Running a business takes vision. You look ahead, plan for growth and see possibilities where others see challenges. But the truth is that storms, floods, fires and earthquakes can disrupt even the strongest business.
In recent years, the United States experienced a 200% increase in disasters since 1980 according to NOAA. Climate Central estimates that the average annual cost of disasters rose to nearly $100 billion, compared to $22 billion in that same time span. What’s more, natural disasters are happening more often. The gap between major disasters has shrunk from 82 days to just 12. That means your business may have less time to recover before the next crisis hits.
Given the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, the question is no longer “if” but “when” you’ll need to respond to one. When it happens, will your business be ready? FEMA estimates that 40% of small businesses do not reopen, and those who do, close within one year.
Help your business weather the storm
Storms often bring high winds, heavy rain and potentially long power outages. A hurricane can cause weeks of disruption, even if your building is intact. Fortunately, the right coverage can mitigate the impact.
Solar Energy Solutions Standard property insurance often covers storm damage, but it may not include lost income if your doors are closed. Business interruption coverage fills that gap so you can pay staff and bills while you recover.
Ensure business stays afloat after a flood
Flooding is one of the most expensive and unpredictable risks. Out-of-season events are becoming more common, leaving businesses caught off guard. Water can damage equipment, inventory and essential records. Cleanup is slow and costly. How can you protect your business? Consider flood insurance.
What you need to know: Most commercial property policies exclude floods. You’ll likely need separate flood insurance through federal or private programs. Without it, one flood could wash away years of savings.
Prevent fires from burning through budgets
As many regions see more intense wildfires, firefighting budgets and resources are stretched thin, putting entire regions at greater risk. Flames aren’t the only concern. Smoke, poor air quality and mandated evacuations can shut down a business even if the fire never reaches your building. Businesses located miles away can still incur downtime, relocation costs and smoke damage.
What you need to know: Fire is often included in property insurance, but wildfire-prone areas may face exclusions or high deductibles. Adding coverage that includes business interruption ensures you’re protected from both direct and indirect losses.
Solidify your foundation against earthquakes
Earthquakes may not happen as often as storms or floods, but when they do, the damage can be severe. Most property policies exclude earthquake damage, leaving business owners exposed. Repairing a foundation, replacing machinery or rebuilding a facility can require major capital and stall growth for years. Outsmart the risks with coverage.
What you need to know: Earthquake coverage is purchased as a separate policy or endorsement. It can cover repairs, lost inventory and extra expenses like temporary relocation.
The cost of underinsurance
Too many businesses carry only the minimum coverage required. But underinsurance creates a false sense of security. When disaster strikes, gaps in protection show up fast. In recent years, many businesses faced financial hardship because they lacked the right type of coverage or had limits that didn’t match today’s rising costs.
Think of insurance not just as a safety net, but also as a strategic tool that gives you confidence to move forward. It lets you invest, expand and hire, knowing you have protection against the unexpected.
Building business continuity together
At Highstreet Insurance & Financial Services, we believe resilience is something we build together. We’re part of the same communities you serve. We support the local businesses that keep neighborhoods strong. And we see possible—how planning ahead builds hope and creates opportunities.
When your business is covered, it’s not just you who benefits. Your employees have stability. Your customers know you’ll be there tomorrow, and your community keeps thriving. That’s why insurance matters. It protects more than buildings and equipment. It protects people, livelihoods and futures.
You can’t control the weather or predict an earthquake. But you can control how prepared you are. With the right insurance strategy, you protect your investment, your people and your community.
Highstreet is here to guide you through the risks. We’ll review your coverage, identify gaps and find solutions that fit your needs. Because you deserve more than a policy. You deserve a partner who stands beside you through every storm, flood, fire and quake. Let’s face these risks together. Let’s protect what matters most, so you can focus on growth and possibility.
