Steers Insurance Blog

Nova Scotia law makes it clear: all business owners must ensure their property is reasonably safe for visitors. Failing to do so can result in visitors and employees suffering sprains, strains, broken bones, and more from incidents like slip and fall accidents.

Halifax Small Business Week is fast approaching! Beginning October 19 and running through the 23rd, the week is dedicated to raising awareness of and supporting the over one million small business throughout Canada. Nova Scotia is home to nearly 30,000 small businesses and they employ 98% of workers here.

As warmer weather gives way to what is shaping up to be an eventful hurricane season, we are asking all our friends, followers and clients to keep their eyes on the weather as Hurricane Teddy remains a threat for this upcoming week.

Before returning to your property after evacuating due to a hurricane, it’s important to take time to consider what you need. Return to your property or business only after authorities advise it is safe. Keep informed and up-to-date on any changes in weather, related conditions, or any guidance from authorities, by tuning into the radio, TV, or social media. The hurricane may result in hazards and other potentially unsafe conditions, such as downed wires/power lines, gas leaks, flooded areas, damaged trees, and other debris. Be cautious when you return to your home or business.

Cargo theft tactics are growing. From food and beverages to high-end electronics, cargo thieves continue to target commodities that are sold easily on the black market. Opportunistic thieves can make most goods fair game. Knowing about emerging tactics can help businesses recognize their vulnerabilities and prevent potential cargo theft.

The real estate market is booming – especially in Halifax where it is a sellers’ market. Buyers are often faced with paying above asking and competing with multiple buyers. This means you need to be ready to move fast – from being pre-approved on your mortgage, to being able to turn around a letter of insurability in a timely fashion and do a quick thorough assessment of the house. Aluminum wiring is one of those features that might make it hard to get a mortgage or insurance, so understanding the implications now will be helpful if you find a great property that has Aluminum wiring.

In today’s sharing economy, peer-to-peer rentals are making their name as cheaper (and trendier) alternatives to traditional hotels. But if you’re considering entering the market as a homeowner, there are a few things you should know about home insurance for short-term rentals.

Hurricanes can create widespread devastation and can have lasting effects on commercial properties. Hazards such as flooding, storm surges, and high winds can cause extreme damage to any size building. Proper planning and preparation can minimize the effects a hurricane can have on a commercial property.

The frequency of hail storms has been on the rise, and with every storm comes damage – to vehicles and buildings. You should never underestimate a hail storm's destructiveness, even if your area is not prone to hail. The good news is that you can take steps to help reduce the risk of damage from hail storms.

The COVID-19 pandemic has taught business owners to expect the unexpected – including having to shut down your business with little or no notice. In particular, restaurant owners probably spent many nights worried about their restaurants' future and working to ensure they would still have doors to open again once they were allowed to do so.