According to the US Census Bureau, the number and percentage of home-based workers more than tripled between 2019 and 2021, from 5.7% (roughly 9 million workers) to 17.9% (about 28 million workers). And Florida is no exception to this trend. According to those same statistics, in 2021, roughly 16.6% of all workers were working from home.
If you’re one of the many individuals working from home in Florida or have started your own home-based business, you may be putting your employment or business at risk without proper coverage. A standard homeowner’s or renter’s policy may not protect you from some risks inherent in a home office or business.
Working From Home Has Unique Risks
If you are not working at an employer’s location, you may not be covered under their insurance policies and need coverage. Here are some of the risks home workers face:
- Damage to business equipment such as computers, printers, phone systems, office furniture, etc
- Injuries to clients, delivery persons, or other third parties injured while visiting your home office
- Productivity or financial losses due to work interruptions from storms, fire, flood, theft, or data breaches
Types of Home Office Business Insurance
Business Property Coverage—Covers your business equipment, such as computers, printers, copiers, and office furniture, against theft, fire, or weather-related damage--especially hurricane damage.
Liability Insurance—Covers medical expenses and legal fees if a client, delivery person, or other third party is injured while visiting your home office.
Professional Liability Insurance (Errors & Omissions)—Protects you from lawsuits for negligence, errors, or omissions for professional services such as accountants, consulting, lawyers, etc.
Business Interruption Insurance—Compensates you for lost income if your home office becomes unusable due to hurricanes, fire, etc.
Cyber Liability Insurance—Protects you from damages caused by data breaches, hacking, or other cybercrime if your business handles sensitive customer data or conducts business online.
Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)—A bundled package that combines general liability and business property insurance for comprehensive protection.
Add-Ons and Specialized Coverage for Home Offices
Increased Flood Coverage – Standard policies do not include flood damage, so you may need separate flood insurance, especially in Florida.
Hurricane Deductibles—Be sure to understand your policy’s hurricane deductible, as this can significantly impact your out-of-pocket costs after a storm.
Equipment Breakdown Coverage—Covers expensive office equipment if it breaks down due to mechanical or electrical failure.
Let the Mizrahi and Garris Insurance Agency Provide Insurance for Your Home Office
You have many options when selecting an insurance agency, so why choose Mizrahi and Garris? Consider these reasons:
- Home-Office and BOP-Insurance Experience–We have been providing coverage for people who work from home in home offices and run home-based businesses for many years. We understand the unique needs of remote workers.
- Superior Customer Service—We strive to provide world-class customer service. We answer your questions with in-depth information to make the right coverage decisions for you and your family.
- Over 20 Years of Local Insurance Experience—We’ve served Jacksonville and the surrounding areas, including customers in the 32034, 32080, 32081, 32082, 32084, 32085, 32223, and 32259 zip codes for over 20 years. We know the area inside and out and the coverage challenges our customers face.
- Free No-Obligation Insurance Quote–Connect with us for a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll help you find a protection plan perfectly customized to your needs. Call us at (904) 262-9202 or click the “Free Quote” to talk to an insurance expert today.