What You Don’t Know Will Hurt You!

The coldest temperatures in two decades and the recent polar vortex have blanketed much of our area with snow and ice. As a result, many clients may have to temporarily turn off their sprinkler systems for repairs due to the freezing conditions.

Check your property policy! Your coverage may be jeopardized if you suffer a fire loss and the insurance company was not notified that the system was turned off, even temporarily.

It is good practice to review your Commercial Property Policy for a Protective Safeguard Endorsement.

This endorsement provides that the insurance carrier will not pay for loss or damage by fire if the insured:

• Knew of any suspension or impairment
• Failed to notify the insurance carrier of that fact
• Failed to maintain any protective safeguards that are listed in the Schedule

Safeguards referenced in the endorsement can include the following items: an automatic sprinkler system, fire alarm, burglar alarms and smoke detectors.

JKJ Tip: Advise your insurance broker if the sprinkler system (or any alarm system) must be shut down for any reason, regardless. They can determine if a Protective Safeguards Endorsement is applicable and make the necessary arrangements with the insurance carrier to suspend the application of the endorsement.

Author: Tracy Thompson, Commercial Account Manager

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