August brings escalating risks as hurricane season reaches its peak, putting marine businesses on high alert. For professionals relying on marine artisans insurance, such as boat detailers, mechanics, riggers, and fabricators, the stakes are especially high.
Hurricanes threaten not only vessels but also the operations that keep them seaworthy. Reviewing liability coverage now is critical to avoid costly disruptions and claims when storms strike. Mariners Insurance provides specialized coverage crafted to meet these seasonal challenges and protect marine artisans throughout the stormy months.
Understanding Marine Artisans Insurance
Marine artisans are skilled workers who provide hands-on services to vessels, including repairs, maintenance, custom fabrication, and rigging. Unlike typical commercial policies, marine artisans insurance addresses risks unique to working on or near the water.
Standard coverage usually includes general liability protection, marine liability that covers vessel-related risks, tools and equipment insurance, and coverage for dockside operations. These policies handle exposures specific to marine environments.
Unlike standard commercial insurance, which focuses primarily on land-based operations, marine artisans insurance covers challenges like damage caused by water exposure, liability related to vessel handling, and risks associated with dockside activities. It also accounts for the specialized tools and equipment used in marine trades, which face hazards not typically covered under general policies.
Unique Hurricane-Season Liabilities for Marine Artisans
Hurricane season introduces particular challenges for marine artisans. One common risk is damage to customer vessels while they are being serviced or stored before the storm. Liability exposure can increase if a client’s boat sustains damage during hurricane preparations like haul-outs, shrink-wrapping, or securing gear.
Beyond physical damage, marine artisans may face business interruption and cleanup costs following a storm. This is why they need insurance that accounts for these potential losses.
Key Liability Gaps To Watch For
Many liability policies have exclusions that can leave marine artisans vulnerable during hurricane season. For instance, windstorm damage and other “acts of God” are frequently limited or excluded.
It’s important to understand these limitations to avoid uncovered losses. Contractual liability and coverage for subcontractors can also present pitfalls if contracts are not clear or insurance requirements are not met. In these scenarios, marina insurance can protect businesses and help with recovery after storms.
How To Hurricane-Proof Your Marine Artisans Insurance
Conducting a policy audit with your insurance broker helps confirm that your coverage limits are adequate and that named perils include wind and storm-related damage.
Adding inland marine coverage, equipment floaters, or business interruption insurance can protect tools and offset downtime caused by storms. It’s also wise to document storm preparation procedures carefully, as it supports claims and shows proactive risk management.
Ready Your Policy for Hurricane Season
Marine artisans should take action before summer storms arrive. It’s important to review your coverage with a trusted specialist who understands the unique needs of commercial marine insurance clients.
Mariners Insurance offers free consultations and hurricane preparedness tips designed specifically for marine artisans to help safeguard operations against seasonal threats. Contact Mariners today to review your coverage and make sure your marine artisans insurance is truly hurricane-ready.
About Mariners General Insurance Group
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide — in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs — trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.