Will Commercial Insurance Cover Damage From Employees?

Disgruntled employees can pose significant risks to a business. Fired employees may return after hours to vandalize the building, and employee theft is more common than many realize. In such situations, commercial insurance in Lincoln, NE may provide the protection you need.

Employment Status and Coverage

Whether a person is considered an employee at the time of the damage is a crucial factor in determining coverage. Some insurance policies specifically exclude damage or theft caused by employees. However, if a person was recently terminated, they are no longer considered an employee and are not covered by the company’s policies for any vandalism or property damage.

Type of Coverage

The type of commercial insurance you have also plays a significant role. Many business owners are not required to obtain policies like property insurance. Basic liability insurance typically covers costs only if the company is sued. However, property insurance can include coverage for vandalism, including crimes committed by employees. Crime insurance often provides broader coverage than standard policies.

Type of Damage

Insurance brokers also consider the type of damage when determining coverage. For example, many policies cover accidental fires, meaning if an employee accidentally starts one, it might be covered. However, if an employee intentionally starts a fire, it would be classified as arson and vandalism. The type of crime and the extent of the damage are key factors in whether an event will be covered.

Policy Specifics

Some insurance policies specifically exclude crimes committed by employees, such as theft or property damage. Others may require you to file a police report and press charges against the employee. Additionally, you may need to provide evidence that the employee committed the crime. These requirements vary by company, so it’s essential to speak with an agent at Brokers Insurance Agency to understand the fine print of your policy.

At Brokers Insurance Agency, we understand the complexities of determining whether an event is covered. Our experienced agents will listen to your situation and provide guidance. Contact us today to learn more. We proudly serve the Lincoln, NE area.

Signing a Subcontractor? Why Your Contract Could Trigger a Claim You Didn’t Anticipate

Many business owners are trying to manage their expenses by outsourcing some work to contractors. And that’s usually a fantastic idea. Hiring subcontractors can help your business in Lincoln, NE, take on more work and operate more efficiently. But it can also expose you to risks you didn’t anticipate.

Business owners often assume subcontractors carry their own insurance and that’s it. You’re protected. Unfortunately, that’s usually not the case. Responsibilities are often shifted back to you, the business owner, either via exclusions, gaps, or sometimes even missing insurance coverage. That’s where Brokers Insurance Agency comes in and helps you analyze your commercial coverage before you sign anything.

How Subcontractor Agreements Can Create Hidden Exposures

Hidden in many contracts are "indemnity" or "hold harmless" clauses, which basically make you financially responsible even if your subcontractor caused the damage or injury on the job. The result? Without the right commercial insurance coverage, one incident can lead to costly claims and legal disputes.

Before work begins:

  • Require proof of insurance from your subcontractors, including liability and workers’ compensation. No proof, no work!
  • Verify that your business is listed as an additional insured party.
  • Check your own coverage limits with Brokers Insurance Agency to ensure your limits are adequate for your exposure.

The Right Coverage Keeps Your Projects and Reputation Secure

Running a successful business is all about managing and understanding risks. At Brokers Insurance Agency, we help Lincoln, NE contractors and small businesses structure their commercial insurance policies in a way that anticipates subcontractor risks. This often includes liability extensions, contractual liability protections, or umbrella coverage to expand your safety net.

Build With Confidence

Every project is a blessing if it is managed right. It brings opportunity, but it also leaves you with unexpected risks. Before you sign your next subcontractor agreement, make sure your commercial insurance adequately protects you and your business.

Contact Brokers Insurance Agency to review your coverage and keep your business building strong.