety training for all employees.

OSHA states, “Regular training helps employees learn how to avoid hazards, keeps lines of communication open between you and your employees about hazards you may not be aware of, and lets employees know that you are serious about promoting sound safety policies and work practices in your restaurant.”

Training should include identifying hazards; preventing burns, cuts, slips and falls, ergonomic hazards, and injuries from robberies and assaults: and dealing with emergencies and injuries.

6. Have your employees take alcohol awareness training classes.

If your restaurant serves alcohol, you should have all servers take alcohol awareness training classes. In Pennsylvania, your restaurant can be held liable for damage caused by a customer served or sold alcohol while visibly intoxicated. The right training can teach servers about responsible alcohol consumption and how to protect customers, employers, and themselves.

7. Train your employees on safe food handling.

Every year, foodborne disease causes 76 million illnesses and 5,000 deaths in the U.S., and the restaurant industry is responsible for a significant number of those illnesses and deaths.

An NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) report found the cost of a single foodborne illness outbreak ranged from

  • $3,968 to $1.9 million for a fast-food restaurant,
  • $6,330 to $2.1 million for a fast-casual restaurant,
  • $8,030 to $2.2 million for a casual-dining restaurant, and
  • $8,273 to $2.6 million for a fine-dining restaurant

Those outbreaks ranged from a 5-person outbreak with no lost revenue, lawsuits, legal fees, or fines, to a 250-person outbreak, with significant lost revenue, lawsuits, legal fees, and fines.

The NCBI’s conclusion is, “The cost of a single foodborne illness outbreak to a restaurant can be substantial and outweigh the typical costs of prevention and control measures.”

8. Give American Insuring Group a Call Today!

As independent agents and specialists in restaurant insurance, the agents at the American Insuring Group will compare prices and coverage among multiple reputable insurance companies to ensure that you get the right insurance at the best price!

Give us a call today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online.

Tags: Restaurant Insurance, workers comp costs, Business Insurance, Restaurant Liability Insurance, Restaurant Safety

Commercial Property Insurance vs. Commercial Liability Insurance

Posted by David Ross on Sun, Feb 23, 2020

Commercial  Property Insurance vs Commercial Liability Insurance - do you know the difference?Do you think that Commercial Property Insurance has you covered? Let’s go back to June 2019 for a moment.

Do you remember the fire and series of explosions at Philadelphia Energy Solutions? It released 5,239 pounds of deadly chemicals into the air and took more than 24 hours to extinguish. CNBC reported that it sent shock waves for miles and rained debris on nearby neighborhoods, and that “the blast was so powerful that a 38,000-pound barrel was launched 2,100 feet across the Schuylkill River, where it landed on the opposite bank.”

It was determined that the likely cause of the fire was a faulty pipe. Surprisingly, there were no serious injuries or fatalities. Five workers reported minor injuries, and experts do not believe there will be any health impact from the release of chemicals.

This is a prime example of why businesses need both Commercial Property Insurance and Business Liability Insurance. One covers your property, and one covers lawsuits.

In the Philadelphia Energy Solution incident, Commercial Property Insurance would help Philadelphia Energy repair or replace its refining complex. If the explosion was determined to be Philadelphia Energy’s fault, Business Liability Insurance would help cover any damage the explosion caused nearby neighbors or if the deadly chemicals were to have any negative effects on anyone.

According to the Insurance Journal, four out of ten businesses are likely to experience a property or general liability claim in the next ten years, and the average cost of a customer slip and fall claim is $20,000. Reputational harm claims cost an average of $50,000, and if a lawsuit is involved can average more than $75,000 for legal fees, settlements, and judgments. About 35% of all general liability claims result in a lawsuit.

What is Commercial Property Insurance?

Commercial Property Insurance helps repair or replace your physical assets, such as the building, furniture, computers, inventory, etc. if they are damaged by fire, hail, lightning, windstorms, vandalism, and explosions.  Typically, earthquakes and floods are not covered unless they are added to your policy.

The cost of Commercial Property Insurance is determined by the value of your assets, your location, the construction of your building, your industry, and how close the nearest fire hydrant and fire station are.

What is Business Liability Insurance?

There are many types of Business (Commercial) Liability Insurance that cover different liability risks. Business Liability Insurance protects your business from liability claims against your business by a third party, such as customers, suppliers, vendors, and employees.

Types of Liability Insurance

General Liability Insurance helps cover third-party lawsuits, like customers, suppliers, and vendors, but not your employees. It typically helps cover third-party personal injuries, property damage, and advertising injury. For example, if a customer were to be injured after slipping and falling at your business, they could file a lawsuit against you. General Liability Insurance would help cover the costs of that lawsuit.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance is required for most employers in Pennsylvania. It helps pay for medical costs and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job. It also reduces the risk of an employer being sued by an injured employee.

Professional Liability Insurance (A.k.a. Errors and Omissions Insurance) helps protect businesses against negligence and other claims made against them.

Product Liability Insurance helps cover lawsuits filed due to damages caused by a business’s products.

An experienced insurance agent can help you determine the types of business liability insurance that is right for your business.

Here's How to Save on Commercial Property Insurance and Business Liability Insurance

Here are two ways to save on the cost of Commercial Property and Business Liability Insurance:

  • Bundle the two policies into a Business Owners Policy.
  • Work with an independent agent, like the agents at American Insuring Company, who can compare the cost of your coverage with several different companies.

Want to learn more about lowering your Commercial Insurance Costs? Give one of our independent agents a call today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online.

Tags: Professional Liability Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance, commercial property insurance, Product Liability Insurance, Commercial General Liability Insurance

Comply with OSHA and Save on Workers Comp Insurance

Posted by David Ross on Fri, Dec 21, 2018
Following OSHA's rules and guidelines can help you save on workers comp insurance in Philadelphia, Reading, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Allentown, Pittsburgh, PA and far beyondThe Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) has a lot of rules and regulations for business owners, and sometimes, those rules and regulations seem like nothing but a nuisance. However, not complying with them, can result in hefty fines.

The good news is that OSHA’s intention is to protect employees from workplace injuries; therefore, following OSHA’s rules can help create a safer work environment for your employees and, in turn, lower your workers compensation insurance premiums.

We’re here to help you better understand OSHA, its rules and regulations, and to help your business comply with them.

About OSHA


OSHA, established in 1971, is a government agency that is part of the US Department of Labor. Its primary purpose is “to assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.” OSHA’s rules and regulations cover most private sector employers and their workers along with some public sector workers.

Since OSHA was established, workplace injuries, illnesses, and deaths have decreased significantly. “Although accurate statistics were not kept at the time, it is estimated that in 1970 around 14,000 workers were killed on the job. That number fell to approximately 4,340 in 2009,” according to OSHA. “At the same time, U.S. employment has almost doubled and now includes over 130 million workers at more than 7.2 million worksites. Since the passage of the OSH Act, the rate of reported serious workplace injuries and illnesses has declined from 11 per 100 workers in 1972 to 3.6 per 100 workers in 2009.”

Fewer workplace injuries and illnesses not only lower insurance premiums, but they also create healthier workplaces and happier employees.

 

OSHA Employer Responsibilities

As an employer, it is your responsibility to provide a safe workplace that is free from OSHA-recognized hazards. Here are three ways to do that:

  • Use color codes, posters, labels or signs to warn employees of potential hazards.
  • Establish and update operating procedures and safety training and make sure your employees understand them.
  • Ensure that employees have safe tools and equipment that is properly maintained.

It is also your responsibility to follow OSHA requirements, which include the following:

  • Post the OSHA poster that informs employees of their rights and responsibilities in a prominent location.
  • Report all work-related injuries to the nearest OSHA office within eight hours.
  • Keep records of all work-related injuries and illnesses and ensure that employees and their representatives can easily obtain employee medical records.
  • Post and correct cited OSHA violations.

OSHA also encourages all employers to adopt an Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Click here to learn more about your OSHA responsibilities.

 

Employee Complaints

There are two main types of complaints employees can file with OSHA against your company as his or her employer:

Safety and health complaint
If an employee believes their work environment is unsafe or detrimental to their health, they can file a confidential report with OSHA requesting an inspection of their workplace.

Protection from retaliation complaint
If an employee who submits a complaint to OSHA feels they have been retaliated against, they can file this type of complaint with OSHA.

Your best defense against both of these complaints is to do your best to create a safe work environment, follow OSHA’s rules and regulations, and keep an open line of communication with your employees.


OSHA Inspections

OSHA can inspect your worksite for any number of reasons including a complaint from an employee; after a severe injury or illness; a referral of a hazard from another federal, state, or local agency, or individual; or if you’re in a high-hazard industry or have experienced a high rate of injuries.

Typically, employers are not notified of an inspection in advance; however, understanding the process can take some of the stress out of the experience.

Preparation
Before conducting an inspection, OSHA compliance officers research the inspection history of the worksite.

Opening Conference
The compliance officer will explain why OSHA selected the workplace for inspection and describe the scope of the inspection, walkaround procedures, employee representation and employee interviews. Both the employer and employee can have a representative accompany the officer during the inspection.

Walkaround
The compliance officer and the representatives will then walk through the portions of the workplace covered by the inspection, inspecting for OSHA violations and hazards that could lead to employee injury or illness.

Closing Conference
After the walkaround, the compliance officer holds a closing conference with the employer and the employee representatives to discuss their findings.


Start Saving on Workers Compensation Insurance Today


Understanding OSHA’s rules and regulations can help keep your employees safer, reduce the chance of an inspection and potential fines, and reduce workers comp insurance costs.

Your Trusted Choice Independent workers compensation insurance agents in PennsylvaniaTo learn how your business can save on workers compensation and all other commercial insurance costs, call our experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online.

Our independence allows us to compare coverage from competing insurance carriers, so you can be confident of receiving the best deal on the right protection for your business in Philadelphia, Reading, Allentown and far beyond!

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, workers comp costs, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance