Figures just released by The Home Office show recorded incidents of arson in Kent fell by 16% between 2006/7 and 2007/8, however with the economy tightening many industry experts expect the situation to change for the worse.

Belmont International, Kent’s largest independent insurance broker, has said there is no place for complacency and urged business owners to make sure they reduce the risk of becoming an arson statistic as part of their business continuity planning.

David Armstrong, Associate Director of Belmont International, said: “History has shown that when the business environment gets harder, the incidence of arson rises, whether at the hand of desperate business owners or a disgruntled former employees.

“The problem is that many successful businesses can also find themselves affected by attacks on nearby premises, whether directly by the fire or indirectly by efforts to put it out resulting in water damage.

“Each business is different and it is no good having off-the-shelf protection and being under prepared for the worst. It is vital that businesses have the necessary cover, such as business interruption insurance or buildings insurance, in place and it is worth talking to an expert who can assess the risk on an individual basis and create a bespoke package.”

Business Interruption Insurance is a vital component of any Business Continuity Plan as it is the critical part of ‘who pays.’ Business Interruption Insurance requires serious attention because it cannot be altered after a disaster, such as arson, has occurred.

At the heart of Business Interruption Insurance is the requirement that any property is insured against loss or damage in order that funds are available to repair or replace the ‘bricks and mortar.’

Business owners can also take a number of steps themselves in order to reduce the risk of being a victim of an arson attack.

These include:
• Thinking about the ease with which intruders/arsonists could break into the premises and take immediate steps to strengthen defences.
• If there have been any small fires on your own or neighbouring premises inform the police immediately as well as calling the fire brigade. A small fire could be a warning of something worse to come.
• Doors and windows must be in good repair and locked when not in use. Use good quality locks and padlocks.
• Warn all staff of the threat from arson fires. Ask them to challenge anyone who should not be on the premises and to report any suspicious activities.
• Ensure equipment which you have installed – extinguishers, hose-reels, alarms, detectors, sprinklers – is in good working order and protected against sabotage attempts.
• At the end of each day check that doors and windows are secure; no combustible material is left lying around and any flammable liquids locked away in secure store.

David Armstrong added: “Businesses are currently suffering from a number of economic factors and pressures which means it is more important than ever to have the right kind of insurance cover in place.

“How confident are you that your current cover will cope with an arson attack which can lead to damage to premises, stock, equipment and much, much more? Getting a professional to conduct a personal review is the best way to ensure peace of mind.”

For more information or a confidential chat call David Armstrong on 01732 744700 or
e-mail david.armstrong@belmontint.com.