It’s every restaurateur’s nightmare – a public liability claim.
Restaurants and cafes are at higher risk of public liability incidents than most business types. Spilt food or liquid on the floor can cause slip and fall injuries. If a customer becomes ill after eating or drinking at a food premise, they may sue.
Loss of reputation can be even more damaging than the claim so hospitality businesses need peace of mind knowing that their insurance company will take care of the claim as quickly as possible so you can get on with running their business.
What is Covered?
The hospitality industry public liability claims can include:
- Injury – slip and fall, a hand caught in the door
- Food poisoning – one or multiple customers falling ill
- Foreign objects in food – dental or health problems
- Property damage – customer’s car is damaged by a falling tree in the car park
- Legal costs – fees incurred in defending a claim
A public liability claims can easily climb to the tens of thousands of dollars depending on the damage or injury. If multiple customers are involved, the costs can be huge.
A Food Poisoning Public Liability Claim
There have been numerous horror stories over the years of half the wedding guests come down with food poisoning including the not-so-lucky couple. Paying the medical costs and lost income for the of customers not able to work can quickly run into thousands of dollars. Therefore, it’s important to consider insurance for your restaurant to keep your business operation even if a claim was to occur.
Using a Broker
If you have been in the hospitality industry for a while, you will know how complex business insurance can be for your business. An experienced broker in the industry can analyse the risks of your business based on the number of people your premises caters for and the food and beverages you serve to find the best insurance option for you at the best price. In the event of a claim, your broker can also help manage the paperwork and deal with the insurance company on your behalf.
If your cafe or restaurant is part of a franchise, it’s important to consider your franchise insurance options to make sure you’re covered.
Contact a broker with experience in handling restaurant and cafe insurance by calling (08) 9367 7399, email us on info@phoenixins.com.au or call into any one of our branches.
