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Sarah Clements

Beach Hut Winter Maintenance Checklist
Beach Hut Winter Maintenance Checklist 1000 667 James Hallam

We recently published a guide to beach hut summer maintenance, which discussed how you can get your beach hut ready for the high season. In this post we will explore beach hut winter maintenance, with a checklist of tasks that will help you safely “close down” your hut for the winter months.

Why You Need to Winterise Your Hut

Taking care of any repairs or renovations now will make it less likely that you will have to make some more serious repairs in future. In winter, you could face:

  • High winds, heavy rains, low temperatures – unless you take the time to prepare, winter weather could cause some serious damage to your hut.
  • Risk of crime and theft – Remove any high value items that thieves may target while the area is less busy is an important part of winterising your hut.
  • Becoming a target of vandalism – Vandals may be more likely to target huts that look run-down and weatherbeaten.

Beach Hut Winter Maintenance Checklist

  1. Cleaning and Decluttering

You have heard of a spring clean? Well, now it is time for an autumn clean:

  • Remove all valuables, belongings, and perishables from your hut.
  • Give every surface a thorough clean. This will help prevent the build-up of mould and mildew over the winter, while also making next year’s spring clean a little easier.
  • Remember to secure any outdoor valuables too, such as furniture or BBQs.
  1. Repairing and Renovating

Prioritise small repairs now as it will help you avoid big repairs later:

  • Thoroughly inspect your hut for any potential issues
  • Look for leaks
  • Find and fix any loose fittings
  • Identify any signs of wear, tear, and rot
  • Oil hinges and other metal elements to help prevent rust
  1. Weatherproofing

Batten down the hatches! Look for ways to protect your hut from the harsh winter weather. This might involve:

  • Insulating the walls and ceiling, sealing any gaps in the windows and doors
  • Buying some shutters to protect any glass from sand and other debris.
  • Apply a fresh coat of weatherproof paint to the hut’s exterior, to protect it from the corrosive effects of sea salt.
  1. Security

Finally, think about ways you can keep your hut safe from criminals over the winter.

  • As we mentioned above, keeping your hut in pristine condition in itself could help deter vandals
  • Get extra locks for the exterior to make life harder for thieves
  • Remove any valuables to ensure that they will not find anything worth stealing even if they do break in
  1. Check Your Insurance

Your insurer may specify how you should care for your beach hut as a requirement of their specialist beach hut insurance policies. This might include taking certain measures to keep your hut safe from the elements, and from criminals, while it is unoccupied over the winter. It’s always recommended to:

  • Check your policy wording to make sure you are doing everything your insurer expects of you. If you do not, you may not be able to make a claim for damages should anything happen to your hut.
  • You could also use the end of the season as an opportunity to review your beach hut insurance. Are you getting all the cover you need, at a best price?

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your beach hut at a competitive price.

We provide a specialist beach hut insurance scheme and are experts in this market. We will endeavour to get full cover for your beach hut, no matter its size or location, and no matter how you use it, using our specialist beach hut scheme.

Learn more about our specialist beach hut insurance and get a free quote today.

Leaving a House Unoccupied in Winter: Dos and Don’ts
Leaving a House Unoccupied in Winter: Dos and Don’ts 1000 667 James Hallam

Whether you are leaving your home unoccupied for a few days, a few weeks, or a few months, it is essential that you take steps to secure your property. This is particularly important over the winter months, when the low temperatures can make small problems escalate into major disasters.

In this post we will outline some of the things you should do when leaving your home unoccupied in winter, along with some things you should not do.

What To Do When Leaving Your House Unoccupied in Winter

DO Strengthen Your Security

Invest in home security solutions that will deter any potential thieves while making life difficult for them should they break in:

  • Get a safe or a strongbox for any valuables you will be keeping in your house while you are not around.
  • Get automatic floodlights for your exterior, along with visible CCTV cameras.
  • Also get a smart doorbell with an inbuilt camera. Some models can send automated alerts to your phone if they detect any suspicious activity.

DO Check Your Home Insurance

Take care to read your home insurance policy wording. Your cover may only apply if your home is occupied. So if you are leaving your home unoccupied for more than a month, or so, you could invalidate your home insurance policy.

If your home will be unoccupied for an extended period:

  • Check on the property as often as you can, and try to spend at least one night a month there. This will mean that your home was technically “occupied” that month, which could help you avoid invalidating your insurance.
  • If you are not around to check on or occupy the property yourself, ask a friend or a family member to do it for you. You could also hire a professional house sitter (though you may have to tell your insurer about this).
  • If you know your home will be unoccupied for a long-term period, but nobody will be around to check on or inhabit the property, then you will need some dedicated unoccupied home insurance.

What Not To Do When Leaving Your House Unoccupied in Winter

DO NOT Advertise That Your Home Will Be Empty

Thieves may specifically target your home if they know it will be unoccupied. So try not to make it obvious that you will not be around:

  • If you are going on holiday, avoid talking about it on social media. If you do so, do not mention the specific dates when you will be away.
  • Arrange for your post to get redirected while you are away, to prevent undirected mail from accumulating.
  • Ask your neighbours to keep an eye on your property while you are away. You could also ask them to put your bins out and take them in again, to make it look like you are still around.

DO NOT Turn The Utilities Off

You might think that you can entirely eliminate the risk of leaks, escape of water, and electrical fires if you disconnect all of the utilities while you are away. However, during the winter months, this is a bad idea.

If you do not heat your home over the winter, your pipes could freeze. When pipes freeze, they expand and crack. This could cause severe damage to your plumbing and your boiler, and could also make leaks and floods more likely.

Instead:

  • Set your thermostat to at least 12.5°C for as long as you are away, to prevent your pipes from freezing.
  • If you have a timer, set your heating to come on at around 14°C during the coldest parts of the day – the early mornings and late nights.
  • Keep your electricity running so that you will be able to power all of your essential home security systems.

You may resent running up utility bills while you are away. But the cost of your bills will be a lot less than the potential costs of fixing leaky pipes and damaged boilers.

Get Comprehensive Home Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in protecting your assets. Talk to us, and we can give you expert risk management advice on keeping your home safe while it is unoccupied over the winter. We can also help you get the specialist, comprehensive home insurance you need for as long as you need it.

Find out how we can help you today.

Overtourism Destinations and How Travel Agents Can Help Combat It
Overtourism Destinations and How Travel Agents Can Help Combat It 1000 563 James Hallam

Growing numbers of travel agents and tour operators are working to address overtourism, either through promoting alternative destinations, or through focusing on more sustainable travel packages.

In this post we will outline what overtourism is, and explore some of the areas currently affected by the issue. We will also discuss some ways travel agents and tour operators might help combat overtourism.

What is Overtourism?

In short, overtourism means that so many tourists are visiting an area that it is starting to cause problems. These problems might involve:

  • Overcrowding
  • Pollution, due to excess traffic or increased waste
  • Loss of “local colour” or “character”
  • Reduced living standards for locals, as tourist needs take priority over local concerns

In some cases, overtourism may even cost lives. In September 2025, a funicular railway crash resulted in 16 deaths and 21 injuries. The president of a local residents’ association blamed the crash on excessive tourism. They claimed that overuse by tourists placed too much of a strain on the vehicle, resulting in excess wear and tear that ultimately led to disaster.

Top Destinations Suffering From Overtourism

  1. Venice, Italy – Where daily visitors often outnumber permanent residents, and where rising property prices have made housing unaffordable for most.
  2. Barcelona, Spain – Many local businesses have become souvenir shops, and rising costs have meant that some locals can no longer afford to live in their family homes. Some locals even took to protesting against tourists with “tourist go home” signs.
  3. Kyoto, Japan – Historic geisha areas now display signs explicitly requesting that tourists respect local customs and private property. In high season, public transport can get so crowded that some locals struggle to get around.
  4. Machu Picchu, Peru – These 15th century Incan ruins are so popular that the area is facing problems with litter, eroding pathways, and even damage and erosion to the stones themselves.
  5. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Dubrovnik is a popular stop for cruise ships. Over 500 visit the city each year, resulting in huge crowds and increased pollution. Yet because these passengers only spend a few hours in the city, they typically do not spend much money. This means that Dubrovnik may experience all of the downsides of mass tourism, while enjoying very few of the benefits.

How Can Travel Agents and Tour Operators Combat Overtourism?

Do your research about overtourism in your destinations. Before you arrange any trip to any destination, take some time to research:

If so, take it as a sign that you may need to rethink your approach.

Find and promote alternative destinations. Source lesser-known locations and you can help to relieve some of the pressure on popular, overcrowded destinations while still providing rich and rewarding travel experiences for your customers. This might involve finding “dupe” destinations – essentially, places that offer:

  • broadly similar experiences to more popular spots
  • less crowds
  • lower costs
  • less negative impact on locals

Go off the beaten track. If you are going to sell trips and packages to popular destinations, you could still help combat overtourism through sourcing alternative itineraries. Look for:

  • alternative routes and experiences
  • tours with quieter or off-peak hours if you want to include popular and iconic hotspots
  • the opportunity to encourage people to travel outside of the high season

For more ideas on how you can offer high quality tours and packages while minimising the harmful impact of travel, read our guide to sustainable travel.

Specialist Support For Travel Agents and Tour Operators

Your customers should have total peace of mind when booking trips or packages from you. If something goes wrong with one of your trips, we can help you ensure that you and your customers are covered for any resulting claims.

At James Hallam, we specialise in bespoke insurance services for travel agents and tour operators. Our tailored services can help you get the cover you need at a truly competitive price.

Find out more about our specialist insurance services for travel agents and tour operators.

Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) – Port Policies and Safety Concerns
Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) – Port Policies and Safety Concerns 1000 750 James Hallam

In recent years, ports of all sizes across the world have started exploring the potential of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). While USVs have the potential to bring a range of benefits, they also carry certain risks.

This post will help you understand the safety concerns associated with USVs, to help you devise effective port policies to meet these risks.

What is a USV?

An unmanned surface vehicle may also be referred to as an uncrewed surface vessel. Colloquially, they may be referred to as drone boats. In any case, these are vessels that can operate on the surface of the water without a crew. While some USVs need to be controlled remotely, others are fully autonomous.

USVs come in a range of sizes for a range of applications, including:

  • Commercial shipping
  • Seafloor mapping
  • Passenger ferries
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Surveillance
  • Security
  • Military functions

The Benefits of USVs

USVs offer a range of benefits over crewed vessels:

  • They can be significantly more cost-effective than standard vessels because they do not require a crew. Even if the USV is remote controlled, it would still be cheaper to hire a small team of operators than it is to recruit a full crew.
  • USVs can operate in conditions that might be unsafe or unsuitable for people, including hostile waters and hazardous environments.
  • USVs can operate around the clock, with no need to consider shifts, rotas, breaks, and leave.

Also, some might argue that USVs might be inherently safer than crewed vessels. If all major systems are controlled by automated systems, then there is less chance of human error. Also, computers do not get tired, and they can react immediately to changing circumstances.

Key Safety Concerns of USVs

However, USVs are not without their risks: 

  • Systems failure or loss of comms could result in collisions and other incidents.
  • Other vessels in the port or waterway may struggle to navigate around USVs, or may find their behaviour unpredictable.
  • There are cybersecurity risks. For example, cybercriminals could hack into the vessel’s systems and take control.
  • There are also growing concerns over the use of USVs for smuggling, surveillance, and terrorist operations.

USV Regulations

There is a strict and rapidly evolving regulatory environment governing the use of USVs. The UK Maritime Autonomous Systems Regulatory Working Group (MASRWG), in collaboration with a range of organisations including The Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the UK Chamber of Shipping, has developed the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) UK Industry Conduct Principles and Code of Practice 2020.

In addition, in 2017 Lloyd’s Register introduced a code to certify unmanned vessels. This code assesses USVs against a set of safety and operational performance standards.

Port Policies for USVs

The MASS UK Industry Conduct Principles and Code of Practice provides a full guide to USV regulations. This guidance outlines the following:

  • All USV manufacturers and operators should hold ISO9001:2015 certification governing testing and operational standards. In addition, ISO 27001 certification can address the cybersecurity risks associated with USVs.
  • You must apply a thorough risk assessment process to every USV operation. On top of this, you should develop a dedicated safety management system to ensure compliance with all applicable rules and regulations.
  • As part of the safety management system, there should be a maintenance management system (MMS) for every USV you operate. This should include regular inspections, with clear reporting procedures and corrective action recommendations for any potential risks identified.
  • You should consult your local controlling authority and, if necessary, obtain approval for the use of USVs in your port.
  • There should be procedures in place for responding to emergency situations including loss of control, systems failure, fires, collisions, groundings, floods, and acts of violence.
  • All port staff should receive full training, whether or not they will be operating the USVs. In the case of operators, the guidance outlines that they must be trained and certified to at least the same recognised standards for the equivalent conventionally crewed vessel.

For a full guide to the regulations governing the use of USVs, consult the MASS UK Industry Conduct Principles and Code of Practice 2020.

Section 3.7 is particularly important, as it outlines the process for getting authorisation and approval for USV deployment, including a list of authorities you may have to consult.

Purchasing USVs

When purchasing USVs, look for the Lloyd’s Register UMS certificate, along with any other relevant certifications that demonstrate that the manufacturer is compliant with all current regulations.

Also look for essential safety features including human-monitored onboard safety systems, and automated processes in the event of comms loss.

Maritime Insurance for USVs

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited.

We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your port for USV operations. We can also advise you on essential risk management considerations for unmanned vessels in your port.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

 

What Insurance Do Architects Need?
What Insurance Do Architects Need? 1000 667 James Hallam

Whether you are an architect, part of a design firm, or a freelance designer, this post will outline the essential insurance products you should consider if you work in the architecture industry.

Key Risks For Architects and Related Professionals

  • Errors and Omissions – If you make an error in your work, it could lead to some serious problems during the construction process, or afterwards. If these errors result in accident, injury, or financial losses, then someone might make a claim against you.
  • Delays – Delays are common in the architectural industry. Unfortunately, certain delays can result in considerable financial losses. Any financial loss could compromise your business. But if you are liable for the delay, then you may also face some legal action.
  • Accident and Injury – Construction sites can be dangerous. If you or anyone on your firm experiences any accidents or injuries during a site visit, you may face numerous costs, along with significant business downtime.

What Are The Legal Requirements For Insurance For Architects?

For architects in the UK, some forms of insurance cover are either required by UK law, or as a condition of your membership of certain professional bodies.

Professional Liability Insurance

The Architects Registration Board (ARB) and Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) require all architects in the UK to get adequate professional indemnity cover.

Professional indemnity insurance will cover you for a number of claims involving:

  • Errors and omission
  • Negligence
  • Copyright infringement
  • Intellectual property infringement

As we mentioned above, if you make an error in your design, someone may make a claim against you on the grounds of negligence. In this case, professional indemnity insurance can cover your legal costs, along with any compensation that may be due.

Employer’s Liability Insurance

All UK employers have a legal obligation to get employer’s liability insurance. This will cover your employees for any accidents and injuries they may experience while working for you, including any incidents that might take place during site visits.

Employer’s liability insurance can also cover conditions that only emerge after employees leave. For example, if an office-based employee develops RSI after years of working for you, then your employer’s liability insurance may cover any compensation they may be due.

Buildings Insurance

Finally, you may be required to get buildings insurance for your business premises as part of your leasing agreement.

This can cover the costs of repairs following fire, flood, vandalism, break-ins, and other specified insured events.

What Other Insurance Products Do Architects Need?

There are other insurance products that all architects should consider, even if you have no legal obligation to do so:

  • Public Liability Insurance – This can cover third parties, such as your clients, tradespeople, and other members of the public, for accidents and injuries they may sustain when interacting with your business in any way. For example, if a client slips or trips during a site visit, public liability insurance can cover any compensation payments and legal fees that may arise.
  • Contents Insurance – This can cover your business equipment for loss, damage, or theft. With this insurance in place, you will be covered for repairs and replacements should anything go wrong, either on your business premises, or during a site visit, or while travelling to and from projects.
  • Business Interruption Insurance – If a fire, flood, theft, or injury ever prevents you from trading, then business interruption insurance can cover all of your overheads for as long as it takes for you, and your business, to recover.
  • Cyber Insurance – Like all businesses, architects should take steps to protect themselves against the risks of cybercrime. In the event of a cyberattack, cyber insurance can cover the costs associated with securing your systems, while also helping you to support any clients that may have been affected by the incident.

Get Dedicated Architects Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your architectural business.

We will help you understand the unique risks you face as an architect or design firm, and we will help you get the tailored, comprehensive cover you need for total peace of mind.

Find out how we can help you today.

Where Can I Put My Shepherd’s Hut?
Where Can I Put My Shepherd’s Hut? 1000 666 James Hallam

If you buy a shepherd’s hut, are there any rules about where you can, and cannot, put it?

In this post we will outline the regulations, along with some best practices guidelines, for where you might put your shepherd’s hut.

Do I Need Planning Permission For a Shepherd’s Hut?

If you buy a shepherd’s hut and you intend to put it on your own land, there may be some scenarios when you do not need planning permission:

  • If the hut is just for garden use – If only you and your family will be using the hut, whether as storage space, as extra living space, or as a garden office, then you may not need planning permission.
  • If the hut is a temporary structure – If the hut is not fixed on the land – if it has wheels, for instance, or no permanent foundations – then it may be considered a temporary structure. Temporary structures typically do not require planning permission.

When Do You Need Planning Permission For a Shepherd’s Hut?

There are some occasions when you may need to get planning permission:

  • If the hut is a full-time dwelling – If the hut is to be used as a permanent or a main residence, then planning permission may be necessary.
  • If you will be letting the hut – Planning permission may also be necessary if you intend to allow members of the public to use your hut as a holiday let.
  • Boundaries and protected land – If you live in a conservation area, or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, then you may need to get planning permission for any changes you make to your property. Similarly, you may need permission if you buy a larger hut, or if you intend to place it near your property’s boundaries.

In any case, whether or not you need planning permission may ultimately depend on the local authority’s specific rules.

Read our full guide to planning permission and shepherd’s huts.

Is It Legal to Put a Shepherd’s Hut on My Own Property?

If you want to put your shepherd’s hut on your own land, first make sure it is legal for you to do so. To do this, you need to consider:

Land Ownership
You must legally own the land you intend to place the hut. If you share the land, or if you are leasing it, you will first need permission from any other landowners. And as we said above, you may need to get permission if you wish to place the hut near your property boundaries. You may also need to consider access rights, particularly if you are placing the hut on agricultural land, or near somebody else’s property.

Shepherd’s Hut Size
Generally speaking, your shepherd’s hut must not exceed 2.5 metres in height if you are placing it within two metres of a boundary. Also, the hut should not fill more than 50% of the available land outside of your house. If the size of your hut means you do not meet these requirements, then you may need to get permission before you can install the hut.

Utility Connection
If your shepherd’s hut will have gas, electricity, and running water, then you will need to ensure that everything complies with all relevant safety standards.

Shepherd’s Hut Usage
Once again, if you intend to let the hut to holidaymakers, then you may need to register the hut for business use with your local council. As part of this, you may have to ensure your hut complies with all relevant business and tax regulations for your area.

Can You Put a Shepherd’s Hut on Agricultural Land?

You can put your shepherd’s hut on agricultural land. But depending on how you intend to use the hut, you may need to get permission first.

If you will be using the hut for agricultural purposes – to store equipment, for example, or as accommodation for agricultural workers – then you may not need any permission.

Yet if you intend to use the hut for any other purposes, even if it is just as a place for you and your family to hang out, then you may need to get change of land use approval. If you want to let your home to holidaymakers, for example, you will probably have to register the land for commercial use.

Finally, as we mentioned above, if the agricultural land is part of a protected area, there may be strict regulations in place for what you can and cannot do with the land.

Contact your local authority for more information about putting shepherd’s huts on agricultural land.

Getting The Right Insurance For Your Shepherd’s Hut

The way you use your shepherd’s hut – and where you put it – can affect the sort of cover you will need for your property.

If your shepherd’s hut is in your back garden, and it is for garden use only, then it is possible that your existing home insurance policy will extend to covering your shepherd’s hut. Check your policy wording to be sure, though.

But if you will be using your shepherd’s hut for agricultural or business purposes – such as to rent it out to holidaymakers – then you will need specialist shepherd’s hut insurance to cover the added risks you will face.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in getting you the cover you need at a competitive price.

We will ensure you get full cover for your shepherd’s hut, wherever you build it, and however you use it.

Learn more about our specialist shepherd’s hut insurance and get a free quote today.

Quad Bike (ATV) Farm Uses and Equipment
Quad Bike (ATV) Farm Uses and Equipment 1000 664 James Hallam

Quad bikes and ATVs have a range of agricultural applications. In this post we will outline some of the common quad bike and ATV farm uses, along with some of the equipment that might help you make the most of your vehicle.

Why Are Quad Bikes So Useful on Farms?

Farmers and other agricultural and land workers rely on quad bikes for a variety of reasons:

  • Affordability – They cost a lot less to buy, and to run, than many other vehicles. They are highly durable and very low maintenance, meaning they can cost less to service in the long-term too.
  • Versatility – Their small size yet high traction and manoeuvrability makes them robust and reliable for a range of farmyard tasks.
  • Ease of Use – Quad bikes are relatively easy to use, and the licencing requirements are not as stringent as they are for other vehicles.

Key Quad Bike and ATV Farm Uses

  • Transport – If you have a lot of land, your quad bike or ATV can help you get from one place to another quickly and easily. Their off-road capabilities make getting around even easier. Add a trailer, and you can use your quad bike or ATV to transport tools, supplies, and equipment, or to complete fencing projects.
  • Herding – Some farmers use quad bikes and ATVs to manage their livestock – for herding, or for catching cattle for tagging and vaccinations.
  • Crop management – With the right equipment, you can use your quad bike or ATV to spread seeds, to mow and rake grass, and to harrow and plough fields.

Farm Equipment For Quad Bikes and ATVs

Certain pieces of equipment are specifically designed to help you adapt ATVs and quad bikes for agricultural work. These might include:

  • Mowers – For maintaining lawns and fields. You can get mowers to mount to the front or the back of your vehicle, along with specialist strimmers for the edges of fields. You can also attach a rake or a collector to clear land of leaves and debris prior to mowing, or to collect mown grass afterwards.
  • Diggers – Small, independently powered diggers for digging trenches or ditches, or for moving earth or gravel. Depending on your requirements, the digger can have full 360 movement, and even a cab.
  • Harrows – Available in a range of sizes to help prepare your fields for seeding.
  • Spreaders and sprayers – For spreading salt, grit, or fertiliser, and for spraying crops.
  • Trucks and trailers – For transporting tools, equipment, and materials across your land. It is also possible to get specialist forestry trailers for ATVs, some of which are capable of carrying up to two tonnes of logs.

Make sure that any equipment you use is expressly designed for use with quad bikes and ATVs. If not, the equipment might not work like it should, or it could even compromise your safety.

Is Your Quad Bike Or ATV Covered For Agricultural Use?

If you ever take your quad bike or ATV on public roads, then you have a legal duty to get at least third party vehicle insurance. But even if you are strictly using your vehicle off-road, you should still get insurance to cover your vehicle for loss, theft, or damage.

You will have to tell your insurer about any additional attachments or equipment you get for your quad bike or ATV. Some attachments may fundamentally alter the way you use your vehicle, or they may expose you or others to additional risks. This may affect the amount you pay for your cover.

Read our full guide to quad bike insurance for farmers.

Get Specialist Quad Bike Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your assets.

We provide specialist ATV insurance if you use your vehicle in connection with agricultural work or shoots. You can also get additional benefits if you are a BASC member.

Learn more about our dedicated ATV and quad bike insurance services.

 

Top Targeted Industries For Cyber Attacks
Top Targeted Industries For Cyber Attacks 1000 620 James Hallam

2024 UK Government statistics showed that 50% of all UK businesses experienced some form of cybersecurity breach or cyberattack over the previous 12 months. The figure was much higher for medium businesses (70%) and for large businesses (74%).

No matter how big your business, and no matter what sector you are in, you are at risk of cybercrime. However, criminals might be more likely to target some industries over others.

What Are The Top Targeted Industries For Cyber Attacks?

According to data from the World Economic Forum, the top targeted industries for cyberattacks are:

  • Healthcare (accounting for 14.2% of all attacks)
  • Financial organisations
  • Telecommunications
  • Transport companies
  • Energy companies

The WEF defines these sectors as “critical infrastructure”. Cybercriminals are most likely to target such sectors because it is here where they are most likely to access huge amounts of valuable confidential data. Also, some cybercriminals are simply looking to cause chaos, and targeting critical infrastructures is an obvious way to cause as much damage as possible.

Top Targeted Businesses For Cyberattack in the UK

In the UK, sectors which appear to be particularly vulnerable to cyber attacks are:

  • HR
  • Recruitment
  • Manufacturing
  • Hospitality

Businesses in these sectors will process lots of sensitive customer and client data. They’ll run on a network of laptops, smartphones, and tablets, offering multiple areas of attack for cybercriminals.

Plus, businesses in these sectors may be less likely to have invested in cybersecurity, meaning that they may be ill-prepared to effectively respond to a cyberattack.

For a case study in how cybercriminals may target a business in the hospitality sector, consider Marriott’s 2018 data breach. Criminals accessed nearly 400 million customer records, including 9.1 million credit card numbers and over 23 million passport numbers, resulting in huge regulatory fines and restoration costs for the chain.

The Most Common Types of Cyberattacks

According to the UK Government’s latest cybersecurity survey, these are the most common forms of cyberattacks in the UK:

  • Phishing – 84% of businesses have experienced a phishing attack. This usually involves cybercriminals sending an email that appears to come from a trusted, genuine source, such as a bank, or an online retailer. This message will prompt the recipient to take action, usually by clicking a link. But clicking this link could give cybercriminals access to your system.
  • Social Engineering – 35% of businesses have experienced social engineering attacks. This is similar to phishing, in that the cybercriminals will send messages that appear to come from a trusted source. But in this case, they may impersonate a trusted individual, such as a manager or a tech support worker, in order to trick recipients into sharing sensitive data such as passwords.
  • Malware – 17% of businesses have experienced a malware attack. Malware is malicious software that can give cybercriminals access to your system. Particularly damaging for businesses are ransomware attacks. With ransomware, cybercriminals can encrypt your systems or your data and demand a payment to remove the encryption. If the business does not pay this “ransom”, the cybercriminal may delete the data, or they may sell it to other cybercriminals.

Consider Your “Cyber Hygiene”

Because most cyber threats are comparatively unsophisticated, the UK Government advises businesses to protect themselves through adopting some “cyber hygiene” measures.

These include:

  • Installing effective antivirus and malware protection, and keeping this software up to date.
  • Restricting admin rights and enforcing robust password policies and authentication systems.
  • Imposing network firewalls, and secure cloud back-up for the most valuable business data.
  • Staff training on spotting phishing emails, with an agreed process in place for responding to them.

Specialist Cyber Insurance For Your Business

Finally, specialist cyber insurance can give your business the cover you need to effectively respond to cyberattacks and data breaches.

Though your insurance will not prevent attacks and breaches from taking place, your cover will prove invaluable if you ever fall victim to cybercrime. Your policy can cover the costs associated with managing and securing the breach, along with any compensation that may be due.

Read our full guide to how cyber insurance works, and what it covers.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with access to a hand-picked selection of A-rated insurance providers. We can help your business find the cyber insurance you need at the best possible price.

Get in touch for a free quote today.

 

What Happens If I Do Not Have Catering Insurance?
What Happens If I Do Not Have Catering Insurance? 1000 665 James Hallam

Catering insurance can cover your business for many of the unique risks associated with preparing and serving food and drink to the public. On top of this, your catering insurance policy can cover you for some of the risks faced by all businesses in all sectors, such as loss or theft of your equipment.

You do have a legal obligation to get some forms of cover. But beyond this, catering insurance is entirely optional. However, in this post we will outline what might happen if you do not have catering insurance, to highlight how dedicated cover is something no caterer should do without.

What Insurance Do Caterers Need By Law?

Employer’s liability insurance is a legal obligation for any businesses that employ staff. This will cover any compensation payments that may arise should any of your employees sustain any illnesses or injuries while working for you.

Even if you just employ your friends or family, you still need to get employer’s liability insurance. Failure to do so could result in hefty fines from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – this can be up to £2,500 per day for each day that your business goes without adequate cover.

Buildings insurance may also be required for your business premises as part of your mortgage or leasing agreement. This can cover the costs of repairs if your premises are ever damaged by fire, flood, theft, vandalism, or other events.

Mobile catering businesses, such as a catering van, you will also need to get at least third party insurance for every vehicle you use as part of your business.

What Happens If I Do Not Have Catering Insurance?

Apart from the forms of cover we listed above, you have no legal obligation to get any kind of catering insurance. However, without adequate cover, even the smallest setback could quickly spiral into a huge issue with the potential to sink your business entirely.

Think about the following situations:

  • Loss of stock – A power cut in the night could cause your fridges and freezers to fail. When you arrive at your premises in the morning, you find that all of your stock is ruined. You will not be able to trade that day, and you will have to order new stock before you can open again.
  • Premises damage – A fire or a flood could cause significant damage to your business premises. If you have buildings insurance, you may be covered for repairs. But will not be able to trade again until the repairs are complete. How will you manage with the loss of income in the meantime?
  • Equipment loss – A major piece of equipment is lost, damaged, or stolen. Could you get by without it? Would you be able to afford a replacement?
  • Customer compensation – A customer gets food poisoning having eaten food prepared on your premises. If they take legal action against you, would you be able to afford the legal fees, and the possible compensation payments?

Catering Insurance Would Cover You For All of These Scenarios, and More

The above situations might seem unlikely, but they are the sort of things that could happen to any catering business. And unless you have adequate cover in place, any one of these scenarios would have the potential to ruin your business.

The following insurance products could give you total peace of mind that you would be covered for all of these situations, and more:

  • Public and Product Liability Insurance – This can cover most accidents, injuries, and illnesses members of the public may sustain as a result of interacting with your business. This can include claims arising from cases of food poisoning or allergic reactions.
  • Contents Insurance – This can cover for your cooking equipment and furnishings, along with your stock and your ingredients. In cases of loss, damage, or theft, your insurance can cover the costs of repairs or replacements.
  • Business Interruption Insurance – If a fire, a flood, or a similar event means you are temporarily unable to trade, business interruption insurance can cover all of your overheads for as long as it takes things to get back to normal.

Get Specialist Catering Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with access to a hand-picked selection of A-rated insurance providers.

We know that no two catering businesses are quite the same. This is why we take the time to get to know our clients, so that we can design a catering insurance package that truly meets your needs at a competitive price.

Get in touch for a free quote today.

Issues and Challenges Facing the Restaurant Industry
Issues and Challenges Facing the Restaurant Industry 1000 667 James Hallam

The restaurant industry is going through some trying times. Recent industry figures suggest that 10 restaurants closed every day over the course of 12 months. This means that in one year, the total number of licensed premises in the UK fell by 3.6%, from 103,682 to 99,916.

In this post we will discuss some of the major issues and challenges currently facing the restaurant industry.

Hospitality Staff Shortages

For some years now, there has been talk of a staffing crisis in the UK hospitality industry. In early 2024, the industry has a staff shortfall of 107,000. This was an improvement over the peak of 176,000 the industry experienced post lockdown in 2022. But this figure was still high enough to make hospitality the third worst sector for staff shortfalls, after healthcare and retail.

Staff shortages impact service quality, which may compound issues for restaurants: If customers are not satisfied with their service, then they may be less likely to return to the restaurant. They may also leave a bad review, which could mean the restaurant will struggle to attract any new customers. Dissatisfied customers may even choose to dine and dash in protest.

What are restaurants doing to tackle staff shortages?

Some restaurants and bars have turned to tech to try and address the staffing crisis. Self-service terminals and QR menus, for example, can automate certain processes, meaning that the staff may feel less strained and better able to focus on delivering a good customer service. Other restaurants are addressing their recruitment and onboarding processes in order to better attract and retain staff.

Rising Restaurant Costs

The UK’s “cost of living crisis” has hit every sector. For restaurants, rising energy bills and the growing cost of food and drink has led to increased overheads, which many restaurants will struggle to afford.

Poor crops, supply chain issues and, most recently, import tariffs, have all resulted in food inflation. This will hit restaurants twice: Buying stock will become more expensive but, as their customers will also feel the pinch, they may experience fewer sales too. A combination of rising costs and falling sales can spell doom for any business in any industry.

What are restaurants doing to tackle rising costs?

To address these rising costs, some restaurants have chosen to tweak their menus. In some cases, this is simply a case of raising prices. But seasonal menus and a focus on local ingredients can help lower costs for both you and your customers, as it means your stock will be less vulnerable to crop issues and supply chain problems.

Technology and Cyber Threats

In recent years, technological advances have driven a rise in home delivery orders. In 2024, the UK food delivery market was valued at £3.8 billion, and was forecasted to rise by 15.2% over the following five years.

When ordering online, customers expect high quality food, delivered quickly. Many restaurants have restructured their business to meet these changing customer preferences and expectations. For some restaurants, this has meant shifting from traditional table service to a dedicated food delivery service, where processes that once conducted face-to-face are now conducted almost entirely online.

Embracing tech may have enabled restaurants to meet changing customer expectations, but at the same time, it may have made them more vulnerable to cybercrime. The more processes that are conducted online, the more possible vulnerabilities there are for cybercriminals to target.

What are restaurants doing to tackle cyber threats?

In response to this, restaurants should consider bespoke cybersecurity technologies to help keep their systems, and their customers, safe. Tailored cyber insurance can also help restaurants recover from the many costs they may incur as a result of a cyberattack.

We Can Help You Safeguard Your Restaurant Through These Trying Times

We know that times are tough for restaurants. This is why we are committed to protecting your business.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with access to a hand-picked selection of A-rated insurance providers. We can help you get a specialist restaurant insurance package that truly meets your needs at a competitive price. Our restaurant insurance can include cyber cover, which will help you withstand the growing threat of cybercrime.

Get in touch for a free quote today.

 

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