Burglary Is Still One of the Most Common Small Business Claims
Recent claims data from The Hartford shows that burglary and theft remain among the most common small business property claims, representing roughly 20 percent of claims in recent years. That level of frequency should get any business owner’s attention.
Understanding the Real Impact
A break in is rarely just about stolen items. Yes, inventory and equipment may be taken, but the damage to entry points, the disruption to operations, and the time spent managing repairs can quickly outweigh the value of what was removed. In some cases, businesses must close temporarily. The financial strain often shows up in places owners did not initially anticipate.
How Insurance Is Designed to Respond
Most Business Owners Policies and commercial property policies include protection for burglary. Business personal property coverage applies to stolen inventory, furniture, fixtures, and equipment. Building coverage addresses damage caused during forced entry. Business income coverage is critical if repairs prevent you from operating at full capacity.
Crime coverage is another important consideration, particularly if you handle cash or want protection against employee dishonesty. Not every policy automatically includes the level of protection your operation may require.
A common issue is that coverage limits no longer reflect current values. As businesses expand, invest in new equipment, or adjust inventory levels throughout the year, insured amounts can fall behind reality.
Practical Risk Management That Makes a Difference
Reducing burglary risk starts with visible deterrence and disciplined internal controls. Well-lit entry points, monitored alarm systems, and clearly positioned cameras make a property less attractive to intruders. Internally, defined key control processes and timely updates after staffing changes limit unnecessary access.
The same approach applies to cash management. Limiting the amount of cash kept on site and enforcing consistent handling procedures can significantly reduce potential losses.
No business can eliminate risk entirely, but you can control how prepared you are for it. Taking the time to review your coverage limits, endorsements, and security practices can make a significant difference.
Concklin Insurance Agency can walk through your current coverage and help determine whether your burglary protection aligns with your actual exposure. Reach out to schedule a coverage review.