Across Australia many people slow down work and head away between December and January. For business owners this often means offices, warehouses and shops sitting empty. A small amount of planning before you leave can reduce incidents and help your insurance policies respond as expected.
Minimise risks while your business is closed
Recent data from NRMA Insurance shows home theft claims rise by about 40 percent in summer, with January the peak month for break ins.
For many PSC clients, the main risks while premises are shut are theft, storm and water damage, and cyber incidents. Helpful actions include:
Review locks, alarms, cameras and lighting, especially rear entries and yards.
Move high value stock and portable equipment out of sight or into a locked room or cage.
Back up critical business data and check that backups can be restored.
Turn off non essential appliances to reduce fire and power surge risks.
Cyber threats can also increase when staff are away. Simple controls such as multi factor authentication, strong passwords and regular software updates are widely recommended by security agencies and insurers. Limiting remote access over the break to people who genuinely need it can reduce the chance of unwanted access.
Before you close, check that your business insurance reflects your current situation. If you have added stock for Christmas trading or purchased new equipment, speak with your broker about sums insured and any conditions that may apply while premises are unoccupied.
Secure your home and protect your holiday
Empty homes are a known target over the festive period.
Simple steps make a real difference:
Lock all doors and windows and set your alarm if you have one.
Ask a neighbour or friend to collect mail, put bins out and keep an eye on the property.
Use timer switches on lights so the home looks lived in.
Secure sheds, garages and any vehicles left on site.
Avoid posting real time holiday updates on social media.
It is also important to think about how long you will be away. Many insurers treat a home as “unoccupied” after a set period, often around 60 days, which can change how a policy responds or add extra excesses if you have not let your insurer know. If you plan a long trip, check the Product Disclosure Statement and speak with your broker about any requirements, such as having someone inspect the property regularly.
When travelling, the Australian Government’s Smartraveller service advises that travel insurance is as essential as a passport for overseas trips. A suitable policy can help with medical costs, cancellations, lost luggage and theft of personal items. Before you go, confirm that your policy covers your destinations, planned activities and any valuable items.
If something goes wrong while you are away
If you return to find damage or a break in at your business or home, call police as soon as it is safe to do so. For emergencies call Triple Zero (000). For non urgent situations use the police assistance line in your state and try not to tidy up until you have spoken with police.
Next, take photos or video of the damage, list what has been lost and keep receipts for any emergency repairs. This information will help when you submit a claim.
If something happens while you are overseas, report theft or loss to local police and contact your travel insurer’s emergency assistance line. Many insurers require a police report within a short time frame for theft claims to be considered.
PSC Insurance Brokers has dedicated claims resources in every PSC branch and can guide you through the process. If you would like to review your current insurance or discuss holiday plans for your business, contact your local PSC Insurance Brokers office or visit the PSC Insurance Brokers contact page.
