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Is a Business Owners Policy Worth It for Your Home-Based Business?

Running a business from home has its perks: no commute, comfy clothes, and plenty of control over your space. But there’s one thing that many home-based business owners overlook—insurance. Since you’re working from home, a standard home insurance policy will cover everything, right? Well…not quite. This is where a Business Owners Policy (BOP) comes into play.

What’s a Business Owners Policy (BOP), and Do You Really Need It?

Think of a BOP as a bundled insurance package designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It usually includes three main areas of protection: property insurance, general liability insurance, and business interruption insurance. For a home-based business, this might sound a bit intense. But this coverage could be just what you need to keep your business running smoothly.

Here’s the thing: your home insurance doesn’t typically cover business-related risks. So, if your inventory gets damaged in a home flood, your laptop is stolen, or a client is injured while visiting your home office, you’re probably out of luck. With a BOP, you’re covered for these risks, meaning your business can survive even if things go sideways.

Coverage Highlights for Home-Based Businesses

  1. Business Property Coverage: If your business equipment or inventory is damaged, lost, or stolen, while stored at your house, your BOP has you covered. And remember, these items are often not protected under a regular home insurance policy!
  2. General Liability: This one is crucial. If a client or delivery person gets injured while visiting your home office, a BOP can help cover any medical expenses or legal fees. No one wants to think about this, but a single accident could cost thousands without liability coverage.
  3. Business Interruption Insurance: Ever thought about what would happen if you had to pause operations? If a covered event (like a fire or flood) disrupts your business, this part of your BOP can help make up for lost income while you get back on your feet.

Is a BOP Right for You?

If you have significant business equipment, deal with clients or vendors at your home, or simply want peace of mind, then yes, a BOP could be worth it. It’s not just for big offices or brick-and-mortar stores. The protection can be tailored to suit the unique needs of a home-based business, giving you a safety net that goes beyond a regular homeowner’s policy.

How to Get Started

Getting a BOP doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, at Avalue Insurance, we make it easy to understand and personalize your coverage so that it fits your business, your space, and your budget.

Ready to protect your home-based business? Contact Avalue Insurance today, and let’s chat about whether or not a BOP is right for you! You can give us a call at 303-773-3332, shoot us an email at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online! 

How Umbrella Insurance Covers Legal Fees and Lawsuit Settlements

In an increasingly litigious society, the threat of legal action is a reality that can’t be ignored. Legal proceedings and the potential for large settlements can pose a significant financial risk. At Avalue Insurance, located in Centennial, CO, we advocate for the security that an umbrella insurance policy can provide in these circumstances.

Umbrella Insurance: An Overview

Umbrella insurance is a form of personal liability insurance that offers an additional layer of protection beyond the limits of standard policies, such as homeowners or auto insurance. It comes into play when the liability coverage of these primary policies is exhausted, providing an essential safety net against substantial claims.

Covering Legal Costs with Umbrella Insurance

One of the significant advantages of umbrella insurance is its capacity to cover legal costs. If you find yourself facing a lawsuit, the associated expenses, including attorney fees, can mount rapidly. Umbrella insurance can cover these costs, shielding you from the potential financial impact of a legal battle.

Settlement Safeguard: How Umbrella Insurance Helps

Beyond legal fees, umbrella insurance also provides coverage for lawsuit settlements. If a legal judgment is made against you, the settlement amount could potentially exceed the limits of your primary insurance policies. In such scenarios, your umbrella insurance policy steps in, covering the excess amount and safeguarding your financial stability.

At Avalue Insurance in Centennial, CO, we understand the financial risks that legal proceedings can pose. Our umbrella insurance policies are designed to offer the additional coverage you need to navigate these challenges with confidence. Contact us today to learn more about how umbrella insurance can provide you with the financial protection you need.

Top Risks Contractors Face on the Job (And How Insurance Can Help)

Contracting work comes with its own unique set of risks. Whether you’re in construction, electrical, plumbing, or another hands-on industry, you know that even with the best safety practices, accidents can still happen. A single incident — like an injury on-site or damage to a client’s property — can lead to costly legal fees and settlements that could seriously impact your business. And that’s where general liability insurance comes in, providing a safety net so you can keep doing what you do best without worrying about the financial fallout of unexpected mishaps.

Why Contractors Face Higher Risks

There’s risk in every industry, but for contractors, it’s significantly higher. You’re often dealing with heavy machinery, heights, hazardous materials, and public spaces, which can all increase the chances of something going wrong. Because of this, general liability insurance isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have. In fact, many clients won’t even consider hiring a contractor without proof of liability coverage. This not only shows that you’re serious about safety, but it also means that your clients (and you!) can have peace of mind in case something goes wrong.

How General Liability Insurance Protects Contractors

Protecting Your Business Assets: Let’s say someone trips over a power tool at your worksite and sues you for medical expenses. Without sufficient liability insurance, your business assets could be at risk if you’re found responsible. General liability insurance helps cover these claims, keeping your assets safe from seizure.

Ensuring Business Survival: Legal fees and settlements can quickly add up, and if a court judgment goes against you, it could threaten the very survival of your business. General liability insurance is there to cover these expenses (up to your policy limits), giving you a safety net so your business can survive even the toughest legal battles.

Security for You and Your Employees: Liability insurance doesn’t just protect your business as a whole; it also provides coverage for individual employees. So if an employee makes a mistake that causes property damage or injury, your general liability insurance has you covered. This level of security allows you and your team to work confidently, knowing you’re protected.

How Much Does Contractor’s General Liability Insurance Cost?

The cost of general liability insurance for contractors can vary based on several factors. These include the size of your business, your location, your company’s track record with accidents or claims, and the level of coverage you need. If you’re a contractor who only needs basic liability coverage and not a full business owner’s policy (BOP), you might even be eligible for a contractor-specific general liability policy at a more affordable rate.

Ready to Protect Your Business?

If you’re looking for the right coverage for your contracting business, Avalue Insurance is here to help! Our experienced agents understand the unique risks contractors face and are ready to guide you to the best coverage at the best rate. Contact Avalue Insurance today, and let us help you protect your business with the right kind of coverage! Give us a call at 303-773-3332, shoot us an email at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

Why Liquor Liability Can Make or Break Your Restaurant

Owning a restaurant is no small feat. From managing daily operations to delighting customers with amazing food, you’ve got a full plate. But, if your establishment serves alcohol, there’s one more crucial piece to the puzzle: liquor liability insurance. This coverage can be a true lifesaver, protecting your restaurant from potential legal and financial fallout if a customer who drank at your place causes an accident or gets into legal trouble. Let’s talk about why liquor liability insurance is crucial and what it can do for your business.

Why Do Restaurants Need Liquor Liability Insurance?

When it comes to serving alcohol, a lot is at stake. Despite your team’s best efforts to serve responsibly, things can go sideways. Liquor liability insurance steps in to cover damages if a patron overindulges and, as a result, causes harm to others or property. In many cases, restaurants can be held liable for what happens after a customer leaves the premises under what’s called “dram shop laws.” These laws allow injured parties to sue businesses that provided alcohol to someone who caused harm, which can lead to costly lawsuits.

Imagine this: A guest enjoys a few too many cocktails at your restaurant, decides to drive home, and gets into an accident. The victim could hold your restaurant partially responsible, even if you had no way of knowing your customer’s full intentions. Liquor liability insurance provides coverage to handle legal fees, settlements, and potential damages, protecting your restaurant’s bottom line and reputation.

What Does Liquor Liability Insurance Cover?

Liquor liability insurance goes beyond just covering damages; it’s designed to provide comprehensive protection in situations involving intoxicated patrons. Here’s what it generally covers:

  1. Third-Party Bodily Injury – This coverage protects you if a patron who consumed
    alcohol at your restaurant injures someone. This can include coverage for medical
    expenses, legal fees, and settlements.
  2. Property Damage – If an intoxicated patron damages someone else’s property, like a
    vehicle or another business, your policy could cover repair or replacement costs.
  3. Legal Fees – Lawsuits are expensive. Liquor liability insurance can take care of legal
    defense costs if your restaurant is taken to court.
  4. Assault and Battery – Some liquor liability policies cover incidents of assault and battery
    if they’re linked to alcohol service. This could include fights that break out on or near
    your premises.

Ready to Protect Your Business?

Liquor liability insurance isn’t just another policy; it’s a necessary layer of protection for any restaurant serving alcohol. With the right coverage in place, you can rest a little easier knowing you’re prepared for unexpected situations. At Avalue Insurance, we understand the unique risks restaurants face and are here to help you choose a policy that fits your needs.

Get in touch with Avalue Insurance today to learn more about liquor liability insurance and how we can help protect your restaurant! You can give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

Is Your Business Exposed?

How to Recognize When You Need Professional Liability Insurance

Running a business comes with a checklist of responsibilities: meeting client expectations, handling finances, managing a team — the list goes on. But in all the hustle and bustle, one critical question often gets overlooked: Are you protected against professional mistakes? That’s where professional liability insurance comes in.

You might think, “But I’m careful with my work. Why would I need this?” Unfortunately, even the most detail-oriented pros can experience a slip-up now and then. And in today’s world, clients aren’t shy about taking legal action if they feel the results didn’t meet their expectations. Professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions insurance, is your backup plan when things don’t go as planned. Let’s talk about why you need it and when you might be vulnerable without it.

When is Professional Liability Insurance Essential?

1). High Stakes in Client Work

If you’re in a profession where your advice or service directly affects someone else’s business or finances, you’re in a high-stakes environment. Consultants, accountants, marketing professionals, and other service providers often carry this weight. A minor oversight could lead to significant client losses, putting your business at risk of a costly lawsuit. Professional liability insurance helps cover legal fees and settlements so you can continue doing business.

2). Complex Contracts and Tight Deadlines

Ever had a contract with detailed demands and tight deadlines? The pressure is real, and if a client thinks you didn’t deliver as promised, they might come back with a complaint. Professional liability insurance steps in to handle the legal and financial aftermath if a client claims your service or advice wasn’t up to par.

3). Offering Advice or Recommendations

If your job involves recommending a course of action, like a financial plan, marketing strategy, or medical consultation, you’re shouldering a lot of responsibility. What if a client follows your advice and things go sideways? Having professional liability insurance can be a lifesaver, covering claims that arise from unintentional missteps in your recommendations.

4). You’re a Freelancer or Small Business Owner

Freelancers and small businesses might think they’re off the hook, but guess what? They’re actually at a higher risk since a single lawsuit could wipe out their finances. Even if you work solo or have a small team, professional liability insurance provides a safety net, so you’re not facing costly legal battles alone.

5). Client Contracts Require It

Some clients require you to carry professional liability insurance as part of your contract. They want peace of mind knowing you have the resources to handle things if issues arise. Not only does it make you a more attractive choice, but it also shows you’re serious about delivering quality work.

So, is Your Business at Risk?

Ask yourself: Do I work with clients who expect specific outcomes from my services? Do I give professional advice? If the answer to either question is “yes,” you’re likely a candidate for professional liability insurance. Imagine having the peace of mind that, even if something goes wrong, you won’t be left holding the (very expensive) bag.

In today’s world, even small mistakes can lead to big repercussions. Professional liability insurance doesn’t just protect your business financially; it also protects your reputation. After all, nothing says “I’ve got you covered” like actually being covered!

Ready to Protect Your Business?

If this resonates with you, it might be time to take a closer look at professional liability insurance. At Avalue Insurance, we understand that every business faces unique risks, and we’re here to help you find the perfect policy to safeguard what you’ve built. Contact us today to learn more about our professional liability insurance! You can give us a call at 303-773-3332, shoot us an email at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online! 

The Role of Workers’ Compensation in Your Commercial Insurance Package

Running a business in Centennial, CO comes with its fair share of responsibilities, and one of the most important is ensuring the safety and well-being of your employees. This is where workers’ compensation insurance comes into play. At Avalue Insurance, we understand the crucial role workers’ compensation plays in your commercial insurance package.

What is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to protect employees who get injured or become ill as a result of their job. It can cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages. Additionally, it can provide death benefits to the family of an employee who dies due to a work-related incident.

Why is Workers’ Compensation Insurance Important?

Workers’ compensation insurance is not just a legal requirement in most states, it’s also a crucial part of protecting your business. Without it, you could be held financially responsible for the costs associated with a work-related injury or illness. This could include medical bills, ongoing care costs, and legal fees if an employee decides to sue.

How Does Workers’ Compensation Fit into Your Commercial Insurance Package?

Workers’ compensation is a key component of a comprehensive commercial insurance package. While commercial property insurance protects your physical assets and commercial liability insurance covers claims of bodily injury or property damage, workers’ compensation insurance specifically protects your most valuable asset – your employees.

Choosing the Right Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Choosing the right workers’ compensation insurance can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. The team at Avalue Insurance is here to help you understand your options and choose a policy that fits your business’s needs.

At Avalue Insurance in Centennial, CO, we’re committed to helping businesses protect their employees and their bottom line. Contact us today to learn more about how workers’ compensation insurance can benefit your commercial insurance package.

Pit Stop Problems

5 Common Risks for Commercial Garages and How Insurance Handles Them

Owning a commercial garage is no small feat. You’re juggling a lot of moving parts (literally!), and it’s all happening in a risky environment. Customer vehicles, heavy machinery, hands-on employees, hazardous materials — there’s a lot to think about, and a lot that could go wrong in your garage! Accidents are bound to happen, and when they do, commercial garage insurance could be the only thing standing between your business and a total financial breakdown.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves here. First, let’s talk about commercial garage insurance and why it’s important. Then, we’ll talk about some of the most common risks that commercial garages face (and how insurance can help you handle them).

What is Commercial Garage Insurance?

Garage insurance is designed to protect you from all kinds of potential losses — think property damage, customer injuries, or even a lawsuit. With garage insurance, you get a bundle of coverages like general liability, which shields you from financial liabilities due to accidents, and a business owner’s policy that protects your property and income. You can also include workers’ compensation for your employees and garage-keepers legal liability to cover vehicles under your care. Basically, it’s a type of coverage that’s best suited for the garage-keeping business.

Risks You’ll Face (And the Coverage You’ll Need)

1). Customer Slip-and-Fall

You know how it goes — oil spills, tools on the floor, or maybe even that slick patch of snow right outside the door. A customer slips and suddenly, you’re facing a potential lawsuit. Yikes! General liability insurance has your back here. It helps cover medical costs or legal fees, so one small accident doesn’t turn into a business-ending disaster.

2). Tools Gone Missing

Ever have a situation where a wrench, tire iron, or maybe even a jack goes “mysteriously missing”? The tools and equipment in your garage aren’t cheap, and losing them — or worse, having them stolen — can really set you back. That’s where a business owner’s policy (BOP) steps in. It covers not just liability, but property loss too. So, if your tools take a walk, you’re not left scrambling to replace them out of pocket.

3). Damage to Customer Vehicles

You’re working on a customer’s car and something goes wrong. Maybe another vehicle bumps into it in the lot, or something falls and dings the paint job. Uh-oh. This is where garage-keepers legal liability comes into play. It’s specifically designed to cover any damage to vehicles that are in your care. So, whether the car’s in the shop or sitting outside waiting to be picked up, you’re covered.

4). Employee Injuries

Running a commercial garage isn’t exactly desk work. Your employees are on their feet, lifting heavy objects, and working with dangerous tools. Accidents happen! Workers’ compensation insurance ensures that if one of your employees gets hurt on the job, their medical bills and a portion of lost wages are covered, and your business isn’t hit with unexpected expenses.

5). Business Shutdowns

Imagine a fire breaks out, or a storm damages your garage, and you have to close for repairs. No income, no customers, but the bills still keep coming. That’s where business interruption insurance steps in like your financial safety net. It helps you pay your bills, keep your business afloat, and even cover the cost of temporarily relocating if needed.

Need Garage Insurance? Let Us Help!

At Avalue Insurance, we understand the unique risks that garage-keepers face. Our team is here to help you get all the coverage you’ll need to keep your business running smoothly. Give us a call at 303-773-3332, shoot us an email at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online! 

Real-Life Lawsuits That Could’ve Been Prevented with General Liability Insurance

Running a business is rewarding, but it also comes with its fair share of risks. One small mishap could turn into a big legal headache, and before you know it, you’re knee-deep in a lawsuit. The good news is, with general liability insurance, you can prevent these incidents from draining your bank account. Here are some real-life lawsuits that show just how important having the right coverage can be!

1). Slip-and-Fall Mishaps

Slip-and-fall lawsuits are one of the most common claims for businesses, and one restaurant learned this the hard way. A customer slipped on a wet floor and suffered a back injury, leading to a lawsuit for $100,000. The customer sought compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and additional costs because they couldn’t work due to the injury. Without general liability insurance, the restaurant would have been on the hook for the entire amount, plus legal fees.

2). Property Damage Fiascos

Imagine running a bustling beauty salon and everything is going great — until one of your new beauticians drops a bottle of nail polish that spills all over a customer’s pricey handbag. That’s exactly what happened to a salon that was then sued by the customer to replace the damaged property.

3). Privacy Violations

Ever shared a before-and-after photo of a project online to show off your great work? Most businesses have. But one home decor business faced an unexpected lawsuit when a client discovered that photos of their remodeled wardrobe had been shared online without permission. The client sued for invasion of privacy, leading to a hefty legal process. General liability insurance can help cover these types of claims, making sure you’re not left financially drained over a misunderstanding​.

4). Product-Related Injuries

A lawn care company thought they were doing their clients a favor by selling an organic pesticide. Unfortunately, a customer accidentally inhaled the product’s vapors and suffered a severe allergic reaction. The customer sued for $100,000 in medical expenses and other damages. Product-related injuries can be devastating for small businesses, but general liability insurance would have stepped in to cover the costs and keep the business afloat​.

5). Copyright Infringement Gone Wrong

It’s easy to get inspired by others, but that inspiration can sometimes cross the line. A personal trainer started calling himself “The Rocker” after a celebrity with a similar name and used a photo of that celebrity in his advertisements without permission. This led to a copyright infringement lawsuit. The trainer’s general liability insurance would cover legal fees and potential settlements in a situation like this, making sure a branding mishap doesn’t bankrupt your business​.

Protect Your Business from the Unexpected

These real-life cases show that accidents, misunderstandings, and mistakes can happen to anyone, no matter how careful you are. Having general liability insurance isn’t just about following regulations — it’s about protecting your business from financial ruin when things don’t go as planned.

Not sure if you’re fully covered? Let us help! At Avalue Insurance, we specialize in helping businesses of all shapes and sizes get the coverage that they’ll need for the road ahead. Give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

In-Office or Remote? Understanding Your Insurance Needs for Both

The debate between remote work and in-office work has been heating up over the past few years. With more businesses shifting to hybrid or fully remote models, many are asking a crucial question: How do insurance needs differ between remote and in-office employees? Many business owners with at-home businesses believe that they don’t need as much coverage as in-office businesses  if any coverage at all! And while that may be partially correct in some cases, the risk of being underinsured is pretty high. So, let’s settle the debate once and for all!

What’s the Difference in Risk?

Remote Work: When employees are working remotely, the types of risks you need to consider are vastly different. For starters, the likelihood of workplace injuries like slips and falls decreases when they’re not navigating office corridors. However, other risks take the spotlight — think cyber security breaches, misuse of company property, or even liability for employees working from a rented space.

If you have a lot of employees working from home, your insurance should address risks like:

Cyber Security Coverage: If an employee’s home Wi-Fi is hacked, sensitive company information could be compromised.

Equipment Coverage: Laptops, tablets, and monitors used at home should be covered in case of damage or theft.

General Liability: What if an employee invites a client to their home office and an accident occurs? It’s rare, but it can happen!

In-Office Work: In contrast, having employees work on-site means you need to focus more on traditional office-related coverage, such as:

Workers’ Compensation: If someone slips on a freshly mopped floor or sustains an injury in the office kitchen, you’ll need coverage to handle those claims.

Property Insurance: This covers office equipment, furniture, and the space itself in case of fire, theft, or other damage.

General Liability Insurance: General liability protects your business from third-party claims like bodily injury or property damage that might occur on your premises. For example, if a client trips in the lobby, your insurance covers their medical costs.

Are Remote Workers Covered Under Standard Business Insurance?

One of the big questions businesses ask is whether traditional business insurance policies extend to remote employees. The answer is: it depends! Standard policies may not cover equipment and activities that take place outside the designated business premises. So, if your team is working remotely, it’s a good idea to review your coverage with your insurance provider and explore add-ons or separate policies tailored to remote work needs.

Hybrid Work: A Happy Medium, or Twice the Headache?

Hybrid work models mean employees split time between home and the office, which can complicate things a bit. You’ll need to ensure that both environments are adequately covered. This might include expanding your existing business policy to protect equipment at multiple locations or adding extra liability coverage for home-based operations.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Whether you’re running a fully remote, in-office, or hybrid team, understanding the unique insurance needs of each environment is crucial. Regularly reviewing and updating your policies will ensure you’re not caught off guard. And remember, just like choosing between office- and home-brewed coffee, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer — only the best option for your unique setup!

Need help finding the right coverage? We can help with that! Reach out to Avalue Insurance today, and let us help you find a solution that works best for you and your business!

Home Insurance Horror Stories and How to Avoid Them

Home insurance isn’t just about peace of mind; it’s about protection. But sometimes, even with insurance, things can go awry in ways you’d never imagine. And with spooky season right around the corner, we figured now would be the perfect time to tell you these home insurance horror stories. Let’s take a look at a few tales of woe that might make you double-check your policies!

The “Where’s My Coverage?” Conundrum

A homeowner discovers a small leak under the sink. No big deal, right? They toss a towel down and forget about it. A few weeks later, that little leak has turned into a moldy nightmare that’s spread to several rooms. When they filed a claim, they were met with a harsh reality: their policy didn’t cover the mold damage because it’s considered a result of neglect. Without mold insurance or regular maintenance, they were on the hook for thousands in repairs.

Avoid the nightmare: Regularly inspect your home for issues, and if you notice something small, fix it immediately! Consider adding extra coverage for things like mold or water damage to avoid being blindsided later.

The “I Didn’t Think That Would Be a Problem” Panic

Another homeowner had a unique collection of rare instruments — violins, pianos, you name it. A freak storm hit and the room where the instruments were kept flooded. Turns out, the homeowner’s policy only covered up to a certain amount for personal belongings, and these high-value items needed to be individually scheduled on the policy. In the end, the insurance payout didn’t come close to covering the cost of the collection.

Avoid the nightmare: If you have valuable items, such as artwork, collectibles, or heirlooms, talk to your insurance agent about adding a rider to your policy to ensure they’re properly covered.

The “Oops, I Didn’t Read the Fine Print” Frustration

This story involves a couple who went all out renovating their home. They were thrilled with the results until an accidental fire destroyed half the kitchen. When they filed the claim, they learned their coverage amount hadn’t been adjusted to account for the increased value of the renovations. As a result, the payout wasn’t enough to restore the space to its former glory. All their hard work — and a significant amount of their savings — went up in smoke.

Avoid the nightmare: Always update your policy when you make major changes to your home, whether it’s a kitchen remodel or adding a deck. That way, your insurance keeps pace with the value of your property.

Speak with a Local Insurance Professional About Your Policies Today

Don’t let the fine print scare you. Let’s review your policy and make sure you’re fully covered before the unexpected happens! At Avalue Insurance, we make it easy to get all the coverage you need at a price you can afford. Contact us today to schedule a policy review or to discuss additional coverage options!

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