7 Businesses that Need Extra Special Insurance

Running a small business can be one of life’s most rewarding challenges. Over time, you work hard to build your business, investing time, money and effort to shape it into a thriving operation. You may be a one-person shop or employ a staff of people.

You’re likely familiar with business insurance, but did you know some businesses — contractors, florists, retailers and more — benefit from additional special types of coverage? Here are seven types of businesses that may have special insurance considerations — and what you should know about caring for your business.

1. Florist or Greenhouse Business Insurance

Does your business deal with flowers or plants? Believe it or not, you might need greenhouse insurance. In addition to clever cards and an assortment of vases, florists generally have a cooler that keeps fresh flowers at an optimal temperature. Likewise, greenhouses can control the climate in their growing environment. 

Another kind of business insurance might be advisable, too, if your business relies on refrigeration or has specific water needs. Consider equipment breakdown coverage, offered as a provision with commercial property coverage. Businesses can also insure against the risks associated with welcoming the public through their doors with general liability insurance. (Both property and liability coverage are available with Farm Bureau’s BusinessMax coverage for your commercial business.)

2. Contractor Insurance 

Contractor insurance can be a vital part of your operation if you work in building or construction. It’s a risky business, especially when you are installing, repairing, building, maintaining and replacing various structures, appliances and systems. In addition, you may have a showroom, office or shop where you run your business.

Contractor coverage covers both the tools and equipment of the trade, as well as the materials, supplies, fixtures and temporary structures. If employees use their own tools to perform work for your business, we have coverage for that, too — and it’s smart to request a certificate of insurance from subcontractors.

3. Insurance for Home-Based Businesses

Do your business and your home share an address? You can’t just rely on one insurance policy. You need to protect them both. Your standard homeowners policy will protect you if your home is damaged, but it won’t cover everything related to your business. Home-based business insurance can help you close those gaps, making sure both sides of your life are covered.

4. Retail Store Insurance Coverage

From large shopping centers to specialized boutiques, all sizes of retail locations have concerns in common, including data breaches, customer falls, theft and fire. These are exactly the kinds of covered events that can disrupt your operation. With customized business liability coverage, you can rest assured that your retail business is covered if something happens in your store or online. Don’t leave your business unprotected.

5. Service-Based Business 

If you are in the business of providing service to your customers, whether plumbing, handyman repairs, electrical services or cleaning, you have unique coverage needs. These may include theft, non-owned auto coverage and much more. You know your business and your employees best — look into business vehicle and business liability policies that cover the areas where you need it most.

6. Property Insurance For Habitational Business

If you own an apartment building or complex, your business could benefit from coverage to protect your building against fire, equipment breakdown and boiler damage. Protect yourself from weather-related risks with property coverage. In addition, you may also benefit from general liability coverage to protect against the cost of injuries that occur due to the actions of tenants or others on the property. It’s an important part of protecting your business income and long-term investment. 

7. Main Street or Small Business Protection

Despite your best efforts to provide a safe and productive work environment, employers could be at risk for employment claims. Employment claims could range from sexual harassment to discrimination and wrongful termination, any of which could derail everything you have worked hard for. Employment practices liability insurance (a part of workers compensation coverage) is designed to protect business owners from the risk of employing others. 

Don’t Do Business Without Coverage

As a business owner, you have a lot on your plate already. Whether you have a storefront, a home office or a farm or ranch, protect your livelihood with the right insurance. Schedule a SuperCheck with your Farm Bureau agent to ensure you have the right amount of coverage for your business.