Insights

What Insurance Do Publishers Need?
What Insurance Do Publishers Need? 1000 638 James Hallam

If you are involved in any kind of publishing, whether it is books, newspapers, magazines, or digital publishing, then you need specialist insurance to cover you for the unique risks you face in your business.

In this post we will outline the key insurance products that publishers should consider, including:

  • Professional indemnity insurance
  • Public and employers liability insurance
  • Buildings and contents insurance
  • Cyber insurance

Professional Indemnity Insurance For Publishers

As a publisher, many people will rely on you for your professional advice and expertise. If any of your clients ever experience financial loss having followed your advice, they may make a claim against you. You may also face claims from others with allegations of:

  • Negligence
  • Errors or omissions
  • Copyright infringement
  • Breach of contract

In this case, professional indemnity insurance can cover any legal fees, along with any compensation, that may be due. In this way, you can protect yourself against potentially significant losses, along with reputational damages that may arise as a result of the claim.

Public and Employer’s Liability Insurance

Employer’s liability insurance is a legal obligation if you employ any staff. This will cover your employees for any accidents and injuries they may experience while working for you.

Public liability insurance offers similar cover, but for members of the public who may be visiting your premises – whether they are existing or potential clients, tradespeople, delivery drivers, or others.

Public liability can also cover potential damages to third party property outside of the workplace – such as if you accidentally spill coffee on a client’s computer while visiting their premises, or you accidentally injure an attendee at a book launch or other event.

Product liability insurance may also be cover publishers wish to get, which could cover the costs associated with product recalls due to printing errors and other mistakes.

Buildings and Contents Insurance For Publishers

Buildings insurance can cover your business premises for damages caused by fire, theft, flood, vandalism, and more.

Contents insurance can cover your fixtures, fittings, and furniture for such losses, along with the equipment you use to do your job, including your laptops and smartphones.

If an incident such as a fire or a flood temporarily prevents you from operating your publishing business, then business interruption insurance can cover all of your overheads until you are able to get back on your feet.

Cyber Insurance For Publishers

Cybercrime is a real risk for all businesses. A publishing firm might be a prime target for a cyberattack, as cybercriminals know how much sensitive data you store on your systems. Plus, they might think of you as an easy target, as they might think you are unlikely to have taken any steps to secure your systems.

Cyber insurance cannot protect you against a cyberattack, but it can at least help you respond effectively. This specialist insurance can cover all of the costs associated with responding to a data breach, including:

  • Recovering your data
  • Securing your system
  • Notifying any affected third parties

Get Specialist Publishers Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your publishing business.

We can advise you on all of the risks you face as a professional publisher, and we can help you get the specialist cover you need at a competitive price.

Find out how we can help you today.

 

Beach Hut Buying Guide for 2025
Beach Hut Buying Guide for 2025 1000 667 James Hallam

Growing numbers of Brits are buying beach huts across the country. If you are looking to buy your first beach hut, this post will provide a step-by-step guide to the process, from your initial research to the final sale.

Research Your Beach Hut Location

Where do you want your beach hut to be based? Somewhere close to you, so that you can escape to it every weekend throughout the summer? Or somewhere further away, so that you can base your full family holiday around your beach hut?

One thing to consider is that the prices of beach huts will vary across the country. So it might be worth deciding your budget before you pick your location.

Make a shortlist of possible locations, and be sure to spend some time in each location before you make any final decisions. Take in the local amenities, and try to get a feel for the atmosphere and the community in the area.

Finally, contact the local council. Certain councils might impose certain restrictions on beach hut ownership, and you may have to get their permission before you make any changes to the hut.

Should You Buy a Freehold or Leasehold Beach Hut?

You may have to choose between a freehold or a leasehold beach hut:

  • Freehold – You own both the structure and the land it is built on. This would give you the freedom to do essentially anything with the hut. However, freehold beach huts tend to be expensive, and comparatively rare.
  • Leasehold – These are managed by local councils, and there are often tight restrictions on how you can use the hut, along with lengthy waiting lists to get a hut. Some councils only allow local residents to purchase their leasehold beach huts, but others will be a bit more flexible. The upside is that leasehold beach huts tend to be a lot cheaper than freehold beach huts.

Choose Your Hut

Once you have a budget and a location in mind, it is time to choose your beach hut.

If you want to get a leasehold beach hut, you will have to purchase it through the local council.

If you want to buy a freehold beach hut, you will have to do so through other channels, such as:

  • Find an estate agent that specialises in beach huts in your target area
  • Get in touch with the local beach hut association
  • Check online marketplaces, such as Facebook and eBay
  • Look at local classified ads in newspapers and newsagents

Be sure to view any potential hut before you agree to buy it. Get an idea of its condition, and think about whether you would need to do any work before you could start using the hut. Also think about how close it is to the nearest facilities and amenities. And perhaps most important of all, does it have a good view?

Finalising the Sale

If you are looking to purchase a leasehold beach hut, then you will pay whatever price the council wants you to pay.

But if you are looking to buy a freehold beach hut, you might be able to make an offer. Just remember that the current owner might have a lot of interest in their hut, so they may be considering multiple offers alongside yours.

If they accept your offer, you can then agree on the terms of your sale. This mainly means agreeing on a completion date, but you may also be able to agree on including certain items in the sale, such as fixtures, fittings, and furniture.

It may be useful to hire a solicitor to ensure that all of the paperwork is in order, and that you are not overlooking anything major. After this, it will just be a case of making the payment on your agreed terms, and getting all the documents and the keys on your completion date.

Taking Care Of Your Beach Hut

Once you have bought your beach hut, you will have to commit to ongoing maintenance. There are a number of reasons to do this:

  • It will keep your beach hut in good condition, ensuring that it will always remain a pleasant place to spend time.
  • It will help to protect your beach hut from the elements. A fresh coat of paint now and then can form an effective barrier against wind and rain over the winter.
  • Thieves and vandals may be more likely to target beaten and weathered beach huts. Keep yours in good condition and it might deter them.
  • Your insurer may require you to perform certain maintenance as part of your beach hut insurance

Read our essential guide to beach hut maintenance.

Get The Right Cover For Your Beach Hut

Just like any investment, it is a good idea to get adequate insurance cover for your beach hut.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in getting you the cover you need at a competitive price.

We will ensure you get full cover for your beach hut, no matter its size or location, and no matter how you use it.

Learn more about our specialist beach hut insurance and get a free quote today.

 

Do You Pay Council Tax on Unoccupied Properties?
Do You Pay Council Tax on Unoccupied Properties? 1000 867 James Hallam

In most cases, you have to pay council tax on every property you own, even if the property is currently empty or unoccupied. However, depending on your local council, you may be able to get a discount on council tax for any unoccupied properties you own.

What is an Unoccupied Property?

Usually, when we talk about empty or unoccupied properties, we might be referring to:

  • Homes that have been left vacant after the owner passes away.
  • Rental properties that do not currently have any tenants. This might include commercial properties as well as homes.
  • Second homes and holiday homes, which are only occupied at certain times of the year.

Do You Pay Council Tax on Unoccupied Properties?

Yes, you usually have to pay council tax on all properties you own or rent, even if they do not currently have anyone occupying them.

If your property is classed as a “second home”, then you may have to pay a second home premium, which can be up to two times the ordinary council tax rate.

If your property is empty for a long period of time, your council maybe be able to charge you up to 300% on top of the standard council tax rate.

It all depends on the local council. For more information, contact your local council to see what rates apply in your area. You may also be able to apply for a discount.

Unoccupied Property Council Tax Exemptions

First, certain individuals are exempt – or “disregarded” – from paying council tax. You must apply for exemption even if you meet the criteria. Head here for a full list of people who are eligible for council tax exemption.

Beyond this, there are permanent exemptions for certain types of second homes and empty properties:

  • If the property is an annex – that is, it forms part of the same property, and is being used as part of the main residence.
  • If the property is supplied by your employer to use as accommodation when working in a different area.
  • If certain local planning restrictions mean that you cannot use the property as a permanent residence.
  • The property is currently uninhabitable due to major repairs or renovations. In this case, you may have to supply evidence of the property’s condition, along with a timeline for the work, to qualify for discount or exemption.

Also, you can get a 12 month exemption from paying the second home premium if:

  • You are currently marketing the property for sale or to rent.
  • You have received a grant of probate for the property, and are therefore managing it as part of your duty as a will’s executor.

Please note that these exemptions, whether they are temporary or permanent, only apply to the second home premium. You may still have to pay the standard council tax rate, even if you meet the criteria.

Long-Term Empty Property Council Tax Premiums

Some councils will apply significant premiums if a property is left empty for a long-term period:

  • If the property is left empty for two years, you may have to pay double the standard rate.
  • After five years, you may have to pay triple the standard rate.
  • After 10 years, you may have to pay quadruple the standard rate.

This is why it is a good idea to sell or lease properties as quickly as possible. If you are a landlord and you are struggling to find suitable tenants, enlisting a letting agent could help you fill the property quicker so as to avoid these hefty premiums.

You may also be able to avoid these premiums through converting the property for commercial use. Commercial buildings may be subject to business rates rather than council tax, for which you may be able to get some tax relief.

How to Keep Your Empty Property Safe

Empty properties are more vulnerable to theft and vandalism. Plus, if anything goes wrong in the property, if there is nobody around to address the issue, even a small problem could quickly escalate into a full scale disaster. A small leak, for example, could spiral into a major escape of water situation.

No matter what your circumstances are, there are certain steps you should take to keep your empty property safe:

  • Invest in extra security, such as CCTV, alarms, and locks.
  • Use timers and motion-activated lights to make it look like someone is home.
  • Check on the property as often as possible, to look for any potential issues. You could also collect accumulating mail and take care of the bins, again to make it look like the home is occupied.
  • Appoint someone to check on your property for you, if you can’t. Some organisations offer dedicated property guardian schemes for this very purpose.
  • Consider turning the utilities off whenever you are not using the property. There may be risks associated with this, though – such as no power to supply your security systems, and a lack of heating leading to frozen pipes in the winter. Be sure to weigh up the pros and cons first.
  • Get specialist insurance cover. Most home insurance properties will only cover occupied homes. Depending on your circumstances, you may have to get dedicated probate home insurance, second home insurance, holiday home insurance, or home renovation insurance.

Specialist Unoccupied Home Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your property at a competitive price.

We can help you get dedicated insurance to cover your unoccupied property, no matter what your specific personal circumstances are. We can also advise you on steps you can take to keep your property safe and secure.

Learn more about our insurance services and get a free quote today.

Safety Tips For Navigating Crowded Waterways
Safety Tips For Navigating Crowded Waterways 1000 667 James Hallam

UK waterways can get crowded, especially during the busy summer months.

In this post we will discuss some safety tips for navigating crowded waterways during high season, to help you avoid stress, arguments, and potential damages to your boat and others.

Who Has Right of Way on UK Waterways?

Which Side To Pass Other Boats
On UK waterways, you should navigate on the right (starboard) side, as opposed to the left (port) side, as you would on UK roads.

Wind-powered Boats vs. Engines
There are also certain international regulations determining what types of vessels have right of way on the water. Generally speaking, wind-powered boats have right of way over boats powered by engines, due to their comparatively limited manoeuvrability.

Large Vessels vs Smaller Vessels
Larger vessels also tend to take priority over smaller vessels, mainly because smaller vessels can easily move around larger vessels, which may struggle to correct course.

However, these regulations largely apply to vessels at sea. Local authorities may set their own regulations concerning right of way, and other issues. So before you use any waterways, make sure you familiarise yourself with the local laws.

Stand-On and Give-Way

Whenever two or more vessels encounter each other on any waterway, it is important to consider the “stand-on” vs. “give-way” concept:

  • The stand-on vessel should maintain its speed, and its course.
  • The give-way vessel should adjust its speed and course accordingly so as to avoid a collision.

As we mentioned above, different types of vessels may take priority on waterways. As a general rule of thumb, larger vessels, and those powered solely by wind, should be viewed as stand-on vessels, as it will be harder for such boats to alter their course. Meanwhile, smaller vessels, and those powered by engines, will be viewed as give-way vessels, as they will find it easier to manoeuvre.

But once again, certain waterways may impose their own regulations. For example, all boats may be required to give priority to commercial vessels and local trip boats. And if a waterway is used for certain types of water sports, then this activity may take priority over other types of boating.

Safety and Courtesy for Passing Other Vessels

What if you encounter a similar type of boat to yours? Who will take priority then? For example, what happens when two canalboats need to pass on a waterway?

Technically, neither boat will have priority in this situation. So instead of thinking about right of way, instead aim to follow some general safety and courtesy procedures:

  • Keep your distance from all other boats. Be aware of your boat’s capabilities, and always give yourself enough space and time to react to potential collisions.
  • Follow any speed restrictions on the waterways, and try to keep your speed consistent so that other waterway users can anticipate your actions.
  • If you find yourself on a narrow or crowded waterway, slow down and try to avoid making any abrupt movements.
  • Keep a careful lookout for particularly vulnerable vessels and individuals on the waterway, such as swimmers, canoes, and kayaks.
  • Stick to any designated channels or courses for your particular vessel, as this can help to avoid any unexpected encounters. Also try to stick to one side of the waterway, so that other vessels can easily pass on the other side.
  • Plot your course carefully to avoid any potentially unsuitable or overcrowded channels, and to prevent sudden course changes.
  • Try to stay on your course, and try to avoid U-turns, as these can quickly create bottlenecks and other problems.

Understanding the Water

It is also important to understand the specific nature of the water you are sailing on.

If you are boating on river, a lake, or at sea, then you might have more room to manoeuvre. However, you will also have currents to contend with, and you may sometimes have to deal with turbulent waters. These factors will affect your turning circle, and potentially your speed.

On tidal waters, navigation lights may also be compulsory, so that you can easily communicate your intentions to other vessels.

If you are boating on a marine, or canal, then you may not have to deal with tides, currents, and waves. However, you may have to contend with narrower channels, and potentially more congestion.

Prepare For Emergencies

No matter what sort of waterway you are on, it is important to ensure your vessel is equipped with all of the essential safety equipment in case of emergencies.

You will need a suitable anchor and chain, to stop yourself from drifting in the event of engine failure. Make sure everyone onboard has a life jacket, or access to a life ring or life buoy. Also ensure that everyone has a basic understanding of water safety, and on what to do in case of emergency.

Make sure you have enough fuel for every journey you undertake, to avoid getting stranded. It may also be a good idea to pack flares, so that you can signal to other boats, or a VHF radio to communicate with coastguards and other emergency services.

Get The Right Cover For Your Boat This Summer

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your boat for potential collisions and other emergencies all year round.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

Avoiding Overheating Boat Engine and Equipment Failure in the Summer
Avoiding Overheating Boat Engine and Equipment Failure in the Summer 1000 667 James Hallam

An overheating boat engine is one of the biggest risks associated with the summer season. In this post we will discuss how you can maintain your boat engine during the summer, with tips on what you should do if your engine starts overheating.

What Causes Engine Overheating?

Boat engines can overheat at any time of the year, but overheating is more likely in the summer. This is because:

  • Strain on the engine: You are more likely to use your boat for extended periods over the summer, and with shorter breaks between each use. Over time, this can put a strain on the engine and its components.
  • High Temperatures: Higher temperatures in the summer months can mean that the engine’s cooling systems have to work harder, which can eventually make them less effective.
  • Shallow waters: The specific waters in which you use your boat can also increase the risks of your engine overheating. Shallow waters, for example, can cause sediment to enter your engine’s cooling systems, which can affect their performance. Plus, if there is a lot of debris or vegetation about, it can clog your engine’s water intake, which can also affect the effectiveness of your cooling system.
  • Saltwater: If you take your vessel out to sea, saltwater can, over time, block your engines cooling systems, which can eventually lead to overheating.

Understanding Your Engine And Cooling System

Getting to know your engine and cooling system is key to understanding and preventing overheating.

Outboard engines
These are water-cooled. The engine draws in water through an inlet before discharging it from the tell-tale. If the cooling system is operating, there should be a small stream of water emanating from the tell-tale while the engine is running.

Inboard engines and stern drive engines
Like cars and other road vehicles, these may rely on engine coolant, along with a heat exchanger that relies on a flow of raw water to keep cool. Or, they might be entirely water-cooled, via thru-hull fittings or a special strainer for saltwater.

Air-cooled engines
Certain smaller outboard engines are air-cooled, rather than water-cooled. The engines feature passages allowing for a flow of air. Excessive loads or blockages can place a strain on these systems.

How To Tell If Your Engine is Overheating

There are some obvious signs that your engine is overheating:

  • Steam might start emanating from the engine compartment.
  • A strong smell of burning.
  • The engine may sound strained.
  • Temperature gauge rising into the red.

Depending on the specific type of engine your boat uses, there might be other early warning signs that things are starting to overheat. If you have a water-cooled system, for instance, look out for a reduced flow from the system’s tell-tale. Some engines will display warning lights if the coolant engines are running too low. And most engines will experience performance issues if they get too hot.

What To Do If Your Engine Starts Overheating

  • Turn off your engine immediately. Set the throttle to idle, and stop wherever it is safe to do so. The longer you run an overheating engine, the worse the damage will be, and the more the repairs will cost you.
  • Give the engine at least 30 minutes to cool.
  • Check the system for faults. Pay particular attention to the coolant levels, and top them up if need be. Also check for blockages wherever they may develop, such as in the outboard water intakes, the thru-hull fittings, or the air intakes.
  • Aim to get your engine system fully inspected and, if necessary, fully serviced before you take to the water again. You should certainly get professional help if your engine will not start again after overheating, or if you notice any visible signs of damage to the cooling system.

How to Prevent Engine Overheating

Regular maintenance will help you prevent your engine overheating.

Read the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on regular engine maintenance, and make sure you carry essential maintenance equipment, and spare parts as necessary. Regularly monitor your engine’s coolant levels, and keep an eye on the temperature gauges whenever you are running your boat.

Regular cleaning can also help prevent engine overheating, as it can prevent blockages from developing. For seagoing vessels, you should regularly flush your cooling system to remove any blockages caused by saltwater.

Be sure to read our full guide to mid-season boat checks and maintenance that will help keep your boat in full working order throughout the summer and beyond.

Get The Right Cover For Your Boat This Summer

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your boat all year round.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

Beach Hut Maintenance Checklist for the Summer
Beach Hut Maintenance Checklist for the Summer 1000 667 James Hallam

Regular maintenance will keep your beach hut clean and pleasant all year round. Maintenance can also help to protect your beach hut from the elements, which is why some insurers specify how you should care for your beach hut as a requirement of their beach hut insurance policies.

In this post we will discuss an essential beach hut maintenance for the summer, which will help you enjoy your hut throughout the winter while keeping it safe through the colder months of the year.

Beach Hut Summer Maintenance For the Beginning of the Season

If you’re using your beach hut for the first time since last year, you might find that you need to do some essential maintenance before you can use your hut this summer:

  • Thoroughly clean your hut both inside and out. Sweep out any sand that may have accumulated, dust all the surfaces, and give the walls a scrub.
  • Open the doors along with any windows to air out your hut, and to help prevent mould and mildew.
  • Oil any hinges to help prevent rust. Also look for any signs of rust and corrosion on metal surfaces, and apply an anti-rust coating if necessary.
  • Consider decluttering your hut. Are there any items you don’t use, or don’t need, anymore? Is there anything you need to repair or replace?
  • If your hut has an outdoor deck, apply a fresh coat of wood stain or sealer.

Beach Hut Safety Checks For Summer

  • Check that all of the hut’s locks work, and replace or repair any components as necessary.
  • Look for any loose components and aim to get them repaired as soon as possible.
  • Consider stocking your hut with essential safety equipment, including sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher.
  • Consider installing a smoke alarm, and even a burglar alarm, to address the risks of fires or break-ins.

How Often Should I Repaint My Beach Hut?

If possible, give your hut a fresh coat of paint once a year – ideally in spring, before the summer season starts.

Beach huts can take a battering over the winter, as the temperatures drop and the likelihood of severe weather increases. But all year round, salty air can affect any paint job.

Regularly painting your beach hut will help keep it looking and feeling fresh, while also offering ongoing protection against the elements. Plus, thieves and vandals may be less likely to target a hut that looks colourful and pristine, as it can suggest that the hut is regularly used and regularly monitored.

Just note that the local council may set certain requirements for the colours you can use for your hut.

As well as refreshing your hut with a coat or two of paint, you could also look for ways to revitalise the interior. This could be with a new rug, new cushions, or new curtains.

Specialist Beach Hut Insurance From James Hallam

As we mentioned above, you may be required to carry out certain annual maintenance tasks as part of your beach hut insurance.

The summer might be a good opportunity to review your beach hut insurance. Are you getting all the cover you need, at a best price?

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your beach hut at a competitive price.

We provide a specialist beach hut insurance scheme and are experts in this market. We will ensure you get full cover for your beach hut, no matter its size or location, and no matter how you use it.

Learn more about our specialist beach hut insurance and get a free quote today.

 

How Do I Insure an Unoccupied Property?
How Do I Insure an Unoccupied Property? 1000 667 James Hallam

Most home insurance policies will only cover “occupied” properties. If a property is unoccupied for a certain period of time, the policy may no longer provide the cover you need.

In this post we will discuss how you can insure an unoccupied property, to give you peace of mind that you will be fully covered even when there is nobody currently occupying the property.

Unoccupied Property vs. Vacant Property

An unoccupied property is one that was previously inhabited, but which does not currently have any inhabitants. This could be as a result of a homeowner passing away.

A “vacant” property, is a property that is completely empty with no current occupants. For example, a new build home that is yet to be bought, or a rental property that is seeking tenants, will be classed as a “vacant” property rather than an “unoccupied” property.

Read our full guide to the difference between unoccupied and vacant properties.

When Does a Property Become Unoccupied?

As we mentioned above, a property might become unoccupied when its owner passes away, and when there is nobody else currently living at the house.

Yet insurers will also consider a property to be unoccupied if it is left empty for a certain period of time. This could be as little as 30 consecutive days.

For this reason, if you have a second home that you only use at certain times of the year, or if you leave your main property for an extended period, your property may eventually be considered “unoccupied”. At this point, your home insurance will no longer cover you.

How Do I Insure an Unoccupied Property?

You can get specialist unoccupied home insurance if your property will be unoccupied for an extended period of time, for reasons such as:

  • You are travelling for an extended period, or you need long-term residential healthcare.
  • You are moving in with your partner, but you have not yet sold your own home.
  • When selling your home, or getting renovations done, you choose to live elsewhere.
  • You buy a new home, but you are unable to move into it for the time being.
  • You own a second home or holiday home, which you only use for certain months of the year.

What If My Property Will Be Unoccupied for Not Much Longer Than 30 Days?

If you will be leaving your home unoccupied for a shorter period of time – longer than 30 days, but not so long as to justify a dedicated unoccupied home insurance policy – then you may be able to get an extension on your current policy’s absence period. Contact your insurer, or check your policy wording, for more information.

What Does Unoccupied Home Insurance Cover?

Unoccupied home insurance will usually offer the same cover as you would get with a standard home insurance policy. However, there may be some exceptions to the cover.

For example, if you will be leaving your home unoccupied while renovations take place, then unoccupied home insurance may not cover you for damages that arise from the renovations, or for damages caused by contractors.

And while unoccupied home insurance will cover you for break-ins and theft, it may not cover you for “unforced entry”. So if you accidentally leave a window or door open, you will not be able to claim for any resulting theft.

Probate Home Insurance

When someone passes away, if they leave a will, an executor will work to ensure that the deceased’s estate is settled. This process is known as probate.

If there is any property in the will, the executor may choose to sell it. Alternatively, the will may stipulate that a relative, or another beneficiary, shall inherit the house.

In any case, nothing can proceed until the probate process is complete. This means that the property may remain unoccupied for as long as it takes to complete probate. As the entire process can take up to a year, this can cause some issues with the home insurance.

A dedicated probate home insurance property can cover the unoccupied property throughout the probate process. The policy might specify that you take certain steps to secure the property throughout the process, and it may also require you to periodically check on the property.

Get Specialist Insurance For Your Unoccupied Property From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your property.

Whether you need to cover a property throughout the probate process, or you need to dedicated cover for your property throughout an extended period of absence, we can help you get the specialist cover you need at a competitive price. We can also help you secure comprehensive cover for a second home or a holiday home.

Learn more about our expert private insurance services here.

 

How to Stop Shoplifters and Prevent Theft From Shops
How to Stop Shoplifters and Prevent Theft From Shops 1000 667 James Hallam

We recently published a guide to creating and implanting shoplifting policies and procedures for your retail business.

In this post we will share some additional practical tips to help you reduce shoplifting from your store.

How to Reduce Shoplifting In Store

Perform Regular Stock Checks

Regular stock checks will help you understand the scale of shoplifting in your store. They may also help you to identify which products in your store thieves are most likely to target. If you understand this, then you will know where to prioritise your anti-theft measures.

Consider Your Store Layout

  • Place the till as close to the door as possible. This way, no potential thieves will be able to enter or leave the store unobserved.
  • Keep your layout as simple and straightforward as possible. This will eliminate any blindspots where thieves could operate.
  • Make sure any high value items, or any items that you think thieves are most likely to target, are within sight of the main till.
  • You could also install security mirrors to let your staff see as much of the store as possible without leaving the till area.

Security Features

  • Get CCTV coverage for your store’s front entrance, for the till area, for your stock rooms, and for any areas where you store or display high value items.
  • Place signs notifying visitors that you have CCTV in place. This can help deter opportunistic thieves.
  • Consider installing facial recognition software, which could help you identify repeat offenders, and take appropriate action.
  • Consider placing your most valuable stock in locked cabinets, or behind the till. This way, customers will have to ask staff directly to view them.
  • Use electronic article surveillance (EAS) tags, and other anti-theft devices, which can deter potential thieves while also alerting you immediately to any attempted theft.

Staff Interactions and Customer Service

Your staff are your first line of defence against shoplifters. They can help identify and report instances of shoplifting, and they may even be able to prevent certain thefts from taking place. Staff safety should remain a priority, though. You should never expect your staff to expose themselves to any unnecessary risk.

Members of staff could use customer service techniques to deter thieves. If they notice a customer acting suspiciously, they could approach them and ask if they can be of any assistance. This will let the potential thief know that their actions have been noted, which might make them reconsider the theft.

Think about your staffing levels, too. Thieves often take advantage of busy periods, as they know that when the majority of staff are busy, their crimes will go unobserved. It is also common for thieves to work in pairs, with one distracting your staff while the other lifts items, out of sight. So, take note of your busy times and schedule shifts accordingly. And if possible, try to ensure that nobody ever has to work a shift alone.

Get The Right Insurance For Your Retail Store

Specialist retail shop insurance can help protect your store from many of the risks you face. A comprehensive policy may not prevent shoplifting, but it can give you the cover you need to bounce back from any major disruptions or disasters.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your store. We can help you get specialist retail shop insurance, which can help your business bounce back from any significant losses.

Find out how we can help your shop today.

What Insurance Do 24 Hour Gyms Need?
What Insurance Do 24 Hour Gyms Need? 1000 666 James Hallam

Gyms face a number of risks that many other businesses will never have to think about. For 24 hour gyms, these risks can be particularly pronounced.

In this post we will outline the insurance products you should consider if you are running a 24 hour gym.

What Insurance Do 24 Hour Gyms Need, By Law?

If you have any employees, then you have a legal obligation to get employer’s liability insurance. This covers your staff for any accidents and injuries they may sustain in their line of work.

However, some 24 hour gyms run unsupervised round the clock. In this case, you may not have the legal requirement to get employer’s liability insurance.

Yet even if you have no legal responsibilities to get cover, you should still consider getting comprehensive insurance for your 24 hour gym. If anything goes wrong, you could incur significant costs. And without adequate cover, you will be responsible for meeting these costs yourself.

Common Risks For 24 Hour Gyms

Some 24 hour gyms are unsupervised and unattended throughout the night. Others are unsupervised 24/7. This can expose the gym to a number of risks:

  • Thieves or vandals could target the gym when they know there are no staff on the premises. They could cause thousands of pounds worth of damages, or steal a large amount of valuable equipment.
  • A customer could injure themselves on the premises. If this injury was caused by faulty equipment, they may make a claim of negligence against you.
  • Fire, flood, theft, or a similar occurrence could temporarily prevent access to your gym, forcing you to close. If you are open round the clock, every hour your gym is closed will eat into your profits. Some members may request refunds, too, if they cannot access your gym when they need to.

Reducing Risks for 24 Hour Gyms

You will need to find ways to keep your business and your customers safe for any period during which your gym is unsupervised. Security systems, remote support systems, ongoing cleaning, maintenance, and repairs, along with thorough onboarding processes for both staff and members can help reduce some of the above risks from occurring.

But if something does go wrong, the right insurance can cover you for any losses you may experience, or costs you may incur.

What Insurance Do 24 Hour Gyms Need?

Public Liability Insurance

This will cover your members, as well as any other members of the public, for any accidents and injuries they may sustain while using your gym, as well as any damage to their property. If they make a claim of negligence against you, your liability insurance can cover your legal fees, as well as any compensation that may be due.

Buildings and Contents Insurance

You may be required to get buildings insurance as part of your leasing agreement. But even if not, this is essential cover to consider. It can cover you for the risk of damage from fire, flooding, break-ins, and vandalism.

Contents insurance, on the other hand, can cover your gym equipment for loss, theft, or damage. Contents insurance can also cover any additional fixtures, fittings, or furniture, whether they are located inside or outside your gym.

Business Interruption Insurance

As we mentioned above, if you are temporarily unable to open your gym, you may incur significant costs through lost income, and as a result of refund requests from your members. Business interruption insurance can cover any loss of profit you might experience if you need to close your premises due to an unexpected event.

Get Specialist 24 Hour Gym Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with access to a hand-picked selection of A-rated insurance providers. We can help you understand the unique risks you face as a 24 hour gym, and we can also tailor a comprehensive insurance package to cover you for these risks at the best price.

Find out how we can help you today.

 

How Much is Restaurant Insurance in the UK?
How Much is Restaurant Insurance in the UK? 1000 667 James Hallam

In this post we will outline the numerous factors that can affect the amount you pay for restaurant insurance in the UK, to give you a general idea of how much you might pay for your policy.

What is the Average Cost of Restaurant Insurance in the UK?

So many factors can affect the cost of restaurant insurance that, rather than considering ballpark figures, it is much better to get a quote of your own.

Depending on your unique situation, you could pay as little as £500 a year for your restaurant insurance. However, many restaurants will pay much more for their cover, potentially up to £3,500 to £4,000 a year.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Restaurant Insurance?

  • Your location – Some areas have higher crime rates than others, which can affect your premiums. You may also pay higher premiums if your restaurant is located on a floodplain.
  • Your size – The bigger your restaurant, then the more customers you will serve, and the more you will pay for cover. Your annual turnover can also affect the price you pay for your restaurant insurance.
  • The cover you get – When taking out restaurant insurance, you may be able to choose exactly what sort of cover you get. The broader the cover you choose, the more you will pay.
  • The liability you choose – When taking out your policy, you may also be able to specify the amount of cover you get. You can set a cash value for the maximum amount of buildings cover you receive, for example. This too can affect the price of your policy.

What Does Restaurant Insurance Cover?

A restaurant insurance policy can provide the following core areas of cover:

  • Public liability insurance – To cover your customers and other members of the public for any accidents, illnesses, or injuries that may take place while they are on your premises.
  • Employer’s liability insurance – To provide the same sort of cover, but for your staff. Please note that, if you employ any staff, you have a legal duty to get employer’s liability insurance.
  • Buildings insurance – To cover your restaurant premises against damage from fire, flood, vandalism, and break-ins.
  • Contents insurance – To cover your stock, your equipment, and any fixtures, fittings, and furnishings for loss, theft, or damage.
  • Product liability insurance – This can cover cases of food poisoning or other illnesses that may arise from food or drink you serve on your premises.

How To Reduce The Cost Of Your Restaurant Insurance

  • Staff training – Regular staff training can reduce accidents, which could help to lower your premiums.
  • Safety and security features – Install locks, CCTV, and alarms to help prevent theft. Smoke alarms and sprinklers can help prevent the spread of fires.
  • Choose your cover carefully – If you get less comprehensive cover, or specify lower cover limits, then you can save money on the price of your premium. Take care though, as if you ever need to make a claim on your policy, limited cover could leave you out of pocket.
  • Compare quotes – Not all insurers will charge the same for cover. Get a few quotes for your restaurant insurance, but do not be tempted to simply choose the cheapest cover. The most important thing is that you get the cover you need.
  • Use an insurance broker – An insurance broker will take the time to understand your restaurant and your insurance requirements. They can then help you get cover that meets all of your needs, including your budget.

Get Specialist Restaurant Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your restaurant.

We can help you get the cover you need at a truly competitive price. We will ensure that there are no risky gaps in your cover, and that you are not paying excessively for cover you may never need.

Learn more about our specialist insurance services here.

 

 

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