Towergate Insurance

Loss Gross Profit vs. Increased Cost of Working Cover

Loss Of Gross Profit and Increased Cost of Working cover are types of business interruption insurance. But how do they work and how are they different? We look into each to help you decide which is right for your business.

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What Is ‘Loss Gross Profit’ Insurance?

Take this example: A fire destroys your office and puts your business out of action. You have insured your stock and contents, maybe your building too, so these will be replaced under the sums insured.  But while you’re out of action, you aren’t making any profit and your business isn’t growing.  Loss of gross profit cover is in place to pay your rent, wages and all necessary over-heads whilst you are unable to trade. 

Once you’re back in your premises and trading again, your business insurance will continue to cover your expenses while you recover but it could be months or years before you can get back to the point you were at before the incident. Inevitably the longer you are out of action or spending resource on recovering, the longer you go without growing. Your business insurance can’t pay-out forever and even if you claim for every loss you suffer, you’re not making profit and the fall out, even after you’re up and running can keep costing you for years to come.

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What Is ‘Increased Cost of Working’ Insurance?

For a business with simple needs such as an office (computers, desk, telephones etc.) and no specific equipment or location requirements ‘increased cost of working’ is often a much more attractive feature and can cost less too (mostly because of the lower cost to the insurance company, and typically a lower sum Insured).  The insurer will find you suitable new premises, re-stock the contents and have you up and running, sometimes in as little 3 days.  You can continue your business, not lose customers or stop vying for new ones, all while staying active in your market place and experiencing as little disruption as possible.    

Indemnity Period – This is the amount of time you can claim for business interruption insurance.  Most commercial policies are set at 24 months as standard, and the minimum is 12 Months with most insurers.  If you have specific needs which could require a longer time you should discuss your requirements with your  insurance adviser. (e.g. sourcing a bespoke built piece of equipment that could take a year to manufacture and deliver)

However, it’s not suitable for all businesses.  For example, a business with a shop front would need similar premises because they may count on the footfall in a specific area or a printing office may use very specific pieces of equipment that allows them to fulfil their customers’ demands.  It is very important that you have this discussion with a qualified, specialist advisor who will help you make this decision.   

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