For many businesses, the Christmas and New Year period means a well-earned break. But an empty shop, office, warehouse or worksite can be a target for break-ins, and problems like a burst pipe or a power outage can go unnoticed for days when nobody is around.
A little preparation before you close the doors can reduce the chance of a loss, and make sure your insurance responds if something does go wrong.
Common holiday shutdown risks
Theft and burglary. Closed premises, sites and vehicles can attract thieves, especially when tools, stock or equipment are left in view.
Water damage. A leaking pipe, failed hot water service or blocked drain can cause a lot of damage if it runs for days before anyone notices.
Storms and heat. Summer storms, heatwaves and power outages can damage premises and spoil temperature-sensitive stock.
Fire. Electrical faults, equipment left switched on and rubbish build-up can all increase fire risk.
Cyber incidents. Scammers often take advantage of quieter periods when staff aren't checking emails and accounts closely.
Check your policy conditions
Some business policies include conditions about unoccupied premises, alarms and security. For example, a policy may require your alarm to be set and monitored, or may limit cover if premises are left empty for longer than a set number of days. Before you close:
Check whether your policy has an unoccupancy clause and how long it allows.
Make sure any required alarms, locks or security measures are working and in use.
Let us know if your premises will be closed for longer than usual, or if you're doing renovations over the break.
A pre-shutdown checklist
1. Secure the premises
Lock all doors, windows and gates, test your alarm and make sure your monitoring company has current contact details. Consider asking a trusted person to check the premises during the break.
2. Lock away tools and equipment
Don't leave tools in vehicles or on site. Store them in a locked building or secure container, and keep keys out of sight.
3. Switch off and unplug
Turn off equipment, appliances and machinery that don't need to run. Leave on only what's needed, such as fridges, freezers, alarms and servers.
4. Think about water
Check for slow leaks, clear gutters and drains, and know where your main water shut-off valve is.
5. Protect stock and records
Move stock off the floor where water could reach it, and back up important files and accounts.
6. Tighten up online security
Remind staff to be wary of unexpected payment requests, change in bank details emails and suspicious links. Turn on multi-factor authentication for email and banking where you can.
7. Photograph your premises
Quick photos of your premises, stock and equipment before you close can be useful if you need to make a claim.
If something happens while you're away
Make the premises safe, report any break-in to police and get a report number, and contact us as soon as you can. Take photos of the damage and keep receipts for emergency repairs. Our claims page explains what to expect.
How we help
We've been broking since 2005, and we look after businesses Australia-wide. We can check your policy's security and unoccupancy conditions, confirm that tools, stock and equipment are covered, and help you if you need to make a claim over the break.
Talk to us before you close
If you'd like us to check your cover before the holidays, call us on (03) 9078 6473, email info@mminsure.com.au or contact us.
