By John Healy of Healy Insurances

As the COVID restrictions are eased and workers return to offices what kind of insurance cover do offices need?

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A broad outline of covers would include:

Material damage cover for buildings: fixtures and fittings, stock, computers and equipment, and other assets that your business owns. Covers will include fire, flood, escape of water, theft, and storm amongst other perils. Cover extensions are available such as fire brigade charges, signage and equipment in transit.

Money cover: Loss of money cover is usually standard up to €5,000 for cash and cheques. The amount of cash covered can be increased depending on safe and security details. Personal assault cover can be included when carrying cash to the bank.

Employers, Public and Products Liability: All office and surgery policies include liability cover. Employer’s Liability is covered up to €13 million and can be rated on employee numbers and/or wages. Worldwide cover can be arranged for employees working temporarily overseas.

Public liability: covers your legal liability in the event that you are negligent and required to pay compensation for bodily injuries or damage to third party property. Projected turnover will determine the rate charged. Products liability provides cover if a third party is injured by a product that you have sold.

Business interruption: covers consequential loss of gross profits following an insured event such as a fire. It is important to review your gross profits sum insured on an annual basis. Some office policies are written on a gross annual fees basis rather than gross profit so it is vital to get the correct advice.

Other covers available can include computer breakdown, cyber insurance, employer's liability extension for a locum medical practitioner, personal accident, commercial legal protection, Revenue Commissioners investigations and many more. Many businesses will require professional indemnity in addition to an office policy.

A robust risk management structure can achieve more attractive rates and should include annual health and safety statement reviews, fire safety procedures, CCTV usage, and risk assessments.

Your policy should be tailored to your individual needs, so it pays to get expert advice from professionals who take the time to understand your business.