4 Reasons to Purchase Business Interruption Insurance
The Need for Revenue Doesn’t Pause When You Can’t Do Business
Business interruption (BI) insurance replaces lost income when a covered peril forces you to slow or stop operations. Typical triggers include fire, wind, or water damage that makes your premises unsafe or unusable, or a direct physical loss to key equipment that halts production.
Property insurance pays to repair buildings and equipment; BI covers the lost revenue during downtime. Insurers generally measure the loss using your historical sales, normal operating trends, and seasonality. If your business peaks during the holidays or summer, that higher expected revenue is included in the calculation, which matters if a shutdown occurs during your busy season.
Keep the Lights On: Fixed Expenses Covered
Beyond lost net income, BI typically covers necessary continuing expenses you can’t easily turn off. Think of payroll, rent or mortgage, utilities, property taxes, and scheduled loan payments. Keeping payroll flowing preserves your trained team so you can restart quickly without the cost and delay of rehiring and retraining.
Some policies include an ordinary payroll limitation that caps coverage for non-key staff after a set number of days. Others allow for higher limits to keep everyone on board through a longer outage. Maintaining rent, taxes, and loan payments protects your credit standing and vendor relationships, which can be critical when you’re negotiating extended terms or expedited deliveries after a loss.
Comeback Faster: Extra Expense Coverage
Extra expense coverage pays reasonable costs you incur to shorten or mitigate the interruption. Examples include leasing a temporary location, renting substitute equipment, paying overtime for contractors, expediting shipping, or outsourcing portions of your workflow to a qualified vendor. Spending more up front can reduce overall claims by shortening downtime.
Many policies evaluate extra expenses on a “least cost” basis. If a $15,000 temporary fix prevents $75,000 of additional lost income, it’s usually a covered win. Track these costs separately and keep vendor quotes, invoices, and emails that show how each expense sped up your return to normal.
Supply Chain Snags and Civil Authority Closures
Not every disruption happens inside your four walls. Civil authority coverage may respond when a government order blocks access to your premises due to nearby property damage. Policies often include a short waiting period before coverage begins and a maximum duration for this extension. Contingent business interruption can address losses caused by direct physical damage to a scheduled supplier or major customer that stops the flow of materials or sales. To support these claims, expect to provide purchase orders, contracts, historical lead times, shipping records, and communications that document how the external event interrupted your revenue.
Sizing It Right: Limits, Waiting Periods, and Indemnity
Right-sizing BI starts with your finances. Calculate limits using gross earnings or business income formulas that reflect your margins, fixed costs, and realistic ramp-up time. Include seasonality and planned growth to avoid underinsurance during your busiest months. Most policies include a waiting period (commonly 24–72 hours) before coverage starts; choose a deductible and waiting period that fit your cash reserves.
The indemnity period is when the policy pays for covered losses, often up to 12, 18, or 24 months. For major rebuilds, permitting delays and equipment lead times can easily push past a year, so match the period to your real-world recovery timeline. Review coinsurance clauses, ordinary payroll limitations, and any exclusions that might trim a payout if limits are too low.
Build Resilience Into Your Balance Sheet
Interruption coverage turns a shutdown into a setback rather than a threat to survival. Our agents at Connor Insurance Agency can help you model limits, waiting periods, and extra expense options against real scenarios, then place business insurance designed to keep cash flow moving when the unexpected hits. Give us a call today at (828) 478-3743.
What Is a Consent to Rate (CTR) Form in Homeowners Insurance? [NC Explained]
If you’ve reviewed your homeowner’s insurance application and seen a form labeled “Consent to Rate”, you might be wondering what it means—and whether you should sign it. Here’s a simple explanation for homeowners in North Carolina.
What Is Consent to Rate in Insurance?
In North Carolina, most insurance premiums are regulated by the NC Rate Bureau, which works with the Department of Insurance to set baseline pricing for policies. However, if an insurer wants to charge more than the approved rate, they are required to get written permission from the policyholder. That’s what the Consent to Rate (CTR) form is.
Why Would an Insurer Ask for a CTR?
You may be asked to sign a Consent to Rate form if:
– You’re purchasing higher-than-standard coverage
– Your property has increased risk characteristics (such as an older roof, proximity to the coast, or prior claims)
– You’re insured with a carrier that uses individualized pricing models
In all cases, the carrier is essentially saying:
“We’d like to insure you—but at a rate higher than the standard. Do you agree?”
Does This Mean You’re Paying Too Much?
Not always. Signing a CTR doesn’t mean you’re being overcharged. It simply means your premium exceeds the state’s “default” rate due to:
– Customized or enhanced coverage
– Elevated risk profile
– Access to a carrier that might otherwise decline coverage
What Happens If You Don’t Sign?
If you don’t sign the Consent to Rate form, the carrier can decline coverage.
In most cases, they will. So if you want that policy, signing is typically required.
Should You Sign It?
Yes—if:
– The coverage and value make sense for your needs
– You trust the carrier and agent you’re working with
A Guide to Winterizing Your Home
Drafts, Doors, and Dollars
To winterize your home, start with the biggest leaks, such as attic hatches, exterior doors, baseboards, and windows. Add adhesive weatherstripping to door jambs and sweeps to the bottom edge; use silicone caulk around window and door casings, plumbing penetrations, and where siding meets the foundation. Do a simple smoke-pencil test: on a windy day, turn on kitchen/bath fans, then move an incense stick or smoke pencil along trim and outlets; smoke that wavers or is sucked inward flags a leak. Air sealing paired with insulation typically reduces heating costs by 10–15 percent, which is why it’s the first, highest-ROI winter task.
Heat Without the Headache: HVAC Tune-Ups
A pre-winter service should inspect burners and heat exchangers, test safeties, verify combustion and draft, clean the flame sensor, check refrigerant levels for heat pumps, and calibrate the thermostat. Replace filters every 1–3 months; most homes do best with MERV 8–11 for airflow and capture balance, while allergy households often choose MERV 11–13 if the system can handle it. For setback savings, drop the thermostat 7–10° F while you sleep or are away for 8 hours; many households see annual heating costs 10 percent lower without sacrificing comfort.
Pipes on Ice? Not Today.
Slip foam sleeves over exposed lines in basements, crawlspaces, and garages. Cap outdoor faucets and shut interior valves to drain the exterior lines. During a deep cold snap, run a pencil-thin trickle from a tap to keep water moving. Smart leak sensors should be installed beneath sinks, near the water heater, and behind the washer. If a line bursts, an automatic shut-off valve at the main (or a smart valve at key branches) can stop flow fast and limit damage.
Roof, Gutters, and the Great Ice Dam Escape
Clean gutters of leaves and grit, then test the flow by running a garden hose at the high end. Confirm each downspout discharges several feet from the foundation. Prevent ice dams by keeping the attic cold. Seal all attic air leaks around light fixtures and chases, ensure continuous soffit intake and ridge or gable exhaust, and avoid venting bath fans into the attic. Schedule a roof inspection annually or after hail; a pro will spot lifted shingles, failed flashing, and soft decking before snow finds them.
Safety First: Fire, Carbon Monoxide, and Generators
Place smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level and near sleeping spaces. Test monthly and replace batteries on a set schedule, twice per year. Space heaters need a 3-foot buffer from anything that burns, must sit on a flat surface, and should plug directly into a wall outlet with tip-over and overheat protection. If using a portable generator, run it outdoors at least 20 feet from doors and windows, never in a garage, and power the house through a transfer switch.
Call Your Agent Before the Snow Flies
Winter-proofing lowers risk and may unlock discounts. Talk with your local North Carolina agent about coverage tweaks for cold-weather hazards and home upgrades, before the first freeze turns minor issues into major claims. Give us a call at (828) 478-3743.
Your Business Insurance Policy Checklist
As your business evolves over time, so should your insurance protection. Staying proactive with insurance coverage can mean the difference between a minor setback and a major financial loss. Schedule regular interviews with our experienced agent to help ensure your policies reflect your current operations, assets, and risks. Use the following checklist to evaluate your current policies and identify any gaps in protection.
General Liability Insurance
Every business should carry general liability coverage, regardless of size or industry. This insurance covers claims related to property damage, bodily injury, and personal injury that occur during normal business operations. Without a general liability policy, your company could face significant costs from lawsuits or settlements. Policy limits should reflect the scale of your business and the risks you face.
Commercial Property Insurance
Whether you lease office space or own your building, commercial property insurance can help protect your physical assets, including your building, equipment, furniture, and inventory. Ensure your policy covers less common risks, such as vandalism and certain weather events, as well as fire and theft. If you have multiple locations, each site should be covered.
Business Interruption Insurance
An unexpected event, such as a fire, storm, or power outage, could force you to close temporarily. Business interruption insurance can help you replace lost income and pay ongoing expenses, such as rent, payroll, and utilities, while operations are suspended. Check your policy’s coverage and waiting periods to determine how long your business will be protected during a shutdown.
Commercial Auto Insurance
If your business uses vehicles for client visits, deliveries, or transporting goods, you need commercial auto insurance coverage. Personal auto policies typically do not cover accidents involving company-owned or leased vehicles. Your policy should cover liability, collision, and uninsured motorist claims, and protect against claims from employees who use their personal vehicles for business purposes.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Most states require businesses that have employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If an employee suffers an on-the-job injury, it pays for medical expenses and lost wages. This protection demonstrates responsibility and can help prevent costly lawsuits. Your policy should accurately reflect your payroll and include all job classifications.
Cyber Liability Insurance
The risk of cyberattacks and data breaches increases as more business operations move online. Cyber liability insurance can cover expenses related to data recovery, notification requirements, legal fees, and ransom payments in the event of a cyber incident. Coverage can vary widely among providers, so review limits and exclusions carefully.
Professional Liability Insurance
Any business that provides professional services or advice should consider professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions (E&O). This coverage protects against claims of negligence, mistakes, or misrepresentation. It is essential in law, real estate, accounting, and consulting industries.
Review Your Policies with Our Experienced Agent
Insurance policies can be complex, and missing key coverage could put your business at risk. Work with our knowledgeable Connor Insurance Agency agent to help ensure your insurance coverage aligns with your company’s industry, size, and growth plans. Regular policy reviews can identify coverage caps and potential savings and offer assurance that your business is protected from unexpected losses. Take the time to discuss your insurance needs with us at (828) 478-3743 so you can focus on running your business with confidence.
I Just Wanted a Quote but Got Something More
When Katie reached out for a home and auto quote, she expected a spreadsheet. Maybe some numbers. Probably a few emails back and forth. What she didn’t expect? A conversation about how much liability protection she might need. A discussion about her home’s replacement value. A recommendation that protected her future, not just her premiums.
Behind the Quote: What Makes Our Process Different
A lot of agencies will just run your info through a few systems, pick the cheapest options, and hit send. At Connor Insurance, we try and do it differently. Here’s what actually happens after you say, “I’d like a quote.”
Step 1: We Collect Context
The more details you can give us—your current pricing, coverage limits, deductible preferences—the better we can serve you. Without that context, we’re flying blind. We don’t want to waste your time with irrelevant options.
Step 2: We Strategize Internally
We talk as a team. Who’s the best fit for this household? What carriers align with their goals? Are there red flags we can identify early? It’s not usually just one person making the call—we collaborate to try and get the best-fit solutions.
Step 3: We Test the Market
We enter your information and monitor:
– What carriers are pulling
– What reports they’re running
– How pricing is trending
If we already know your current pricing, we can rule out poor options immediately.
Step 4: We Underwrite, Quote & Fine-Tune
This is where we:
– Quote actual coverage—not just price
– Try to align limits with your real risk
– Adjust valuations and deductibles based on what matters to you
Step 5: We Review Together
Then we bring you our best options.
Then we can talk about:
– Liability limits (based on your lifestyle and assets)
– Deductible comfort levels
– Underwriting questions that could lead to a better rating
– Long-term strategy, not just short-term savings
You get to make confident decisions, not rushed ones.
You May Never See the Work—But You’ll Feel the Results
We’re not just quoting insurance. We’re trying to craft protection. Let us know when you’re ready. We’ll do the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to.
Preventing a Home Insurance Claim from Getting Denied
Home insurance offers peace of mind in case of unexpected damage or loss, but that protection only applies if your claim is approved. Many homeowners are surprised to learn their claims are denied for reasons that are often preventable. Knowing how to avoid the pitfalls can help ensure your homeowners’ policy works for you when you need it most.
Common Reasons for Claim Denials
After a fire, flood, or other disaster, learning that your claim has been denied may be the worst possible news. The following are some common reasons for homeowners’ insurance claim denials:
- Exclusion clauses: Your claim will be denied if the cause of the damage is excluded from coverage in your policy.
- Non-payment of premiums: Homeowners coverage is contingent upon timely premium payments.
- Late filing: Insurance companies require prompt notification of losses and impose time-sensitive filing and documentation requirements for claims.
- Insufficient documentation of damage: Accurately documenting the damage to your property in a detailed manner, with photographs, is essential.
- Insufficient preventative measures following a loss: Policyholders must take steps to protect the property from further damage and mitigate the extent of loss. Failure to do so could be grounds for denial.
- Questionable claims or false statements: The insurance company will send an adjuster to investigate your claim, which may be denied if anything questionable is found.
Avoid the Pitfalls
Take the following steps to help ensure you have the homeowners coverage you need, when you need it:
Review Your Policy Regularly
As your home changes, so do your coverage needs. Renovations, additions, and new appliances can all affect policy requirements. Review your homeowners policy after any major updates to your property and at least once a year to help prevent denied claims. Every home insurance policy has exclusions and limitations. Our agent can help you review your policy to identify these exclusions and advise you on additional coverage if necessary to help prevent unpleasant surprises.
Document the Condition of Your Property
Keep detailed records of the condition of your home, including photos or videos of each room and any valuable items. Store digital copies in the cloud so they remain accessible in case your home is damaged by fire or another peril. Documentation plays a key role in successful claims. It serves as crucial evidence in proving the pre-damage condition of your property and the extent of loss.
Perform Routine Maintenance
Claims may be denied if the insurer determines that neglect rather than a covered event caused damage. When a roof leaks due to long-term wear, your claim for storm damage may not be covered. Regularly inspect and maintain critical systems, including your roof, electrical, and plumbing, and keep records of maintenance and repairs to demonstrate your diligence.
Report Claims Promptly, Honestly, and Thoroughly
Delay in filing a claim can cause issues with approval. Most insurers require that claims be submitted within a specific time frame after a loss. Accuracy is essential. Incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to a denial. Provide a detailed description of the incident, along with supporting evidence, and do not exaggerate your losses. Insurance companies often verify claims with inspections or reports, and honesty keeps your credibility intact.
Connect with us at (828) 478-3743 for assistance on personal insurance that can protect you and your family should the unexpected occur.
The Lumber Was Gone Overnight — A Costly Mistake During Construction
It was supposed to be the start of something great. The framing crew had dropped off materials for the new build: floor trusses, plywood, and windows still in their packaging. The foundation was poured, the lot was prepped, and work was set to resume on Monday. But when the crew showed up? The lumber was gone. Thousands of dollars in materials vanished overnight. No security. No cameras. And worst of all, no builder’s risk insurance.
What Is Builder’s Risk Insurance?
Builder’s risk is a specialized insurance policy designed to protect property under construction.
Whether you’re a:
– Homeowner building your dream house
– Investor flipping a property
– GC running a new development
– Business owner remodeling your location
You need to protect the structure and the materials from theft, vandalism, fire, or weather damage, even before the job is finished.
Who Should Buy It?
That depends on the contract. Builder’s risk can be purchased by:
– The property owner
– The builder or contractor
– A lender requiring it as part of financing
The key is: someone needs to carry it. Otherwise, you’re flying without a net.
Why Home or Business Insurance Won’t Cut It
Traditional home or commercial property insurance expects the building to be:
– Secured
– Occupied
– Fully enclosed
If it’s just studs and open framing, your standard policy may exclude coverage entirely.
Builder’s risk is built for:
– Unfinished structures
– Exposed interiors
– Materials stored on-site
– Gaps in walls, roofs, and windows
Don’t Let Theft or Fire Derail Your Build
If you’re starting or managing a construction project, don’t skip this step.
Protect the build from day one.
We’ll help you figure out who should carry the policy, when to start it, and what coverage is needed for your job.
📞 Call us before the first truck rolls in.
Do You Need Flood Insurance If You’re Not in a Flood Zone?
Many homeowners assume they don’t need flood insurance because they’re “not in a flood zone.” But the truth is—everyone is in a flood zone. The only question is: Is your risk high or low?
What Is Flood Zone X?
Most properties in North Carolina fall into Flood Zone X, which FEMA designates as low risk. However, low risk doesn’t mean no risk.
Flood Zone X properties can still experience flooding due to:
– Heavy rain and poor drainage
– Storm drain backups
– Water runoff from nearby construction
– Mudslides and ground movement caused by water
What Homeowners Insurance Doesn’t Cover
Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.
It also won’t help if:
– Water accumulates outside and enters your home
– Mudslides (fluid ground movement) damage your property
– Water crosses a property line and impacts multiple homes
These scenarios require a separate flood insurance policy.
What Counts as a “Flood” in Insurance Terms?
Flood insurance typically covers:
– Pooling or gathering of water from outside
– Damage that crosses over property lines
– Ground movement or mudslides caused by water
It kicks in where homeowners insurance stops—providing protection for those unexpected water-related disasters.
How Much Does Flood Insurance Cost?
If you’re in Flood Zone X, flood insurance is often very affordable. At Connor Insurance, we offer access to private flood insurance quotes online, in minutes.
➡️ Visit our flood page to get a quote now: ConnorInsuranceAgency.com
Should You Buy Flood Insurance?
If you’re unsure, here’s what to do:
1. Find out what flood zone you’re in (we can help).
2. Consider your property’s slope, drainage, and surroundings.
3. Get a fast quote—then decide.
Protect What Homeowners Insurance Can’t
Flooding is the #1 natural disaster in the U.S. Don’t assume you’re safe just because you’re “not near water.” One heavy rainstorm can change everything.
Get a flood quote or give us a call today. Let’s protect your home from the unexpected.
5 Holiday Retail Risks to Avoid
For most retailers, the holiday season is the busiest and most profitable time of year. With higher customer traffic and increased online sales come greater risks. Both brick-and-mortar stores and e-commerce businesses face unique challenges over the holidays. Help protect your profits, customers, and reputation by taking steps to identify and manage these risks.
Theft and Shoplifting
Crowded stores, rushed shoppers, and distracted employees create the perfect opportunity for theft. Both shoplifting and employee theft tend to rise during the holiday rush. Help deter thieves by installing security cameras, placing mirrors in blind spots, and maintaining an adequate number of staff on the floor. Train staff to spot suspicious behavior and handle theft safely. Inventory tracking systems can identify discrepancies early before they become major losses.
Cybersecurity Threats
Online retailers face a surge in cyberattacks during the holidays. Hackers take advantage of increased web traffic and the urgency of holiday shopping to launch ransomware attacks, data breaches, and phishing scams. Protect your business with strong cybersecurity measures, such as updated software, multi-factor authentication, and secure payment gateways. Regularly monitor for unusual account activity and train staff to recognize phishing attempts. Our agent can help you find effective cyber liability insurance at the best available rates to provide financial protection in the event of a data breach.
Payment Fraud and Chargebacks
The rush of holiday sales can attract scammers. Fraudulent credit card transactions, chargeback scams, and fake refund requests typically spike during the holiday season. In-store and online retailers should use secure payment systems that include address verification and fraud detection tools. E-commerce businesses should monitor transactions for unusual patterns, such as multiple high-value orders from the same IP address, to help flag suspicious activity early. Meet with our experienced agent to review your commercial crime insurance policy before the holiday season to help protect your business.
Delivery and Package Fraud
Package theft and delivery scams are growing issues for e-commerce retailers. Criminals may intercept deliveries or claim packages never arrived to obtain refunds. Work with reputable shipping partners, require delivery confirmation, and use tamper-evident packaging to reduce losses. Clear communication with customers about delivery expectations can help prevent disputes. Insurance coverage for goods in transit can provide an added layer of protection against damage or loss.
Customer or Employee Injuries
Icy parking lots and overcrowded aisles can lead to injuries that result in costly claims. Retailers should maintain proper lighting, keep walkways clear, and promptly clean spills to help prevent accidents. Provide clear signage for wet floors or high-traffic areas. Remind employees to use safe lifting techniques and wear appropriate footwear in the warehouse or back room. General liability and workers’ compensation coverage can help protect your business if an injury occurs.
Protect Your Business This Holiday Season
Holiday sales can bring great rewards but also significant risks. Take proactive steps to improve security, maintain safety, and review insurance coverage to safeguard your business during the busiest time of year. Contact our local North Carolina agent today at (828) 478-3743 to help ensure your retail operation has the right coverage to handle whatever challenges the holidays may bring.
Driving Safety Tips for Holiday Travel
Every year, millions of Americans take to the road for the Thanksgiving holiday, traveling to spend time with their family and friends. Along with the anticipation of a wonderful celebration, the season has unpredictable weather, very heavy traffic, and an increased risk of accidents. If you have plans to travel this Thanksgiving, practicing safe driving conduct is critical. Read some of the basics that can help you enjoy a safe, pleasurable road trip.
Inspect Your Vehicle Before Your Trip
Before you leave, a quick check of your vehicle can help you avoid a breakdown or other problem. Ensure your tires have good tread and the tire pressure is correct. Check your oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels. Test your brake lights, headlights, and turn signals to ensure they work properly. If your car is due for a maintenance check, schedule it before your trip.
Plan Ahead and Leave Early
Plan your route before you leave to help you stay safe during Thanksgiving travel. Check weather forecasts, road closures, and traffic conditions. If possible, travel during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, when the roads are often less congested. Leave early to reduce stress and allow time for unexpected delays.
Do Not Drive Distracted
Safe driving requires keeping your eyes on the road ahead, your hands on the wheel, and your full attention on the road ahead. Holiday travel often means traveling on unfamiliar routes and interacting with your passengers. Set your GPS before you start and pull over safely if you need to adjust it. Keep your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode. If you need to send a message or make a call, let a passenger do it, or pull over. Focus on the road while driving and save the multitasking after you arrive.
Stay Alert and Drive Defensively
Defensive driving is essential, as over 80 million Americans will travel this year, an all-time record. Maintain a safe following distance, especially in wet, snowy, or icy conditions. Avoid sudden lane changes. Watch for other drivers who may be distracted or fatigued and give them plenty of space. Pull over to switch drivers or rest if you start feeling tired.
Stay Sober Behind the Wheel
Thanksgiving celebrations often include alcoholic drinks, but as we know, drinking and driving never mix. Even one drink can affect your judgment and reaction time. If your celebrations include alcoholic beverages, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi service.
Prepare for Weather Changes
The weather can be unpredictable in late November. Rain, fog, or early snow can cause hazardous driving conditions. Slow down and increase the distance if you encounter slick roads or poor visibility due to fog, rain, or snow. Safety always takes priority over speed. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, with essentials such as blankets, water, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, and snacks.
Make Sure You Are Covered Before You Hit the Road
Before setting out for Thanksgiving travel, ensure your auto insurance covers all the risks you could face while traveling during the busiest time of year. Reviewing your policy beforehand helps you confirm you have adequate liability, collision, and roadside assistance coverage. Call one of our friendly local North Carolina agents at (828) 478-3743 for guidance to ensure your current policy suits your travel needs. Knowing you are covered can provide peace of mind so you can enjoy the holiday with loved ones.