Hybrid Work Hazards: Most Businesses Overlook Computer Insurance Risks, Reveals HSB Study

The rapid evolution of working practices, with more businesses adopting remote and hybrid work models, has highlighted the need for adequate insurance coverage to protect against computer risks. Shockingly, two-thirds of businesses are not giving due consideration to computer insurance risks in this changing landscape. This article aims to shed light on this issue and its potential consequences for businesses, as well as highlight the importance of evaluating and updating computer insurance coverage.

Statistics on businesses’ consideration of computer insurance

According to a recent survey, 67% of UK national, super-regional, and provincial brokers believe that their commercial clients have given little thought to computer insurance in relation to hybrid working arrangements. Alarmingly, only 29% of businesses adequately contemplate the associated risks. This lack of consideration is a growing concern, as 76% of super-regional brokers’ clients have given “not very much” or “no” consideration to computer risks. However, on a positive note, 40% of national brokers’ customers have given “quite a bit” of consideration to the potential risk of their business not being adequately covered for their computer equipment.

The impact of lost or damaged computer equipment

As businesses continue to embrace remote work models, the risk of lost or damaged computer equipment becomes significantly heightened. Shockingly, nearly half (46%) of both employed and self-employed workers have experienced instances of lost or damaged computer equipment as a result of working from home or commuting. This poses significant challenges for businesses, including increased costs and disruptions to operations. To mitigate these risks, it is vital for businesses to consider whether their computer equipment is adequately covered by insurance policies.

Importance of adequate computer equipment coverage

Businesses need to recognize the importance of evaluating their insurance coverage to ensure they are adequately protected from potential losses due to damaged or lost computer equipment. Failing to ensure adequate coverage can have severe financial and operational consequences. By adequately covering computer equipment, businesses can minimize the costs and impact associated with such incidents, safeguarding their operations and productivity.

Brokers’ approach to computer insurance policies

Brokers play a crucial role in helping businesses secure appropriate insurance coverage. They often recommend a combination of commercial combined, office, and standalone computer policies to address computer risks. Among super-regional brokers, office policies (62%) are most commonly placed, while provincial brokers primarily place commercial combined policies (61%). On the other hand, national brokers have shown a preference for standalone computer policies (60%) to mitigate potential risks associated with lost or damaged computer equipment.

The evolving nature of working practices calls for businesses to proactively evaluate and update their computer insurance coverage. Shockingly, a significant number of businesses are failing to consider the risks associated with remote and hybrid work models. To ensure the continuity and resilience of operations, businesses must reassess their insurance policies to adequately protect their computer equipment. Brokers can be instrumental in guiding businesses towards the most suitable insurance coverage based on their specific needs and risk profiles. It is time for businesses to address this oversight and prioritize computer insurance to safeguard against potential losses and disruptions in this increasingly digital era.

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