Will you be opening your home or office for gatherings this holiday season? Whether it is a neighborhood block party, an office end-of-year party or your own family coming to visit, preparation requires more than cleaning the house or buying enough food. At Couri Insurance, we have seen first-hand the risks homeowners and business owners take when they host festive gatherings. Our job is to ensure you are prepared for the unexpected. Continue reading to find out the three questions you should ask yourself before hosting your holiday event.
Do You Have EPLI Coverage?
Employment Practices Liability Insurance, or EPLI, is coverage that protects you when your employees engage in discriminatory behavior or behaviors that can be defined as sexual harassment among other things. Often, employers believe their commercial general liability insurance is enough to protect them from the unlawful actions of others. However, that is not the case. Instead, we suggest an EPLI policy which specifically covers these types of claims from both employees and third-parties, such as vendors or clients who are in attendance. With EPLI coverage, you are more likely to be covered for events that take place during a work function that land you in court.
Will Your Homeowners Liability Protect You?
Most homeowners insurance policies do more than protect your house against damage or loss – they can also help pay the medical bills, lost wages and other expenses of a person who is injured while on your property. Imagine being sued for thousands of dollars due to an accident that was caused by a house guest that had too much to drink and fell down a set of stairs. Not having proper homeowners liability could be a financial disaster.
If you rent your home, don’t assume that it’s only the landlords responsibility to have liability insurance – It’s your responsibility as well.
How Can You Lower the Risk of an Incident?
Accidents are often beyond control, but there are steps you can take to help reduce the risk of an adverse event. For example, you may not be able to prevent an argument from ensuing between guests, but you can take steps to prevent over-intoxication that can cause disagreements to escalate into physical confrontations.
What is your plan to lessen your risks? We suggest the following tips:
- Set a limit on alcohol consumption
- Encourage guests to designate a sober driver
- Do not allow a guest to leave your home or office party while visibly intoxicated
- Do not invite guests who have unresolved conflicts to the same party
- Limit the amount of alcohol you drink so that you can more accurately determine the sobriety of your guests
- Hire a professional bartender to serve guests (never let an employee fill in as bartender)
- Review the employee handbook and behavioral expectations prior to the party
- Assure employees that attendance is not mandatory to prevent unpaid wage and hourly pay claims
Review Your EPLI and Homeowners Liability Coverage Today
If you are planning an event at your home or office this holiday season, take time to ensure all of your bases are covered. We here at Couri Insurance Agency would be happy to review your existing coverage or help you select a new policy if you do not already have one that fits your needs. If you live or work in Waukesha, Wisconsin or the surrounding area, call us today to schedule a meeting. We look forward to serving you soon.
