The rising costs of commercial property insurance have been a cause of concern for many small business owners, leaving many wondering, “Why the steep bills?”
Keep reading to explore what’s driving commercial property insurance hikes and discover tips to help you manage your business property and insurance expenses wisely.
Why are commercial insurance rates so high?
A few significant factors explain why commercial property insurance premiums are increasing.
#1 – Insurance to value (ITV) cost increases
One of the most influential factors affecting rates is the cost of replacing a commercial building. For instance, a million-dollar building insured for $1 million a few years ago would now cost about $1.3 million to replace.
Several factors contribute to this cost escalation:
- Inflated building materials: The price of building materials has skyrocketed in recent years. This includes everything from lumber to concrete, making construction significantly more expensive.
- Rising labor wages: Higher wages for construction workers contribute to increased replacement costs, as labor is a fundamental component of any construction project.
- Evolving ordinances and laws: Construction regulations and ordinances are continually changing. Older properties may require extensive updates to comply with new building codes, further driving up replacement costs.
Surprisingly, a substantial portion of commercial properties often find themselves underinsured by more than 40%.
Inflation and fluctuating building costs have made it increasingly important for businesses to accurately calculate their Insurance-to-Value (ITV). The ITV calculation ensures the balance between insurance and property value, guaranteeing sufficient protection. To create accurate estimates, it is imperative to include the cost of materials, labor, permits and debris removal. You can use third-party appraisals, inflation-adjusted asset records or benchmark tools to obtain accurate figures. Accurate ITV calculations are crucial to avoid financial pitfalls and ensure adequate commercial property coverage.
#2 – Supply chain disruptions
Another major contributor to the surge in commercial property insurance rates is the disruption in the global supply chain. Delays in the availability of building materials and other crucial resources have further inflated construction costs. This disruption has created a domino effect, causing repercussions throughout the industry.
#3 – Reinsurance pressures
Adding to the complexity, commercial property insurance companies are grappling with their own set of hurdles. Reinsurance companies, which offer insurance to insurance companies, are experiencing significant losses. This financial pressure has made insurers more cautious about the risks and property coverage they underwrite. Consequently, some insurers are pulling out of the commercial property insurance market, reducing competition and tightening their terms and conditions.
#4 – National disasters
Nationwide, hurricanes and wildfires have wreaked havoc in various regions, causing businesses substantial damage and financial losses. While natural disasters broadly impact commercial insurance rates across the country, it’s essential to consider local and regional factors as well. In states like Missouri and Illinois, severe weather and hail storms are a recurring menace. These storms can cause substantial damage to roofs, windows and other structural components, leading to costly repairs and insurance claims. This surge in natural disasters leads to higher claims, prompting insurance companies to reassess their risk exposure, often raising premiums.
How are commercial insurance property rates calculated?
The factors influencing insurance premiums aren’t one-size-fits-all. Let’s look at a simplified overview of what’s in play.
Property valuation
The value of your property is a critical factor in shaping your insurance policy limits and pricing. High-value properties naturally command higher premiums because they represent higher risk and a more considerable potential loss for the insurance company if something goes wrong.
Geographic risks
As in real estate, location also matters in insurance underwriting. If your business is in an area prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods or earthquakes, your commercial property insurance costs will likely be higher. Insurers look at the local risks, and if Mother Nature’s not on your side, it’ll cost you.
Local building codes and regulations
Compliance with local building codes and regulations can significantly impact commercial property insurance rates. Older structures may require costly updates to meet current codes, increasing the replacement cost.
Nature of business
The type of industry in which your business operates also has a bearing on insurance pricing. Some industries inherently carry more risk than others, and insurance providers factor this into their calculations. For instance, a manufacturing facility is exposed to more hazards compared to a professional office, leading to higher coverage expenses.
Security measures
The security infrastructure in place at your property is a crucial consideration. How secure is your property? Do you have state-of-the-art security systems and fire protection measures in place? These can help lower your premiums by reducing the risk of damage or theft.
Claims history
Your business’s claims history is also under scrutiny. Most insurers look at the past five years of claims. This review period allows insurers to gauge your risk profile and determine the likelihood of future claims. While you can’t control weather-related incidents, insurers may ask what measures you’re taking to prevent future losses, which can help lower your costs.
2024 Rate increase predictions and recent history
Looking back at the last five years, we can see a consistent pattern of rate increases in commercial property insurance. This incline began in the third quarter of 2017 and has continued since. Although average jumps stayed within single digits early in 2022, the rates are still climbing as we head into next year.
Predicted Premium Increase for 2024
+10% to +25%
Natural disasters and escalating construction costs are significant contributors to this trend. In 2022 alone, global property losses due to these events reached $227 billion, with only half covered by insurance. Rising construction costs, with a 14.1% increase, may lead to underinsurance if property values aren’t updated.
Stay informed and work closely with your insurance broker to ensure the right coverage for your evolving needs. Remember, these predictions are based on industry reports, and rates can vary widely depending on your circ*mstances. Always consult with your insurance professional for advice tailored to your situation.
Tips to manage risk and commercial property insurance costs
Mastering risk isn’t solely about finding the right commercial property insurance policy and coverage; it’s also about being proactive to your specific exposures. Below are some strategic maneuvers to help you mitigate risk and potentially reduce your commercial property insurance rates.
➤ Risk assessment
Conduct a thorough risk assessment of your property. Identify potential hazards and vulnerabilities. By proactively addressing these risks, you can reduce the likelihood of a claim and potentially qualify for lower premiums.
➤ Employee safety training
It is crucial to invest in comprehensive safety training for your employees. For instance, if your business involves storing goods, it is essential to emphasize proper material handling and storage practices. You should avoid stacking pallets beneath fire sprinklers, which can increase fire risk and reduce the effectiveness of the sprinkler. By cultivating a safety-conscious workplace culture, you can reduce accident rates and, subsequently, insurance claims, which will help preserve your bottom line.
➤ Regular maintenance
Prioritize regular maintenance of essential systems such as fire alarms, sprinkler systems and electrical wiring. Frequent inspections, ideally on a quarterly or at least annual basis, ensure that these systems remain in optimal working condition. This proactive approach not only minimizes the risk of system failures but also demonstrates diligence to insurers, potentially leading to reduced insurance costs.
➤ Deductible selection
Your choice of deductible can impact your price as well. Opting for a higher deductible means you’ll bear more of the financial burden in the event of a claim, which often results in lower premium costs. Striking the right balance is crucial to ensure you save money and can comfortably manage the deductible should the need arise.
➤ Collaborate with experts
Engage in ongoing collaboration with insurance professionals, loss control engineers and risk control experts. They can thoroughly evaluate your property and operations, offering valuable recommendations to enhance safety and mitigate risks. This collaborative effort not only safeguards your assets but can also contribute to more favorable insurance terms.
➤ Leverage loss prevention resources
Consult your insurance broker about available resources aimed at risk reduction. Some insurers provide complimentary tools such as moisture detectors or other loss prevention resources. Utilizing these resources not only improves safety but can also translate into potential cost savings over time.
➤ Communication with insurers
If you experience a rate increase, don’t hesitate to ask your broker what’s behind it. Request a loss control review by your insurance carrier to gain insights into areas where your business can make improvements. Open and transparent communication can lead to a better understanding of risk factors and potential adjustments to your commercial property coverage and insurance rates.
➤ Review and update coverage
Avoid the “set and forget” mentality when it comes to commercial property insurance policies. Periodically review your coverage to ensure it aligns with your evolving business needs. As your company grows or undergoes changes, your commercial property insurance coverage needs may shift. Staying vigilant about coverage updates not only protects your business but also ensures you’re not overpaying for unnecessary protection.
Protecting your business amid rising costs
Your annual premium may sometimes seem a mystery, but they’re not arbitrary numbers. They result from careful assessment of risk and various factors that come into play. As a business owner, it’s crucial to understand what factors influence these rates and how you can manage them effectively.
Remember that insurance is not just an expense; it’s an investment in protecting your business. While cutting costs by skimping coverage is tempting, it can leave you vulnerable to significant financial losses in a disaster or unexpected event. So, take the time to assess your risk, implement risk mitigation measures and work closely with insurance professionals to find the right coverage at a price that makes sense for your business. Doing so can protect your business and its assets while managing your costs effectively.
Ultimately, it’s all about balancing risk management and financial prudence. With the right approach, you can secure your business’s future without breaking the bank on your commercial property policy and insurance premiums. If you need expert guidance on navigating commercial property insurance and coverage options, contact Crane Agency.
