Getting Back to Business Quickly After a Disaster

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) previously reported that over 40 percent of businesses affected by a disaster do not reopen. Of course, the COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented and that number is likely to be higher as the economy reopens.

We hope these tips will help, as America re-opens.

Seek Assistance
Several organizations are available to help your business rebuild after a disaster strikes. Here is a link to federal information on disaster assistance – https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance

1. The Small Business Administration – Apply for a low-rate, long-term loan through the SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance.
2. Your bank – Talk to your banker about a low-cost loan or other financial assistance. Paycheck Protection Plan is still available.
3. Insurance agent – File a claim and discuss your ongoing needs.
4. Community – Ask your community, including neighbors, clients and vendors, to help clean up, rebuild and return to business as usual.

When disaster strikes, your business must be prepared. These steps can help. If you don’t have these steps in place, consider implementing them today in preparation for the next disaster.

Review Your Business Contingency Plan
If you don’t already have one –  create a business contingency plan. It’s part of your emergency preparedness strategy. This backup plan outlines the steps you’ll take if you ever face a disaster, and it will address:

• Business continuity. COVID-19 or other pandemics do not qualify for this coverage. It may be a while before we have clarity on this from insurers and courts.
• Emergency response
• Crisis communications
• Information technology
• Incident management
• Employee assistance

Some of the questions this document answers include:

• Who is the go-to contact?
• How will we accept, fill and track orders?
• What alternatives are available if our vendors are non-operational?
• What’s the best way to secure data?

Examine your business contingency plan today and make sure it addresses all your needs. With it, your business can regroup quickly after a disaster strikes.

Review Your Insurance and Risk Protection
You probably carry typical business insurance such as liability, property and employee coverage. Read these policies carefully, and store copies of your insurance documents in a safe place where they are easily accessible any time.

If you see gaps in your coverage or notice that you don’t have coverage for certain disasters, purchase additional policies. An umbrella coverage or flood insurance are two examples of insurance products that protect your business. For more details on how to prepare insurance-wise for an emergency of any kind, talk to your insurance agent.