We're
standing by now to assist you with the small business insurance
quotes you need to fulfill your small business insurance
needs. Feel free to use our service to compare small business insurance
pricing from multiple cariers.
Search results provided by EuroSeek.com:
Results from search: http://www.tsbic.com/
The Small Business Insurance Center
Welcome to
The Small Business Insurance Center
of
Supple-Merrill & Driscoll, Inc.
Insurance Agents & Brokers
License #0517777
The Small Business Insurance Center provides insurance for COMPUTER CONSULTING FIRMS , SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS , WEB PAGE DESIGNERS , INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS (ISPs) , BOY SCOUT COUNCILS, MEDICAL MALPRACTICE , OCEAN/AIR CARGO , EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES LIABILITY , MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIPS, and MOTORCYCLE REPAIR SHOPS.
We were created to address the insurance needs of employers of 1 to 100 employees by offering comparative quotes, the option to purchase directly over the Internet, and easy monthly payments.
We offer policies through companies such as CNA, Commercial
Union, CGU, Hartford, Kemper, American States, Fireman's Fund, Philadelphia Insurance Co., Safeco, Chubb, Travelers, and Zurich.
To receive your FREE QUOTE , please fully complete our quote information sheet.
We promise to respond to you within 48 hours.
QUOTE INFORMATION SHEET
BUSINESS LIFE INSURANCE QUOTE
WHO IS TSBIC?
FREQUENTLY ASKED INSURANCE QUESTIONS
CUSTOMER SERVICE
OTHER LINKS
FEEDBACK
Copyright © 1995-2000 Dana Justin Coates; All Rights Reserved
License #0529163
The specific coverages referred to on this site
are brokered through Supple-Merrill & Driscoll, Inc.
Insurance Agents & Brokers
License #0517777
PO Box 2408
Pasadena, CA 91102
Phone: 800-378-5554 - or - 626-795-9921
Fax: 626-844-2126
E-mail: TSBIC@tsbic.com
Website designed by CityCenter Co.
Results from search: http://www.smallbusinesscenter.com/
Small Business Loans, Credit Reports, Insurance
Small Business Loans, Credit Reports, Insurance
Small Business Center
Starting a small business ? Running a small business ? Growing your small business ? Our site meets all your small business needs so you can focus on the small business itself. America's Small Business Financial Center.
Small Business Services
We provide small business loans, small business insurance, small business finance, small business credit cards and small business payroll services. Address your financial management needs in one convenient place. SmallBusinessCenter.com is the leading Internet provider of small business financial services. Whether you want to apply for a loan, get quotes for insurance, buy office supplies, or read the latest small business news, SmallBusinessCenter.com is your convenient one-stop shop.
Finance
Get small business loans, lines of credit, equipment leases, mortgages,
accounts receivable financing, SBA loans, and business credit cards.
Save time and money by conducting your financial activities online.
Apply online to leading financial institutions for loans, credit cards, and payroll services.
Credit Reports
Credit Reports
Your small business customers are asking for credit terms. Should you offer credit terms? What is the risk? Get online credit reports about your small business customers. The CreditFYI credit report service tells you whether or not they have had recent bankruptcies, tax liens, judgments. It gives you a quantitative comparison of that company with other US companies that rely on trade credit.
Loans
Get small business loans. Save time and money by conducting your
financial activities online.
Apply online to leading financial institutions for loans,
credit cards, and payroll services.
Insurance
Get small business insurance. Compare real-time quotes from leading insurance carriers across the nation, in the areas of health, property & casualty, and life. Then apply online for coverage.
Small Business News
Get small business news. Read business headlines and articles from leading sources. Contact leading providers of business software and books, office products, legal information, and much more. Select the leading providers of your choice. SmallBusinessCenter.com works closely with more than 50 leading firms specializing in small business. Conduct transactions safely and securely.
Get small business credit reports online, apply for business loans, business loan or business line of credit , apply for business insurance , learn about small business finance and small business payroll services. Address your financial management needs in one convenient place. SmallBusinessCenter.com is the leading Internet provider of small business financial services. Whether you want to apply for a loan , get quotes for insurance , buy office supplies, or read the latest small business news , SmallBusinessCenter.com is your convenient one-stop shop.
Small Business Insurance
Small Business Loans
Small Business Services
Credit Reports
Small Business Startups
Small Business Center
Starting a small business ? Running a small business ? Growing your small business ? Our site meets all your small business needs so you can focus on the small business itself. We provide small business insurance , small business finance, small business loans , small business credit cards and small business payroll services. Entrepreneurs running a small business need credit cards, loans , financing, insurance and payroll services. Quickly solve your small business needs; focus your attention on running your small business . As a small business entrepreneur, you want rapid access to small business payroll services, small business finance, small business credit cards, small business insurance and small business loans . We provide the small business services that entrepreneurs need for small business. Let us help your small business acquire small business loans , small business insurance , small business credit cards, small business payroll services and small business finance services. Grow your small business into a large business.
© 1998 LiveCapital, Inc. This notice applies to all pages in this site.
Small Business
Small Business Services
Credit Reports
Small Business Loans
Loans
Small Business Insurance
Small Business Health Insurance
Health Insurance
Property Insurance
Property Insurance
Small Business Services
Small Business Books
Personnel
Government
International
Internet
Law and Legal
Small Business Links
Small Business Marketing
Small Business News
Office Products
Office Services
Retirement Plans
Small Business Software
Starting a Business
Taxes
Payroll Services
Payroll Services
Credit Reports
Credit Reports
Small Business Finance Guidelines & Advice
Business Financing Glossary
Cash Flow Calculator
Cash Flow Triage How to deal with cash crunches
Credit Lines: How much is enough? How to calculate what an adequate amount would be for a line of credit.
Do-It-Yourself Growth Capital How to keep costs under control so as to finance growth internally
Financing Options Detailed, tabular comparison of financing options
Financing Your Business Discussion of the different kinds of financing available
Give Yourself the Money Hunting Edge
How to Improve Your Business Credit
Leasing Equipment
Managing for Positive Cash Flow
Managing Debt
Monthly Payment Calculator
Personal Net Worth Calculator
SBA Overview An overview of the Small Business Administration's 7(a) Guaranty Program
Slow Boat to Payment
Small Bank, Big Bank or Bigger Bank?
Results from search: http://www.aigdirect.com/small_business/small_business_index.cfm
aigdirect: small business - Property, General Liability & Umbrella Insurance
function sendLink() {
popUp('/small_business/sb_email_window.cfm');
document.emailPageForm.submit();
return false;
}
function expireCookie() {
var exp = new Date();
document.cookie = "cookieName=sb_applicant; expires=" + exp.toGMTString(exp.getTime()-10000);
// alert(exp.toGMTString(exp.getTime()));
return true;
}
Results from search: http://www.entrepreneur.com/search/0,4741,,00.html
Entrepreneur's SmallBizSearch.com - The Smart Search Engine for Small Business owners and Entrepreneurs
Newsletters
Subscribe
Bookstore Win A Mercedes
Search
Entire site
SmallBizSearch
Message Boards
Yellowpages
Channels
.
Bizstartups
.
Home Office
.
Money & Finance
.
Sales & Marketing
.
Management
.
Technology
.
Netpreneur
.
Opportunities
The Magazine
. Current Issue
. Archives
. Subscribe
Tools & Services
SmallBizSearch
Ask The Experts
Message Boards
Listings
Multimedia Center
Special Offers Get free information on Small Business, Franchises, Finance and more!
Tech
Marketing
Insurance
Entrepreneurs
Starting Out
Sales
Franchises
MLM
E-Commerce
Smallbizsearch.com ®
Search Small Business:
Specialized Searches
Angel Investors
Business Opportunities
Businesses for Sale
Domain Names
Executive Education Programs
Find Upcoming Trade Shows
Venture Capital Search
Franchises
Small-Business-Friendly Banks
Small Business Activity in Each State
Yellow Pages
Opportunity Finder
SmallBiz Web Guides
E-Commerce
Design , Site Marketing , Starting Our ...
Home Office
Marketing , Office Setup , Insurance ...
Management
Leadership , Legal Issues , Personnel ...
Money & Finance
Personal Finance , Raising Money , Taxes ...
Opportunities
Biz Opportunities , Franchises , MLM ...
Sales & Marketing
Advertising , Marketing , Sales ...
Starting Out
Financing , Ideas , Inventions ...
Technology
Computers , Communications , Software ...
Subscribe to Entrepreneur
Home | Newsletters | Bookstore | Search Center | Subscribe | Tools
Help
| Contact Us | Media Kit | Entrepreneur En Español Copyright © 2002 Entrepreneur.com, Inc. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy
Results from search: http://www.insure.com/business/
Choose one
Auto
Term Life
Health
Homeowners
Dental
Quick Issue Life
Children's Life
Group Health
Medicare Supp
Long Term Care
Fixed Annuity
Travel
Motorcycle
Boat/Watercraft
PrePaid Legal
Classic Auto
Classic Boat
Choose one
Auto
Term Life
Health
Homeowners
Dental
Quick Issue Life
Children's Life
Group Health
Medicare Supp
Long Term Care
Fixed Annuity
Travel
Motorcycle
Boat/Watercraft
PrePaid Legal
Classic Auto
Classic Boat
AL
AK
AZ
AR
CA
CO
CT
DE
DC
FL
GA
ID
IL
IN
IA
KS
KY
LA
ME
MD
MA
MI
MN
MS
MO
MT
NE
NV
NH
NJ
NM
NY
NC
ND
OH
OK
OR
PA
RI
SC
SD
TN
TX
UT
VT
VA
WA
WV
WI
WY
insure.com - business insurance, news, and advice
Small Business Insurance
Basics of small business insurance
Cars: Using your personal car for business
Crime insurance
Directors and officers insurance
Disability insurance glossary
Disability: Long term disability
Disability: Short term disability
Disability: Early intervention cuts costs
Disaster survival tips for businesses
Expatriate health insurance
Group health: Buying online
Group health: Frequently asked questions
Group health: How to choose an agent or broker
Group life: How to buy for your small business
Hole-in-one insurance
Home-based business: Car insurance
Home-business: Health, life, and disability
Home-based business: How to shop for insurance
Hurricane tips for businesses
Injuries: Dangerous workplaces
Injuries: Most common fatal workplace injuries
Key person life insurance
Kidnap and ransom insurance
Laptop computer insurance
PEOs: Professional employer organizations
Sexual harassment insurance
Tornado tips for businesses
Workers compensation insurance library
Workplace-violence insurance
The insure.com Small Business Liability Tool
Here's the starting point for selecting the right insurance for your small business. We tell you the common risks your business faces and what insurance coverage your broker might recommend. We also introduce you to the business insurance terms you'll need to know before you buy.
Directors and officers insurance cleans up executive messes
Coverage for employment and mismanagement claims against execs.
Expatriate health insurance: Don't leave homeland without it
We tell you why your American health plan probably won't cover you, and what you can do about it.
Kidnap and ransom insurance to the rescue
See the worst countries for kidnappings and learn how insurance can protect you.
Workers compensation insurance library
Our collection of feature stories will help you understand this complex subject.
The insure.com Workers Comp Insurance Law Tool
This interactive tool tells you the important workers comp laws where you do business, including minimum and maximum payments, time limits for claims, how physicians must be chosen, where there are state funds, and where employers are allowed to self-insure.
Massive increases in commercial health insurance costs expected in 2003
Will the buck be passed to you ?
Insurance industry scamming Americans after Sept. 11?
A report says that insurers' dire predictions for their industry are a load of bunk.
Airlines to form own insurance company to cover terrorism
The airlines take matters into their own hands.
Results from search: http://www6.americanexpress.com/smallbusiness/resources/starting/small_business_insurance/
Law & Insurance: Small Business Insurance Primer
-- Select a Topic --
Buying/Selling a Business
Day to Day Management
Expanding Internationally
Finding Money
Finding More Customers
Franchising/Business Opportunities
Government Contracting
Hiring, Firing and Managing Staff
Incorporation & Business Structure
Law & Insurance
Managing Clients & Customers
Managing Your Cash
Marketing
Online Marketing
Startup Issues
Taxes
Travel
Working at Home
Small Business Insurance Primer
It can be difficult to determine which kind of insurance you need for your small business. Different types of insurance have confusingly similar names; your state, town, or county may have its own insurance requirements; and many industries have coverage specific to them.
Insurance is one of the most neglected small business responsibilities. Not having the appropriate insurance for your small business is a mistake because a disaster can shut down your company permanently, or at least wreak havoc on your assets.
The Insurance Information Institute (III) in New York City estimates that about 40 percent of small business owners have no insurance at all, because many falsely believe they can't afford coverage. The truth is a small business can't afford not to have adequate insurance. Without insurance, you're unnecessarily putting your livelihood at risk. That's also why many landlords, suppliers, and other entities you work with will probably require you to have coverage.
If you're having difficulty determining which kind of insurance your business should have, you might want to check with the following agencies:
The county or city clerk
A local chapter of your industry association
The state insurance office
Below are some of the different types of insurance small businesses use. Click on the type of insurance to get a more detailed description.
Insurance for Your Business
Business Owner's Policy
General Liability Insurance
Property Insurance
Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions) Insurance
Commercial Automobile Insurance
Umbrella Insurance
Business Income/Extra Expense Insurance
Product Liability Insurance
Extra Equipment Insurance
Specialized Equipment Insurance
Insurance for You and Your Employees
Health Insurance
Disability Insurance
Life Insurance
Keyman Insurance
Workers' Compensation Insurance
Home |
Search |
Expert Advice |
Help |
Site Map
Copyright (c) 2000 American Express Company . All Rights Reserved.
Users of this site agree to be bound by the terms of the American Express Web Site Rules and Regulations.
View Web Site Rules and Regulations and
trademarks and
Privacy Statement of American Express.
See Corporate Entities and Important Disclosures for additional information about the American Express entities who offer products and services on americanexpress.com.
American Express Brokerage is offered by American Express Financial Advisors Inc., Member NASD and SIPC.
American Express Company is separate from American Express Financial Advisors Inc. and is not a broker dealer.
Results from search: http://www.chamberbiz.com/
Small Business Information - ChamberBiz
The Ultimate Small Business Resource
Our Mission
Site Guide
Search:
on the Web in ChamberBiz
We help you zero in on your business risks and obtain the right insurance to address them.
Business Owners Policy -
Errors & Omissions/Professional Liability
Workers Compensation -
Employment Practices
International Insurance -
Benefits for Your Employees
BIZCENTER
Manage Your Business
Start Your Business
First Steps ,
Business Plans ,
Getting Financing
Manage Your Business
Bookkeeping ,
Employees ,
Financing ,
Office Management ,
Taxes
Expand Your Business
Sales/Marketing ,
Recruiting/Hiring ,
Win Gov't Contracts
Insurance Center
Business Owners Policy ,
Errors & Omissions/Professional Liability ,
Workers Compensation ,
Employment Practices ,
International Insurance ,
Employee Benefits
Resources
Legal Center ,
Internet Center ,
Business Services ,
Business Documents
Build Personal Wealth
Exiting Your Business
MARKETPLACE
Buy and Sell Online
Insurance Agency Services , Office Supplies , 6.1¢ Long Distance Service , Web Site Service , Small Business Services
GOVERNMENT
Regulations Affecting You
Federal
Regulatory Compliance Guide ,
RegAssist ,
Resources
State and Local Laws
State By State Resources
The Donohue Letter
Politics
RESEARCH TOOLS
References, Forms, and more
Create Your Own Surveys
Find a Chamber of Commerce
Online Business Services
Business Forms & Templates
Small Business Buyer Guides
Web & Site Search
Maps & Directions
Join Your Chamber of Commerce
Chambers of Commerce are vital, dynamic links for any business looking to succeed and grow in today's competitive environment. From acting as an advocate for business interests, to providing opportunities to network within your community, Chambers of Commerce are uniquely positioned to provide every business owner resources that can't be found anywhere else.
Enter your zip code to join your local Chamber today:
Zip:
ChamberBiz Today
May 14, 2002
Business Plan Case Studies
Ready to start a business but need ideas for your formal business plan? ChamberBiz offers these case studies to help guide you in creating a plan that makes your business dream a reality.
Read more...
Top Stories
Sharon: No Talks Until Terror Stops
Amtrak Train Hits Truck in S.C.
Carter Debates Democracy With Castro
Stocks
Index
Last
Change
DJIA
10298.90
189.24
NASDAQ
1719.06
66.52
S&P500
1097.28
22.72
AMEX
956.67
2.77
Market News
Quotes delayed at least 20 minutes.
Industry News
Aerospace/Defense ,
Auto ,
Aviation , Banking , Business/Finance , Chemical , Computers , Economy , Energy , Entertainment , Health Care , Insurance , Internet , Metals/Minerals , Real Estate , Retail , Telecommunications , Transportation , Travel , Utilities
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Institute for Organization Management is the premier continuing education program for chamber and assocation professionals.
ChamberBiz has joined with ChamberWeb , the business portal of the Japanese Chambers of Commerce , to provide you with resources to help you conduct business in Japan.
Using Microsoft Internet Explorer? Click one of the following to make ChamberBiz your homepage or one of your favorites .
Using Netscape? Click to set your homepage or press CRTL-D to bookmark ChamberBiz.
Update Your Profile |
FAQ |
Contact Us |
Terms |
About ChamberBiz |
Privacy Statement
©2000-2002 ChamberBiz
1615 H Street NW, Suite #457 - Washington, DC 20062-2000
Phone: 1-888-948-1429 Fax: 202-835-1420
All Rights Reserved
Results from search: http://www.andys-now2business.co.uk/
Small Business Finder - UK Directory
Home
¦
Submit Web Site
¦
Web Site Promotion
¦
About
¦
Contact
¦
Affiliate Program
¦
T&C
¦
© mediafusion 2002
Join Us!
The Now2Business Small-Business-Finder is the place to find new business or let new business find you.
You could be listed in the most effective, yet least expensive, UK b2b directory within 2 working days for less than the price of a meal for two!
We could be sending you enquiries just a few hours after submission, but don't take our word for it; read what our customers have to say!
WEB SITE PROMOTION
Want to get ahead of the competition? Got a great product/service and web site but nobody is looking at them?
In addition to our business directory we offer a full range of web site promotion services that will make a real difference to the quantity and quality of visitors finding your web site.
Check out our free web promotion guide and read our customer comments.
The UK Small Business Finder Directory
Advertising
Agency, Consultants, Design, Promotional Items...
Electronics
CCTV, Components, Design, Test Equipment...
Marketing
Consultancy, Direct Marketing, Promotional, Services, Services...
Aerospace
Aircraft, Equipment, Flight Simulators, Helicopter...
Entertainment
Conferences, Corporate, Sound Equipment...
Media
Broadcast Video, Exhibition, Pre-Press, Printers...
Agricultural
Buildings, Chemicals, Engineers, Livestock...
Financial Services
Accountants, Business Finance, Insurance...
Office Supplies
Packaging...
Automotive
Car Components, Car Dealer, Garage Equipment...
Food Industry
Bakery, Fish, Ingredients, Organic...
Pharmaceuticals
Biotechnology, Manufacturers, Packaging, Scientific...
Business Services
Language Translation, Secretarial...
Health
Dental , Medical Equipment, Medical Services...
Recruitment
Call Centres, Education, Information Technology...
Chemicals
Engineering, Gases, Petrochemicals, Plant...
Industrial
Energy, Equipment, Mechanical Engineering...
Retail
Security...
Commercial Property
Security, Serviced Offices...
Internet
Programming, Promotion, Services, Web Design...
Telecoms
Call Centre, Equipment, Services, Services, Testing...
Computers
Consultancy, Hardware, Networks, Software...
Legal Services
Services, Solicitors, Training...
Textiles
CADCAM Software, Fabrics, Finishing...
Construction
Contractors, Design, Materials, Plant...
Manufacturing
Electrical, Machinery, Packaging, Plastics...
Transport
Air Freight, Couriers, Distribution, Road Haulage...
Education & Training
Engineering, IT Information Technology, Languages...
Marine
Corrosion Prevention, Products, Services...
Wholesalers
Books, Clothing, Electrical, Household Products...
Search Directory
TIP: Comma separate keywords for a relevance ranked results list, eg. promotion, company, advertising
Online UK Shopping Directory
Discount Hotel Finder
UK Hotels Accommodation
Business Search | Submit to UK Small Business Directory
Small Business
BT Business - connections that get results
Whether you want a new CRM system or broadband connection, BT can provide the information communications technology solutions that will help you cut costs and boost your business.
The Royal Bank of Scotland
We believe the key to success is a close working relationship with our customers. That's why we offer dedicated Relationship Managers based locally in our branches and offices across the UK
Small business advice from bCentral
For small business advice from Microsoft on technology and marketing, click here.
IT and e-business services for SMEs
Flexible IT and e-business services tailored to the individual needs of SMEs, including web design, e-business and e-commerce solutions, IT consultancy and support services.
Results from search: http://www.insurance.ca.gov/CSD/Ins4sbo.htm
Business Insurance for the Small Business Owner
Consumer Services
Business Insurance for the Small Business
Owner
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Worker's Compensation
Insurance
Commercial Auto
Property Insurance
Liability Insurance
Nonadmitted Insurers
Small Business and
Commercial Insurance - FAQ
Return to Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION
Business insurance is a complex subject, as diverse as
business itself. Selecting an agent or broker experienced in
business exposures and the commercial insurance market is
extremely important. Interview several agents and ask for
referrals. When shopping for coverages, get several quotes or
proposals and have these in writing.
Contractual agreements that enable your business to operate,
such as leases, merchandising, and finance contacts, may obligate
you to insure beyond your immediate concern. Review them, if
possible, with your agent.
As you shop for your insurance you will see special terms and
concepts unique to business insurance. Ask your agent to explain
anything you are not familiar with. Be sure you understand how
your insurance premium will be calculated. It may be floor area
or, more frequently, payroll or sales income. In any case, your
cooperation for access to your books, records, and/or premises is
expected.
Policy periods are generally annual. Payment is due when
coverage starts or as agreed upon. Premium financing is usually
available, but be aware of the interest rate you will be paying,
as well as the authority given to the financing organization and
how any disruption in your payments will affect your coverage.
Return to Table of Contents
WORKERS' COMPENSATION
INSURANCE
An employee who has suffered an injury or illness resulting
from employment is entitled to workers' compensation benefits
provided at the employer's expense. California Labor Code Section
3700 requires that every employer in California either buy
workers' compensation insurance from a licensed insurance
company, or obtain a certificate of self insurance from the
California Department of Industrial Relations. Failure of an
employer to secure payment of compensation may result in
imposition of both civil and criminal penalties! Because of the
elaborate requirements and considerations with this insurance, it
is recommended that business owners refer to Worker's
Compensation brochures available from the Department of Insurance
and the Department of Industrial Relations.
Return to Table of Contents
COMMERCIAL AUTO
Commercial auto insurance largely parallels private auto
insurance. Still, familiarity is recommended. Whenever your
transport a client or move property by a motor vehicle, you
should have an understanding of how your commercial auto
insurance will work. Also, how will "non-owned" autos,
newly acquired vehicles, or changes in drivers effect your
coverage.
Return to Table of Contents
PROPERTY INSURANCE
Business insurance may cover property of all types that you
own or is in your "care, custody, and control". It may
be buildings, improvements, equipment, inventory, goods in
transit, earnings, etc. Your contractual obligations may also
require you to protect other people's property as well.
Coverages
Property coverage is addressed from two sides of the same
idea. "Named Perils" names each peril to be insured
against; such as fire, explosion, aircraft damage, windstorm,
etc. Other perils may be added along the way. "All
Risk" starts from the other side, assuming all perils are
covered except those named in the "Exclusions" of the
policy. Obviously, the exclusions are an important part of the
All Risk policy. Perils often excluded are: theft, flood, and
earthquake. Since the All Risk policy affords better protection,
it is more expensive to purchase than the Named Perils policy.
The difference between Named Perils and All Risk is a typical
example of the kind of thinking and interpretation you must apply
to understanding how your insurance policy will cover your
business. Remember, your agent is there to help you in
understanding your coverages.
Insurance of property is based on its value, however that may
be derived. There are "co-insurance" penalties for
failing to insure to value. These penalties will be applied to
any loss adjustment. Determination of value is also important for
calculating the premium and compensating for a loss. Some terms
often used are: "actual cash value" meaning market or
depreciated value, "replacement cost", "selling
price" for unsold inventory, and the many coverages of
"business interruption".
Claims
Because of deductibles, dollar limits you agree to absorb in
the event of a loss, and other ways of sharing the burden of
coverage, you should be prepared for how the insurer will handle
a claim. Large deductibles, although they afford a reduction in
premium, can have a critical effect on your cash flow if you are
operating on and have access to very little capital. Also, you
cannot rely on insurance to always or completely cover your
losses. A frequency of claims will have a definite and sometimes
harsh effect on the insurer's willingness to continue to insure
your business. Although business-owners generally purchase
replacement cost coverage, insurers often limit their initial
compensation payment for loss to actual cash value until such
time as the owner has replaced the items lost. The policy,
itself, will define the time-frame to start the process of
replacing items, generally six months. This method of handling
claims is prevalent and you should be prepared to make up
whatever difference between the value of your loss and what the
company legitimately pays. Obviously the best preparation
includes taking necessary measures to minimize or eliminate
losses in those areas where you have control.
California FAIR Plan
If you can't find business property insurance in your area,
consider the California Fair Plan. Although it is not available
everywhere in the state, most agents can help you in applying in
qualified areas. The California Fair Plan can be reached at
1-800-252-0089.
Return to Table of Contents
LIABILITY INSURANCE
Good business practice dictates that you take adequate
measures to protect other people and/or their property against
any damage your company and/or its property may cause. This is
the coverage afforded by business liability insurance. It may be
required by government statute or by the threat of litigation.
Coverages Major types of business liability
insurance you should be familiar with are: premises/operations,
lessor's risk, contractual, products/completed operations,
personal injury, non-owned auto, and professional liability.
Discuss these thoroughly with your agent to determine
appropriateness and limits for adequate protection.
Limits
Limits of liability are the maximum amount of the money the
policy will pay on a single loss. They are generally set
somewhere in relation to your assets, as your interest in
compensating others diminishes once that compensation has
exceeded your resources. Limits may be expressed as a single
figure in a "combined single limit" or "split
limits" which specify one amount for bodily injury and
another for property damage.
Claims
Knowing whether claims are paid on a "per
occurrence" or a "claims made" basis can mean the
difference between a covered claim and no coverage. Ask your
agent to explain these terms and find out how claims will be
handled for your particular policies.
Premiums
Different exposures generate premium in different ways.
Offices where no customers visit are one kind of exposure,
factories with blast furnaces are another. Some factors that
determine premium are: square footage, payroll, sales, expenses
for independent contractors, number of employees, etc. You should
know how your premium is derived. You should also be aware of how
much you are committing to deposit premiums and what effect
audits and changes in your business activities will have on your
premium. Where possible, get complete explanations of premium
terms and coverages in writing.
Return to Table of Contents
NONADMITTED INSURERS
If you are unable to obtain insurance from an admitted
(licensed in California) insurer, you may find yourself
considering purchase of "nonadmitted" (not licensed in
California) insurance. Be aware that nonadmitted insurance
companies are not subject to the financial solvency regulation
and enforcement which applies to California admitted companies,
nor are they covered by the California Insurance Guarantee
Association in case of insolvency. Contact the Department of
Insurance at 1-800-927-HELP for more details.
Return to Table of Contents
SMALL BUSINESS & COMMERCIAL
INSURANCE
Operating a business is difficult enough without having to be
concerned about suffering significant financial loss, or worse,
due to unforeseen events occurring. Insurance is to protect
against loss of your investment and financial impairment to your
business. Some of the most commonly asked questions regarding
commercial insurance are discussed below:
Q. How do I go about obtaining business insurance?
A. The first step in obtaining proper business insurance is to
find and contact a reliable insurance agent or broker. Business
contacts can often refer you to someone that they have had good
experience with. When looking through the yellow pages, look for
specialization in commercial insurance, and membership in one of
the professional agents or brokers associations. When dealing
with the agent initially, they should do their own analysis or
survey of your exposures, and then ask to review any present
coverages. To do otherwise could perpetuate any errors, gaps or
overlaps that may exist in your present program.
Q. What kind of insurance do I need?
A. There are six broad areas of exposure:
Property
Time Element
Crime
Automobile
Liability
Workers' Compensation
Not every business will have exposures in every area, which is
why an analysis must be done. The State requires Workers'
Compensation insurance if there are any employees. Various
governmental agencies may require certain types of insurance. For
example, the Contractors State License Board requires bonds for
contractors, and the Public Utilities Commission requires
Commercial Automobile insurance. Most other insurance is a
business decision on your part. However, contracts you may enter
into, such as leases, loans, etc., may contain, insurance
requirements you have to comply with, and of which you should be
aware.
Q. Can any exposures be reduced or eliminated?
A. You can order an inspection by a Loss Control Engineer to
uncover hazardous conditions. Recommendations from this report
can benefit you by helping to reduce premiums and making your
business more attractive to insurers.
Q. What are some of the specific exposures and how are
they covered?
A. Following is a table of common exposures and appropriate
coverages:
PROPERTY
Exposure
Coverage
Buildings
Commercial Building policy, Fire(owned) and Extended
coverage minimum.
Buildings(leased):
(a) Lessee required to provide insurance.
Same as owned building.
(b) Lessee not required to provide insurance.
Same as owned building.
Building under construction.
Builders Risk Policy.
Contents of Building.
Business Personal Property Policy (includes
furniture, fixtures, equipment and stock.) Fire & EC
minimum.
Tools & Equipment (used away from the premises).
Contractors Equipment floater.
Stock
Usually insured as part of Business Personal
Property. If values fluctuate considerably during the
year, a reporting form may be appropriate.
Property of others in possession for storage,
service, or repair.
May be covered under Business Personal Property or
Special types of coverage.
Damage to Boiler, Air conditioners, Air
compressor,etc.
Boiler & Machinery coverage.
Loss or damage to stock while being transported in an
owned motorvehicle.
Motor Truck Cargo coverage.
Loss or damage to property shipped via:
(a) Common Carrier
Transportation Coverage.
(b) Mail
Mail Coverage.
(c) Common Carrier, Overseas.
Cargo Policy
Loss due to faulty discharge of water from Automatic
Sprinkler system.
Usually covered by Commercial Building and Business
Personal Property coverage.
TIME ELEMENT
Loss of profits due to insured loss.
Business Income(interruption) Coverage.
Expenses necessary to continue business operations
after insured loss.
Extra Expense coverage as part of Business Income
Coverage.
Loss of rents due to building(s) not being
habitiable, due to insured loss.
Generally included in Business Income coverage.
CRIME
Loss of money due to robbery
Robbery & Safe Burglary coverage
burglary, on or off premises.
-Money & Securities
off premises.
COMMERCIAL AUTO
Liability & Physical Damage exposures.
All such exposures can be dealt with by a
comprehensive Commercial Auto Policy, a Truckers coverage
policy or Motor Carriers policy.
LIABILITY
Business operations and premises.
Comprehensive General Liability policy.
Products manufactured, distributed, or sold.
Comprehensive General Liability policy or Products,
Completed Operations Policy.
Work performed by you under contract such as
construction.
Comprehensive General Liability policy or Products,
Completed Operations Policy.
Premises owned but not occupied by owner.
Comprehensive General Liability policy.
Liability for the contractors or subcontractors.
Comprehensive General Liability policy, or Owners and
Contractors Protective Liability.
Losses in excess of policy limits or need high limit
of liability.
Umbrella Liability Policy.
Q. In Commercial Insurance, are there policies that
provide or combine the various kinds of coverages like a
Homeowners policy does with personal insurance?
A. Yes there are various "package" policies available.
Programs such as the Business Owners Policy (BOP), Special Multi
Peril (SMP) and insurance company designed packages are
constantly being marketed. Many insurers design packages to meet
specialized needs. Such as Auto Garages, Auto Dealers, Jewelers,
Furriers, Barbers and Beauty Salons, and Apartment Buildings.
Competent Commercial Agents and Brokers are prepared to offer
these programs.
Q. Can I obtain Earthquake insurance for a business?
A. The insurance companies are not required to offer earthquake
insurance on commercial property. The availability is therefore
determined by the market place and individual company
underwriting decisions. Here again, the agent can do the
searching for you.
Q. How much does business insurance cost?
A. Your cost will be unique to your exposure; that is, it will be
similar risks insured by the same company, but since this is a
competitive market, different companies will have different
premiums. You should know the basis for the premiums. Property
insurance premiums are based on a rate per $100 coverage. Factors
that go into making the rate are construction of building,
occupancy and use, public protection, neighboring exposures and
internal protection, such as sprinklers, etc.
The premium basis for liability insurance depends on the type
of business. Stores and manufacturing are based on gross sales.
Contracting and service businesses are based on payroll.
Apartments are based on the number of units, hotels, on gross
sales, and office space and property owned and leased to others
are based on square footage area.
Anything based on sales or payroll is auditable and can result
in additional or return premium. Companies have minimum and
deposit premium requirements, which can and do vary, and should
be considered when shopping.
Q. How can I find out about insurance companies that
are presented to me?
A.First, ask the agent for background on the company. Then call
the Department of Insurance Hotline to find out status in
California, how long in the state etc. You may then want to go to
the library and obtain detailed financial information and ratings
by reviewing rating service reports published by A.M. Best,
Standard & Poors, Moodys or other rating services.
Q. After I agree to purchase insurance, complete the
applications and pay money, how do I know I have insurance?
A. You should be given a "binder" signed by the agent,
showing you as the insured, effective date of coverage, the
insurance company, location and description of property insured,
amounts of coverage, limits of liability and other pertinent
information. A binder may be valid for up to 90 days pending
issuance of the policy.
Q. Can an insurance company cancel my insurance?
A. A company has a 60 day underwriting period, during which they
review the application and other information submitted, possibly
have an inspection done, and verify the rating and premium
calculation. The company may cancel your insurance within that 60
day period. They must give you at least 10 days notice of
cancellation.
After 60 days, the reasons a policy may be cancelled are very
limited. The reason and a 30 day notice must be given. When the
reason is nonpayment of premium or fraud, 10 days notice is
required.
Q. When I receive my policy(s), how can I be sure they
contain what I agreed to?
A. Ask your agent to deliver the policy(s) in person, review them
with you and answer any questions you might have.
Q. How would I know if the insurance company is
nonrenewing my insurance?
A. The insurance company must give at least 60 days, but not more
than 120 days notice of nonrenewal, and the reasons.
QUESTIONS OR COMPLAINTS
If you have questions or a complaint against an agent or
insurance company, please call our toll free Consumer Services
number.
Last Revised - August 15, 1997
Copyright © California Department of Insurance
Disclaimer
Results from search: http://www.travelers.com/
Travelers Insurance offers Auto Insurance, Homeowners Insurance, Small Business Insurance, Commercial Insurance and Life Insurance
> Auto, Home & More
> Life Insurance
> Investing for Retirement
> Find an Agent
> Claim Services
- Report your claim day or night, 365 days a year. 1-800-CLAIM33 (1-800-252-4633)
> Small Business Center
> Business Insurance
> Surety & Executive Liability
> Find an Agent
> Claim Services
May 10, 2002
Travelers Property Casualty's CFO Jay Benet Presents at Goldman Sachs Financial Services Conference
May 9, 2002
Travelers Property Casualty Names New Board Members
May 6, 2002
Travelers' Injured Worker Website Delivers On Promise
Privacy & Legal Notices ©2002 Travelers Property Casualty Corp. ©2002 The Travelers Insurance Company and its affiliates.
If you would like your website removed from
our search result
posting, please click here.
Links
