A relatively small investment of time and money now may prevent severe damage and disruption of life and business in the future. |
Be a little pessimistic now, and assume it can happen to you. Develop a disaster plan for your home or business now so you can rest a little more easily in the future. |
Compared to other disasters we've worked with, this is unprecedented. |
Consider business interruption insurance that assists you with operating needs during a period of shutdown. It may help you meet payrolls, pay vendors and purchase inventory until you are in full operation again. |
Every area in the country is subject to some kind of disaster - flood, hurricane, earthquake, to name a few. Even man-made disasters - oil spill, civil unrest, fire - can devastate the surrounding neighborhood and economy. Even though an area has never been damaged before, there is no guarantee that it will not happen tomorrow. |
In some cases folks will think they need an SBA loan and they really need a FEMA grant. |
It is full of suggestions on steps you can take to protect your building, contents, employees and customers. |
It's aimed at helping businesses cover their operating expenses had the disaster not occurred. |
Make it a regular annual procedure to review and update your insurance. Also remember that insurance on mortgaged property probably only covers the lender with nothing left over for you. |
Many lenders may not have discussed the STAR program specifically with the borrower. |
Most general casualty policies do not cover flood damage. Many require additional riders for windstorms. Consider adding coverage for likely perils, especially flood insurance. |
One lender could have been really strict and specific about the borrower providing the documentation to prove that they were affected by the Sept. 11 attacks, and another banker may not have, or may have had ulterior motives for approving loans. |
Set up relationships in advance and maintain them. Place occasional orders so that they regard you as an active customer when you need them. |
There is no way to avoid a natural disaster from occurring. You can, however, take action to avoid the most devastating damage that your business may face. |
They are being considered as they come in. |