John B Wright Blog

The October 29 snowstorm in New Jersey had a tragic impact on the region, with 11 lives lost. There was also damage to a number of homes and businesses. Should you have business insurance, NJ disasters such as these are generally included in your policies as a covered ‘peril’. It’s usually standard practice that items or dwellings damaged by snow, winds, hail and freezing weather will be financially protected for those with insurance in place.

Damage from the weight of ice or snow, from a fallen object such as a tree branch and from frozen pipes or burst plumbing are commonly included in both business and home policies. Your insurance should cover damage to the building itself, your contents, business equipment, furniture, machinery and other business items that might have been smashed, broken or otherwise destroyed.

It’s always advisable to take precautions. These include keeping shrubs and trees trimmed near your building so that frozen branches aren’t a problem, ensuring gutters remain clear to prevent blocked drains due to frozen debris and keeping heating at 65 degrees or higher to help prevent frozen pipes. You might also install an emergency pressure valve in your hot water system (designed to prevent pipes from bursting when there is a build-up of pressure) and at the first indication that your pipes may be frozen, shut off the water and contact an emergency plumber.
 
Be sure to regularly review your business insurance. NJ insurance agents are able to offer information and answer any queries you might have on your business policies.
 

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