Tourism, Hospitality and Leisure Insurance

The mandatory insurance for a restaurant or bar depends on local regulations, but generally, the most common ones are: - General liability insurance: essential to cover damages to customers, employees, or suppliers due to accidents on the premises, such as slips, food poisoning, or property damage. - Workplace accidents or occupational risks: mandatory if there are employees, covering medical assistance and compensation for workplace accidents or occupational diseases. - Employer's liability insurance: protects against claims from employees for injuries not covered by work-related insurance. - Vehicle insurance: if deliveries or transportation of goods are carried out, vehicles must have mandatory circulation insurance. - Fire and property damage insurance: often required by landlords or local authorities, covers the premises, furniture, and equipment against fires, leaks, or other incidents. Additionally, it is recommended to have complementary insurance such as business interruption, theft, or professional liability. Verifying local regulations is key to operating safely and complying with legal requirements.

If a customer suffers food poisoning in your restaurant, bar, or catering service, insurance can protect you against the economic and legal consequences through various coverages: - General liability insurance: covers the customer's medical expenses, potential compensation if you are found liable, and legal costs if there is a lawsuit. - Product liability insurance: protects against claims for spoiled or poorly handled food, even if it was consumed outside the premises (delivery or catering). - Professional liability (errors and omissions): covers mistakes in food preparation or failures to comply with food safety protocols. - Legal defense: many policies include coverage for lawyer fees and court costs, even if the incident is not ultimately attributable to the business. However, coverage may be limited if there is gross negligence or if health regulations are violated. Maintaining good hygiene practices is crucial for the insurance to respond appropriately.

You need several coverages to protect your business, employees, and customers: - General liability and product liability insurance: cover third-party damages and food poisoning. - Professional liability insurance: for errors in the provision of the service. - Workplace accident insurance: mandatory if you have staff. - Commercial vehicle and goods transportation insurance: for the delivery of food or materials. - Equipment damage insurance: covers theft or damage. - Event cancellation and business interruption insurance: protects against losses due to unforeseen circumstances. - Event-specific liability insurance: required in many venues. These coverages provide operational security and legal compliance.

The most common claims include: - Customer falls and accidents on the premises. - Food poisoning due to failures in food handling. - Fires in kitchens or facilities. - Water damage (leaks, floods). - Theft or vandalism of equipment, money, or inventory. - Workplace accidents (cuts, burns, injuries). - Electrical failures or key equipment malfunctions (such as refrigeration). - Claims for harassment or discrimination. - Loss of income due to temporary closure. - Damage to customer property in hotels. - Environmental incidents with legal risks. Having the right coverage helps minimise the economic and legal impact of these events.

Yes, through business interruption insurance, which covers income loss due to closures caused by incidents such as fires or floods. For closures due to non-physical causes, such as pandemics or government decisions, specific extensions or additional policies need to be taken out. It is important to carefully review the terms and coverages included.