Courtesy of iii.org Hurricanes and storm-related flooding are responsible for the bulk of damage from disasters in the United States, accounting for annual economic losses of about $54 billion, according to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). These losses have been on the rise, due, in large part, to increased coastal development. More, bigger homes, more valuables inside them, more cars and infrastructure – these all can contribute to bigger losses. The CBO estimates that a combination of private insurance for wind damage, federal flood insurance, and federal disaster assistance would cover about 50 percent of losses to the residential sector and 40 percent of commercial sector losses. Recent research illustrates the benefits provided by mangroves, barrier islands, and coral reefs – natural features that frequently fall victim to development – in terms of limiting storm damage. In many places, mangroves are the first line of defense, their aerial roots helping to reduce …
Insurance
Guide for Renter’s Insurance
Courtesy of iii.org If you rent a house or apartment and experience a fire or other disaster, your landlord’s insurance will only cover the costs of repairing the building. To financially protect yourself you will need to buy renters or tenants insurance. Renters insurance protections Like homeowners insurance, renters insurance includes three key types of financial protection: Coverage for personal possessions Liability protection Additional living expenses (ALE) The big difference is that renters insurance doesn't cover the building or structure of the apartment—that's the landlord's responsibility. The following questions will help you choose the right coverage when you are shopping around for renters insurance or discussing your needs with an insurance professional. Coverage for personal possessions Coverage for your personal property is a key component of renters coverage, protecting you from theft, fire and a host of other unfortunate events. 1. …
Professional Liability Insurance and You
Courtesy of iii.org Do you or your business provide professional services or advice to other businesses or individuals? Could your counsel or service lead to losses by your client for which you could be held responsible? If so, you’ll likely want to purchase professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions insurance (E&O). Claims not covered by general liability insurance that are covered by professional liability insurance include negligence, misrepresentation, violation of good faith and fair dealing, and inaccurate advice. What types of businesses need professional liability insurance? In some states, professional liability insurance is required, especially for attorneys and doctors. Legal and medical malpractice insurance policies are special types of professional liability insurance. Other professionals that should consider professional liability insurance include: Accountants Architects Engineers Graphic designers Information …