Smoke can be a costly problem at properties. The source of it can range widely. It may stem from internal equipment. A fire can create significant smoke damage to a building. Most of the time, this is damage requiring repair.
You should not operate in a space with significant smoke damage. It can create respiratory problems for your employees. Instead, turn to your business insurance agent to discuss the options. In some cases, the company may cover the damage for you.
What Caused the Damage?
Business insurance does not always cover smoke damage. It only covers damage from unexpected and unpreventable instances. For example, a fire occurs. The fire causes smoke damage to the home. The insurance agent needs to know what caused the fire to occur. If the fire occurred as a result of an electrical failure, it may help you. Did you have the ability to notice the problem? Was the fire a risk you understood could occur? If you couldn't have prevented the fire, your insurance policy might pay.
On the other hand, you may find your business’s equipment as the cause. The equipment may have poor maintenance. Normal maintenance helps ensure the equipment is working well. It can also help minimize the risk of dangerous buildups of material. This material can create fire risks. In this example, the insurer will learn the equipment did not receive proper maintenance. It failed as a result of normal wear and tear or poor maintenance. If the cause of the fire and smoke relates to the equipment neglect, it may not offer coverage.
When Coverage Is Available
If you have smoke damage to your property, your business insurance agent will assess it. If covered, the agent will determine the best coverage option. This may include cleaning it and painting the walls. If there is no treatment possible, it may need demolishing. Smoke damage alone is unlikely to lead to this, however. Rather, the insurer is likely to have the property cleaned and repaired as necessary. This should help you to get back to using your property again without risk.
Smoke damage needs repair. Even if you are unsure the business insurance policy will help, contact your agent. Discuss your options. Find out what steps are possible to minimize these risks. You may find insurance coverage can help provide for most of your needs. If not, it may be time to add more coverage to your property or obtain a new plan.