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Safety Tips For Navigating Crowded Waterways
Safety Tips For Navigating Crowded Waterways 1000 667 James Hallam

UK waterways can get crowded, especially during the busy summer months.

In this post we will discuss some safety tips for navigating crowded waterways during high season, to help you avoid stress, arguments, and potential damages to your boat and others.

Who Has Right of Way on UK Waterways?

Which Side To Pass Other Boats
On UK waterways, you should navigate on the right (starboard) side, as opposed to the left (port) side, as you would on UK roads.

Wind-powered Boats vs. Engines
There are also certain international regulations determining what types of vessels have right of way on the water. Generally speaking, wind-powered boats have right of way over boats powered by engines, due to their comparatively limited manoeuvrability.

Large Vessels vs Smaller Vessels
Larger vessels also tend to take priority over smaller vessels, mainly because smaller vessels can easily move around larger vessels, which may struggle to correct course.

However, these regulations largely apply to vessels at sea. Local authorities may set their own regulations concerning right of way, and other issues. So before you use any waterways, make sure you familiarise yourself with the local laws.

Stand-On and Give-Way

Whenever two or more vessels encounter each other on any waterway, it is important to consider the “stand-on” vs. “give-way” concept:

  • The stand-on vessel should maintain its speed, and its course.
  • The give-way vessel should adjust its speed and course accordingly so as to avoid a collision.

As we mentioned above, different types of vessels may take priority on waterways. As a general rule of thumb, larger vessels, and those powered solely by wind, should be viewed as stand-on vessels, as it will be harder for such boats to alter their course. Meanwhile, smaller vessels, and those powered by engines, will be viewed as give-way vessels, as they will find it easier to manoeuvre.

But once again, certain waterways may impose their own regulations. For example, all boats may be required to give priority to commercial vessels and local trip boats. And if a waterway is used for certain types of water sports, then this activity may take priority over other types of boating.

Safety and Courtesy for Passing Other Vessels

What if you encounter a similar type of boat to yours? Who will take priority then? For example, what happens when two canalboats need to pass on a waterway?

Technically, neither boat will have priority in this situation. So instead of thinking about right of way, instead aim to follow some general safety and courtesy procedures:

  • Keep your distance from all other boats. Be aware of your boat’s capabilities, and always give yourself enough space and time to react to potential collisions.
  • Follow any speed restrictions on the waterways, and try to keep your speed consistent so that other waterway users can anticipate your actions.
  • If you find yourself on a narrow or crowded waterway, slow down and try to avoid making any abrupt movements.
  • Keep a careful lookout for particularly vulnerable vessels and individuals on the waterway, such as swimmers, canoes, and kayaks.
  • Stick to any designated channels or courses for your particular vessel, as this can help to avoid any unexpected encounters. Also try to stick to one side of the waterway, so that other vessels can easily pass on the other side.
  • Plot your course carefully to avoid any potentially unsuitable or overcrowded channels, and to prevent sudden course changes.
  • Try to stay on your course, and try to avoid U-turns, as these can quickly create bottlenecks and other problems.

Understanding the Water

It is also important to understand the specific nature of the water you are sailing on.

If you are boating on river, a lake, or at sea, then you might have more room to manoeuvre. However, you will also have currents to contend with, and you may sometimes have to deal with turbulent waters. These factors will affect your turning circle, and potentially your speed.

On tidal waters, navigation lights may also be compulsory, so that you can easily communicate your intentions to other vessels.

If you are boating on a marine, or canal, then you may not have to deal with tides, currents, and waves. However, you may have to contend with narrower channels, and potentially more congestion.

Prepare For Emergencies

No matter what sort of waterway you are on, it is important to ensure your vessel is equipped with all of the essential safety equipment in case of emergencies.

You will need a suitable anchor and chain, to stop yourself from drifting in the event of engine failure. Make sure everyone onboard has a life jacket, or access to a life ring or life buoy. Also ensure that everyone has a basic understanding of water safety, and on what to do in case of emergency.

Make sure you have enough fuel for every journey you undertake, to avoid getting stranded. It may also be a good idea to pack flares, so that you can signal to other boats, or a VHF radio to communicate with coastguards and other emergency services.

Get The Right Cover For Your Boat This Summer

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 boat for potential collisions and other emergencies all year round.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

Avoiding Overheating Boat Engine and Equipment Failure in the Summer
Avoiding Overheating Boat Engine and Equipment Failure in the Summer 1000 667 James Hallam

An overheating boat engine is one of the biggest risks associated with the summer season. In this post we will discuss how you can maintain your boat engine during the summer, with tips on what you should do if your engine starts overheating.

What Causes Engine Overheating?

Boat engines can overheat at any time of the year, but overheating is more likely in the summer. This is because:

  • Strain on the engine: You are more likely to use your boat for extended periods over the summer, and with shorter breaks between each use. Over time, this can put a strain on the engine and its components.
  • High Temperatures: Higher temperatures in the summer months can mean that the engine’s cooling systems have to work harder, which can eventually make them less effective.
  • Shallow waters: The specific waters in which you use your boat can also increase the risks of your engine overheating. Shallow waters, for example, can cause sediment to enter your engine’s cooling systems, which can affect their performance. Plus, if there is a lot of debris or vegetation about, it can clog your engine’s water intake, which can also affect the effectiveness of your cooling system.
  • Saltwater: If you take your vessel out to sea, saltwater can, over time, block your engines cooling systems, which can eventually lead to overheating.

Understanding Your Engine And Cooling System

Getting to know your engine and cooling system is key to understanding and preventing overheating.

Outboard engines
These are water-cooled. The engine draws in water through an inlet before discharging it from the tell-tale. If the cooling system is operating, there should be a small stream of water emanating from the tell-tale while the engine is running.

Inboard engines and stern drive engines
Like cars and other road vehicles, these may rely on engine coolant, along with a heat exchanger that relies on a flow of raw water to keep cool. Or, they might be entirely water-cooled, via thru-hull fittings or a special strainer for saltwater.

Air-cooled engines
Certain smaller outboard engines are air-cooled, rather than water-cooled. The engines feature passages allowing for a flow of air. Excessive loads or blockages can place a strain on these systems.

How To Tell If Your Engine is Overheating

There are some obvious signs that your engine is overheating:

  • Steam might start emanating from the engine compartment.
  • A strong smell of burning.
  • The engine may sound strained.
  • Temperature gauge rising into the red.

Depending on the specific type of engine your boat uses, there might be other early warning signs that things are starting to overheat. If you have a water-cooled system, for instance, look out for a reduced flow from the system’s tell-tale. Some engines will display warning lights if the coolant engines are running too low. And most engines will experience performance issues if they get too hot.

What To Do If Your Engine Starts Overheating

  • Turn off your engine immediately. Set the throttle to idle, and stop wherever it is safe to do so. The longer you run an overheating engine, the worse the damage will be, and the more the repairs will cost you.
  • Give the engine at least 30 minutes to cool.
  • Check the system for faults. Pay particular attention to the coolant levels, and top them up if need be. Also check for blockages wherever they may develop, such as in the outboard water intakes, the thru-hull fittings, or the air intakes.
  • Aim to get your engine system fully inspected and, if necessary, fully serviced before you take to the water again. You should certainly get professional help if your engine will not start again after overheating, or if you notice any visible signs of damage to the cooling system.

How to Prevent Engine Overheating

Regular maintenance will help you prevent your engine overheating.

Read the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on regular engine maintenance, and make sure you carry essential maintenance equipment, and spare parts as necessary. Regularly monitor your engine’s coolant levels, and keep an eye on the temperature gauges whenever you are running your boat.

Regular cleaning can also help prevent engine overheating, as it can prevent blockages from developing. For seagoing vessels, you should regularly flush your cooling system to remove any blockages caused by saltwater.

Be sure to read our full guide to mid-season boat checks and maintenance that will help keep your boat in full working order throughout the summer and beyond.

Get The Right Cover For Your Boat This Summer

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 boat all year round.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.

Beach Hut Maintenance Checklist for the Summer
Beach Hut Maintenance Checklist for the Summer 1000 667 James Hallam

Regular maintenance will keep your beach hut clean and pleasant all year round. Maintenance can also help to protect your beach hut from the elements, which is why some insurers specify how you should care for your beach hut as a requirement of their beach hut insurance policies.

In this post we will discuss an essential beach hut maintenance for the summer, which will help you enjoy your hut throughout the winter while keeping it safe through the colder months of the year.

Beach Hut Summer Maintenance For the Beginning of the Season

If you’re using your beach hut for the first time since last year, you might find that you need to do some essential maintenance before you can use your hut this summer:

  • Thoroughly clean your hut both inside and out. Sweep out any sand that may have accumulated, dust all the surfaces, and give the walls a scrub.
  • Open the doors along with any windows to air out your hut, and to help prevent mould and mildew.
  • Oil any hinges to help prevent rust. Also look for any signs of rust and corrosion on metal surfaces, and apply an anti-rust coating if necessary.
  • Consider decluttering your hut. Are there any items you don’t use, or don’t need, anymore? Is there anything you need to repair or replace?
  • If your hut has an outdoor deck, apply a fresh coat of wood stain or sealer.

Beach Hut Safety Checks For Summer

  • Check that all of the hut’s locks work, and replace or repair any components as necessary.
  • Look for any loose components and aim to get them repaired as soon as possible.
  • Consider stocking your hut with essential safety equipment, including sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher.
  • Consider installing a smoke alarm, and even a burglar alarm, to address the risks of fires or break-ins.

How Often Should I Repaint My Beach Hut?

If possible, give your hut a fresh coat of paint once a year – ideally in spring, before the summer season starts.

Beach huts can take a battering over the winter, as the temperatures drop and the likelihood of severe weather increases. But all year round, salty air can affect any paint job.

Regularly painting your beach hut will help keep it looking and feeling fresh, while also offering ongoing protection against the elements. Plus, thieves and vandals may be less likely to target a hut that looks colourful and pristine, as it can suggest that the hut is regularly used and regularly monitored.

Just note that the local council may set certain requirements for the colours you can use for your hut.

As well as refreshing your hut with a coat or two of paint, you could also look for ways to revitalise the interior. This could be with a new rug, new cushions, or new curtains.

Specialist Beach Hut Insurance From James Hallam

As we mentioned above, you may be required to carry out certain annual maintenance tasks as part of your beach hut insurance.

The summer might be a good 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 ensure you get full cover for your beach hut, no matter its size or location, and no matter how you use it.

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

 

How Do I Insure an Unoccupied Property?
How Do I Insure an Unoccupied Property? 1000 667 James Hallam

Most home insurance policies will only cover “occupied” properties. If a property is unoccupied for a certain period of time, the policy may no longer provide the cover you need.

In this post we will discuss how you can insure an unoccupied property, to give you peace of mind that you will be fully covered even when there is nobody currently occupying the property.

Unoccupied Property vs. Vacant Property

An unoccupied property is one that was previously inhabited, but which does not currently have any inhabitants. This could be as a result of a homeowner passing away.

A “vacant” property, is a property that is completely empty with no current occupants. For example, a new build home that is yet to be bought, or a rental property that is seeking tenants, will be classed as a “vacant” property rather than an “unoccupied” property.

Read our full guide to the difference between unoccupied and vacant properties.

When Does a Property Become Unoccupied?

As we mentioned above, a property might become unoccupied when its owner passes away, and when there is nobody else currently living at the house.

Yet insurers will also consider a property to be unoccupied if it is left empty for a certain period of time. This could be as little as 30 consecutive days.

For this reason, if you have a second home that you only use at certain times of the year, or if you leave your main property for an extended period, your property may eventually be considered “unoccupied”. At this point, your home insurance will no longer cover you.

How Do I Insure an Unoccupied Property?

You can get specialist unoccupied home insurance if your property will be unoccupied for an extended period of time, for reasons such as:

  • You are travelling for an extended period, or you need long-term residential healthcare.
  • You are moving in with your partner, but you have not yet sold your own home.
  • When selling your home, or getting renovations done, you choose to live elsewhere.
  • You buy a new home, but you are unable to move into it for the time being.
  • You own a second home or holiday home, which you only use for certain months of the year.

What If My Property Will Be Unoccupied for Not Much Longer Than 30 Days?

If you will be leaving your home unoccupied for a shorter period of time – longer than 30 days, but not so long as to justify a dedicated unoccupied home insurance policy – then you may be able to get an extension on your current policy’s absence period. Contact your insurer, or check your policy wording, for more information.

What Does Unoccupied Home Insurance Cover?

Unoccupied home insurance will usually offer the same cover as you would get with a standard home insurance policy. However, there may be some exceptions to the cover.

For example, if you will be leaving your home unoccupied while renovations take place, then unoccupied home insurance may not cover you for damages that arise from the renovations, or for damages caused by contractors.

And while unoccupied home insurance will cover you for break-ins and theft, it may not cover you for “unforced entry”. So if you accidentally leave a window or door open, you will not be able to claim for any resulting theft.

Probate Home Insurance

When someone passes away, if they leave a will, an executor will work to ensure that the deceased’s estate is settled. This process is known as probate.

If there is any property in the will, the executor may choose to sell it. Alternatively, the will may stipulate that a relative, or another beneficiary, shall inherit the house.

In any case, nothing can proceed until the probate process is complete. This means that the property may remain unoccupied for as long as it takes to complete probate. As the entire process can take up to a year, this can cause some issues with the home insurance.

A dedicated probate home insurance property can cover the unoccupied property throughout the probate process. The policy might specify that you take certain steps to secure the property throughout the process, and it may also require you to periodically check on the property.

Get Specialist Insurance For Your Unoccupied Property From James Hallam

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

Whether you need to cover a property throughout the probate process, or you need to dedicated cover for your property throughout an extended period of absence, we can help you get the specialist cover you need at a competitive price. We can also help you secure comprehensive cover for a second home or a holiday home.

Learn more about our expert private insurance services here.

 

How to Stop Shoplifters and Prevent Theft From Shops
How to Stop Shoplifters and Prevent Theft From Shops 1000 667 James Hallam

We recently published a guide to creating and implanting shoplifting policies and procedures for your retail business.

In this post we will share some additional practical tips to help you reduce shoplifting from your store.

How to Reduce Shoplifting In Store

Perform Regular Stock Checks

Regular stock checks will help you understand the scale of shoplifting in your store. They may also help you to identify which products in your store thieves are most likely to target. If you understand this, then you will know where to prioritise your anti-theft measures.

Consider Your Store Layout

  • Place the till as close to the door as possible. This way, no potential thieves will be able to enter or leave the store unobserved.
  • Keep your layout as simple and straightforward as possible. This will eliminate any blindspots where thieves could operate.
  • Make sure any high value items, or any items that you think thieves are most likely to target, are within sight of the main till.
  • You could also install security mirrors to let your staff see as much of the store as possible without leaving the till area.

Security Features

  • Get CCTV coverage for your store’s front entrance, for the till area, for your stock rooms, and for any areas where you store or display high value items.
  • Place signs notifying visitors that you have CCTV in place. This can help deter opportunistic thieves.
  • Consider installing facial recognition software, which could help you identify repeat offenders, and take appropriate action.
  • Consider placing your most valuable stock in locked cabinets, or behind the till. This way, customers will have to ask staff directly to view them.
  • Use electronic article surveillance (EAS) tags, and other anti-theft devices, which can deter potential thieves while also alerting you immediately to any attempted theft.

Staff Interactions and Customer Service

Your staff are your first line of defence against shoplifters. They can help identify and report instances of shoplifting, and they may even be able to prevent certain thefts from taking place. Staff safety should remain a priority, though. You should never expect your staff to expose themselves to any unnecessary risk.

Members of staff could use customer service techniques to deter thieves. If they notice a customer acting suspiciously, they could approach them and ask if they can be of any assistance. This will let the potential thief know that their actions have been noted, which might make them reconsider the theft.

Think about your staffing levels, too. Thieves often take advantage of busy periods, as they know that when the majority of staff are busy, their crimes will go unobserved. It is also common for thieves to work in pairs, with one distracting your staff while the other lifts items, out of sight. So, take note of your busy times and schedule shifts accordingly. And if possible, try to ensure that nobody ever has to work a shift alone.

Get The Right Insurance For Your Retail Store

Specialist retail shop insurance can help protect your store from many of the risks you face. A comprehensive policy may not prevent shoplifting, but it can give you the cover you need to bounce back from any major disruptions or disasters.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your store. We can help you get specialist retail shop insurance, which can help your business bounce back from any significant losses.

Find out how we can help your shop today.

What Insurance Do 24 Hour Gyms Need?
What Insurance Do 24 Hour Gyms Need? 1000 666 James Hallam

Gyms face a number of risks that many other businesses will never have to think about. For 24 hour gyms, these risks can be particularly pronounced.

In this post we will outline the insurance products you should consider if you are running a 24 hour gym.

What Insurance Do 24 Hour Gyms Need, By Law?

If you have any employees, then you have a legal obligation to get employer’s liability insurance. This covers your staff for any accidents and injuries they may sustain in their line of work.

However, some 24 hour gyms run unsupervised round the clock. In this case, you may not have the legal requirement to get employer’s liability insurance.

Yet even if you have no legal responsibilities to get cover, you should still consider getting comprehensive insurance for your 24 hour gym. If anything goes wrong, you could incur significant costs. And without adequate cover, you will be responsible for meeting these costs yourself.

Common Risks For 24 Hour Gyms

Some 24 hour gyms are unsupervised and unattended throughout the night. Others are unsupervised 24/7. This can expose the gym to a number of risks:

  • Thieves or vandals could target the gym when they know there are no staff on the premises. They could cause thousands of pounds worth of damages, or steal a large amount of valuable equipment.
  • A customer could injure themselves on the premises. If this injury was caused by faulty equipment, they may make a claim of negligence against you.
  • Fire, flood, theft, or a similar occurrence could temporarily prevent access to your gym, forcing you to close. If you are open round the clock, every hour your gym is closed will eat into your profits. Some members may request refunds, too, if they cannot access your gym when they need to.

Reducing Risks for 24 Hour Gyms

You will need to find ways to keep your business and your customers safe for any period during which your gym is unsupervised. Security systems, remote support systems, ongoing cleaning, maintenance, and repairs, along with thorough onboarding processes for both staff and members can help reduce some of the above risks from occurring.

But if something does go wrong, the right insurance can cover you for any losses you may experience, or costs you may incur.

What Insurance Do 24 Hour Gyms Need?

Public Liability Insurance

This will cover your members, as well as any other members of the public, for any accidents and injuries they may sustain while using your gym, as well as any damage to their property. If they make a claim of negligence against you, your liability insurance can cover your legal fees, as well as any compensation that may be due.

Buildings and Contents Insurance

You may be required to get buildings insurance as part of your leasing agreement. But even if not, this is essential cover to consider. It can cover you for the risk of damage from fire, flooding, break-ins, and vandalism.

Contents insurance, on the other hand, can cover your gym equipment for loss, theft, or damage. Contents insurance can also cover any additional fixtures, fittings, or furniture, whether they are located inside or outside your gym.

Business Interruption Insurance

As we mentioned above, if you are temporarily unable to open your gym, you may incur significant costs through lost income, and as a result of refund requests from your members. Business interruption insurance can cover any loss of profit you might experience if you need to close your premises due to an unexpected event.

Get Specialist 24 Hour Gym 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 can help you understand the unique risks you face as a 24 hour gym, and we can also tailor a comprehensive insurance package to cover you for these risks at the best price.

Find out how we can help you today.

 

How Much is Restaurant Insurance in the UK?
How Much is Restaurant Insurance in the UK? 1000 667 James Hallam

In this post we will outline the numerous factors that can affect the amount you pay for restaurant insurance in the UK, to give you a general idea of how much you might pay for your policy.

What is the Average Cost of Restaurant Insurance in the UK?

So many factors can affect the cost of restaurant insurance that, rather than considering ballpark figures, it is much better to get a quote of your own.

Depending on your unique situation, you could pay as little as £500 a year for your restaurant insurance. However, many restaurants will pay much more for their cover, potentially up to £3,500 to £4,000 a year.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Restaurant Insurance?

  • Your location – Some areas have higher crime rates than others, which can affect your premiums. You may also pay higher premiums if your restaurant is located on a floodplain.
  • Your size – The bigger your restaurant, then the more customers you will serve, and the more you will pay for cover. Your annual turnover can also affect the price you pay for your restaurant insurance.
  • The cover you get – When taking out restaurant insurance, you may be able to choose exactly what sort of cover you get. The broader the cover you choose, the more you will pay.
  • The liability you choose – When taking out your policy, you may also be able to specify the amount of cover you get. You can set a cash value for the maximum amount of buildings cover you receive, for example. This too can affect the price of your policy.

What Does Restaurant Insurance Cover?

A restaurant insurance policy can provide the following core areas of cover:

  • Public liability insurance – To cover your customers and other members of the public for any accidents, illnesses, or injuries that may take place while they are on your premises.
  • Employer’s liability insurance – To provide the same sort of cover, but for your staff. Please note that, if you employ any staff, you have a legal duty to get employer’s liability insurance.
  • Buildings insurance – To cover your restaurant premises against damage from fire, flood, vandalism, and break-ins.
  • Contents insurance – To cover your stock, your equipment, and any fixtures, fittings, and furnishings for loss, theft, or damage.
  • Product liability insurance – This can cover cases of food poisoning or other illnesses that may arise from food or drink you serve on your premises.

How To Reduce The Cost Of Your Restaurant Insurance

  • Staff training – Regular staff training can reduce accidents, which could help to lower your premiums.
  • Safety and security features – Install locks, CCTV, and alarms to help prevent theft. Smoke alarms and sprinklers can help prevent the spread of fires.
  • Choose your cover carefully – If you get less comprehensive cover, or specify lower cover limits, then you can save money on the price of your premium. Take care though, as if you ever need to make a claim on your policy, limited cover could leave you out of pocket.
  • Compare quotes – Not all insurers will charge the same for cover. Get a few quotes for your restaurant insurance, but do not be tempted to simply choose the cheapest cover. The most important thing is that you get the cover you need.
  • Use an insurance broker – An insurance broker will take the time to understand your restaurant and your insurance requirements. They can then help you get cover that meets all of your needs, including your budget.

Get Specialist Restaurant 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 restaurant.

We can help you get the cover you need at a truly competitive price. We will ensure that there are no risky gaps in your cover, and that you are not paying excessively for cover you may never need.

Learn more about our specialist insurance services here.

 

 

Dine and Dash – How to Prevent it in Your Restaurant
Dine and Dash – How to Prevent it in Your Restaurant 1000 667 James Hallam

Dine and dash is when customers leave a restaurant without paying for their meal. In UK law this is recognised as a form of theft.

Dine and dash appears to be a growing issue in the UK, with around a third of hospitality businesses claiming to have experienced it. It can seriously eat into a restaurant’s profits, while also having a demoralising effect on staff.

In this post we will explore some techniques for preventing dine and dash theft in your restaurant.

Why Do Customers Dine and Dash?

If you can understand how and why dine and dash happens, you will know what steps you can take to address the issue.

There are a number of reasons customers might dine and dash:

  • Spontaneously: Some customers do it for the thrill of it, as a spontaneous decision.
  • Planned: Others will plan their dine and dash attempt in advance, meaning they will choose their moment to leave carefully – when the restaurant is busy, the staff are distracted, and they can slip out unnoticed.
  • Protest: Customers may leave without paying as an act of protest over receiving poor customer service, or because they feel they have waited too long to get the bill.
  • Affordability: Customers may decide to leave when they eventually get the bill, and realise they cannot afford to pay.

Ways to Prevent Dine and Dash in Your Restaurant

Here are some measures you can introduce to prevent dine and dash in your restaurant:

Hosts and Other Front of House Staff

Make one member of staff your restaurant’s host. It is their job to maintain a presence at the front of the establishment to welcome new customers, and to see off customers at the end of their meal.

If there is a member of staff constantly stationed at the front of your restaurant, any customers considering a dine and dash may reconsider, as there will be a greater chance of getting caught.

Floor Plan

Consider your restaurant’s floor plan to encourage customers to only enter and leave through a single point, and to maximise the line of sight for your staff.

This will make it harder for customers to slip out unnoticed, while also ensuring that your staff can keep an eye on all tables, even during busy periods.

Staff Training

Inform your staff of the risks of dine and dash. If it has happened before in your restaurant, take the time to analyse how the customers managed to get away with it, so that you and your staff can identify any possible warning signs.

Your training could also cover how your staff can deliver a high quality, efficient service even when the restaurant is packed. This could save your customers from having to wait too long for their bills.

Finally, remember that some customers choose to leave without paying as a form of protest, when they think they have received poor service. In this way, good customer service can itself help to prevent dine and dash. Plus, if your staff can build a rapport with your customers, they may be more likely to recall their appearance should you ever have to investigate a case of dine and dash.

Reservation Systems

Implement a strict booking system, and request certain customer details as part of the reservation. Ask for a name, a contact number, and consider taking a deposit payment too.

These measures could deter potential dine and dashers, as you will have a means of tracing any perpetrators. Even if the customers give you false details, they will still provide a lead for a subsequent police investigation.

Payment Systems

If you are running a pub or a smaller café, it may be acceptable to request customer payments in advance. This, of course, will make dine and dash crime impossible.

Yet in most restaurants, customers expect to pay after their meal. And as we have seen, some customers will choose to leave if they feel they have waited too long to pay.

Find ways to streamline your payment process. This is another area where staff training can help, but you could also look to technology to help you, with handheld POS devices for card payments, or QR codes on the tables to allow customers to pay their bills in their own time.

CCTV and Signage

CCTV can cover any potential blindspots in your restaurant, making it harder for customers to leave unnoticed. Placing signs to notify customers of your cameras can act as a strong deterrent to dine and dashers – they may be much less likely to attempt to leave if they know they are on camera.

If your CCTV does not help prevent dine and dash crime in your restaurant, it can at least help you identify the customers afterwards, which may mean you can recover your losses.

Get Dedicated Restaurant 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 restaurant.

We can help you get the cover you need at a truly competitive price. While restaurant insurance cannot itself prevent dine and dash crime, it may help you recover from any profit losses you experience as a result of theft.

Learn more about our specialist insurance services here.

 

 

Accountants Insurance Requirements – What Insurance Do You Need?
Accountants Insurance Requirements – What Insurance Do You Need? 1000 666 James Hallam

Accountancy is high risk work, and if anything goes wrong, the potential losses for you and your clients can be significant. In this post we will outline the key insurance cover you should get for your accountancy firm, to help protect you, your business, and your clients’ assets.

To begin with, we shall outline the forms of cover that you may be required to get, by law.

Legally Required Insurance for Accountants

You have a legal requirement to get certain forms of cover for your accountancy business, such as:

Employers Liability Insurance: If you employ any staff, then you must get employer’s liability insurance. This will cover your employees for any accidents, injuries, or illnesses they may sustain while in your employment.

Regulatory Requirements: Financial regulation bodies may require you to get certain forms of liability cover as a condition of your registration. They may specify a certain level of cover in accordance with your income. You may also be required to get buildings cover as part of your leasing agreement on your business premises.

Essential Insurance for Accountants

While accountants may not be legally required to hold certain forms of insurance, it is still essential for you to hold cover critical to protect you and your clients. This includes:

Professional Indemnity Insurance For Accountants

Professional Indemnity insurance is vital for accountants. Your clients trust you with their money, and they rely on your advice and expertise to make sound financial decisions. If anything goes wrong, they may make a claim against you, on the grounds of negligence, error or omission, or similar.

In this case, professional indemnity insurance can cover your legal costs, as well as any compensation your client may be due. Without this cover, you would be liable to meet these considerable expenses yourself.

Professional indemnity insurance is such a critical form of cover for accountants that some clients may refuse to work with you unless you have a comprehensive policy in place.

Public Liability Insurance

This can cover members of the public for any accidents or injuries they may sustain while visiting your business premises. The cover can extend to your clients and customers, as well as contractors, delivery drivers, and more.

This form of cover is particularly important if you regularly see potential and existing clients on your premises. But it can also cover you for accidents that may occur if you visit a client on their own premises, or even in a public place.

Contents Cover

While buildings insurance can cover the physical structure of your business premises, contents insurance can cover your fixtures, fittings, and furniture, along with the various equipment you use to conduct your business, including your phones and laptops.

Business Interruption Insurance

This can cover you for any loss of profits if you are ever unable to conduct business as usual, for whatever reason. For example, a fire or a flood could temporarily prevent access to your business premises. Or you may be unable to trade while a regulating body conducts an audit of your operations.

Cyber Insurance

This is another particularly important form of cover for accountants. As you handle large amounts of sensitive financial information, your accountancy firm may be a prime target for a cyberattack.

While cyber insurance cannot itself prevent a cyberattack, it can cover the expenses associated with responding to a data breach. This can include any financial losses you or your clients may sustain, along with the costs of notifying clients, and even the PR work to help protect your reputation following the breach.

Get Specialist Accountants 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 can help you understand the unique business risks you face as an accountant, before helping you get comprehensive insurance cover at a competitive price.

Find out how we can help you today.

Common Causes of Event Cancellations and Insurance Implications
Common Causes of Event Cancellations and Insurance Implications 1000 667 James Hallam

A thorough risk assessment and good contingency planning can help you keep your event on track in the face of many unexpected developments. Yet in a worst case scenario, you may have no choice but cancel your event. This is why it is vital to get comprehensive event cancellation insurance as part of your specialist event insurance policy.

In this post we will outline some common causes of event cancellations, along with the sort of contingency planning that could help you avoid an outright cancellation.

Preparing For Cancellations and Why Insurance Is Essential

It is important to plan the steps you will take should you need to cancel your event, for whatever reason.

You will need a means of:

  • Notifying all delegates, along with the venue staff and your guests, that the event is not taking place.
  • Investing in additional paid advertising, so as to ensure that your message is seen by as many people as possible.
  • Refund some or all of the fees from attendees and sponsors.
  • Reimburse certain travel or accommodation expenses for speakers.

Dedicated event cancellation insurance can cover you for all of these expenses, fee refunds and more. This is why it is essential to take out your insurance as early in your planning as possible.

Common Causes of Event Cancellations

Bad Weather

Many events are cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. High winds and heavy rains can cause real risks for outdoor and indoor events. Snow can seriously disrupt travel, and flooding can jeopardise even a sheltered indoor event.

You might plan for bad weather through having an alternative venue in mind to which you can relocate if necessary.

Yet bad weather is just one aspect of event planning that is genuinely beyond your control. This is why it is crucial to get the cover you need for unexpected ”events” that may coincide with the event you are running.

Non-Attendance and Cancellations

If one of your speakers pulls out, you may not have to cancel your event outright, but you may have to deal with a number of refund requests. However, if a keynote speaker pulls out, or if multiple speakers cancel at once, and if you cannot find replacements then you may have no choice but to cancel or reduce the content delivered.

You can plan for this scenario through developing a list of alternative speakers you might reach out to if you need to fill a slot at short notice. You can also manage your delegates’ expectations with a disclaimer that your event’s programme is “liable to change”.

Yet if refunds or cancellations cannot be avoided, once again event cancellation insurance can cover you for any costs you may need to meet.

Venue Cancellations and Safety Issues

Your chosen venue may suddenly cancel your event, perhaps as a result of safety issues, of structural damages, or due to a scheduling conflict.

If you are not able to find an alternative venue in time, you will have to either reschedule your event or cancel it. Your event cancellation insurance can help mitigate the losses you may incur as a result of unexpected venue-related issues.

Other Unexpected Events

A range of additional unexpected events may compromise your event, which may make you consider cancelling:

  • Road closures
  • Building work
  • Industrial action
  • Terrorism
  • Riots and public disorder

Such events are out of your hands, which can make risk assessments and contingency planning difficult. Event insurance can give you peace of mind that you will be covered for insured losses that will arise from such situations. Yet to avoid any unpleasant surprises, check your policy wording in advance to ensure that there are no exceptions to your cover that are of concern.

Get Specialist Event Insurance From James Hallam

As we have seen, there are many situations that may force you to cancel your event, some of which are beyond your control. This is why dedicated event cancellation insurance is vital.

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 the comprehensive event cancellation cover you need, to ensure you are fully covered for all contingencies with no risky gaps in your cover.

Get in touch for a free quote today.

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