Shapiro Administration Celebrates Small Business Owners, Urges Fire Safety and Insurance Protection | Insurance Department | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA - Today the Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID), the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC), and others visited a local small business to share how small business owners can protect their business and property by ensuring they have sufficient insurance coverage. Alongside a small business owner whose business experienced a serious fire, PID and Color Bar Beauty Salon ownership discussed how essential the insurance was in the business's recovery and reopening, and OSFC leadership also shared the importance of fire safety and how it safeguards businesses from potential fires.

"Small businesses are the backbone of so many communities across the Commonwealth, and the Shapiro Administration is committed to helping businessowners have the tools they need to succeed as they invest in their community," said Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys. "We want small businesses to thrive. While a fire, flood, or major accident can disrupt business operations, comprehensive insurance coverage is available to make sure that the unexpected doesn't make the business close its doors for good. We urge all small business owners to review their insurance portfolios to make sure they are protected and prepared to bounce-back from any unexpected loss."

One of the most effective ways small business owners can protect themselves is by purchasing a Business Owner's Policy (BOP). A BOP combines several key types of coverage into one policy and helps business owners protect themselves from a multitude of risks. A standard BOP typically includes:

• Commercial Property Insurance (which protects a business's physical assets from risks like fire, theft or vandalism);

• General Liability Insurance (which covers claims for bodily injury, property damage, personal injury or injury caused by business operations); and

• Business Interruption Insurance (which replaces lost income if your business operations are disrupted due to a covered property loss, such as a fire or flood).

"During a time of loss and devastation, knowing I had a reliable insurance company standing by my side through every step of the process was truly a blessing," said Nicole Raptapolus, owner of Color Bar Beauty Salon.

Business owners can also customize a BOP with additional coverage to address specific needs, such as workers' compensation and commercial auto insurance. Bundling is one of the more cost-effective ways owners can protect their property, income, and liability risks under one policy.

OSFC encourages business owners to work proactively to reduce fire risks before an emergency occurs. Simple steps such as maintaining fire extinguishers and alarm systems, keeping exits clear, safely storing flammable materials, and training employees on fire safety and evacuation procedures can significantly reduce the likelihood of a devastating fire. Developing and practicing an emergency action plan can also help businesses recover more quickly after an incident.

"Small businesses are essential to the success of communities across Pennsylvania, and protecting them starts with prevention," said Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook. "Taking time to review fire safety procedures, inspect equipment, and ensure employees know what to do in an emergency can save lives, protect property, and help businesses avoid devastating financial losses. We encourage every business owner to work closely with their local fire department and insurance professionals to make sure they are prepared before disaster strikes."

What Business Owners Should Do After Property Damage

Navigating the claims process as a small business owner can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps early can help speed up the claims process. Business owners should:

• Contact their insurance agent or company as soon as possible;
• Check their policy for details regarding what is covered and how it addresses the replacement value of lost or damaged items;
• Be sure to give their insurance company all the information it needs, otherwise their claim could be denied;
• Take photographs or videos before cleaning up and making repairs; and,
• Keep track of any damage to the business property, lost business items, and expenses caused by the claim.

Once the damage is documented, business owners should only make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. If a claim is denied, business owners should review the terms of their policy and file an appeal with their insurance company's claim manager. If questions remain, owners are encouraged to contact PID at pa.gov/consumer or by calling 1-866-PA-COMPLAINT (1-866-722-6675).

OSFC supports the fire service in Pennsylvania through grant and loan programs along with resources for community risk reduction, recruitment and retention, and provides fire training resources, certifications, and curriculum through the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy.

Pennsylvanians can visit PID's Business Insurance Needs page to learn more about business insurance and related information.