Overview
Over the past decade, remote work has become increasingly popular. According to a FlexJobs survey, there has been a 159% increase in remote work since 2005, and it is projected that by 2028, 73% of all teams will have remote workers. The COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated this trend, with businesses being forced to shift to remote operations to keep their employees safe.
Remote Work
This shift towards remote work has also had a significant impact on the way individuals view and utilize their homes. No longer just a place to relax and sleep, the home has become the central hub of work, learning, and entertainment. As more people rely on their homes for multiple purposes, it is crucial to rethink home insurance coverage to ensure adequate protection for this new way of living.
One of the main areas that need to be reevaluated is the coverage for digital assets. In this age of remote work, most professionals use laptops, tablets, and other digital devices to carry out their work. And with work being done from home, these devices are exposed to different risks, such as theft, damage, and cyber threats. However, traditional home insurance policies may not provide sufficient coverage for digital assets, leaving homeowners vulnerable to financial losses in case of any damage or loss.
To address this issue, insurance companies are now offering riders or add-ons to standard home insurance policies to protect digital assets. These riders cover a range of items, including laptops, tablets, cameras, and other electronic devices, against various risks, such as theft, accidental damage, and cyber breaches. These add-ons not only provide coverage against physical damage but also help cover the cost of data recovery and protection against cyber threats like malware and phishing.
In addition to digital assets, the rise of remote work has also resulted in homeowners needing to rethink their liability coverage. When working from home, there is an increased risk of accidents or injuries occurring on the property, especially if clients or business partners visit the home for meetings. This can expose homeowners to potential liability claims, which may not be covered by a standard home insurance policy.
As such, individuals working from home should consider increasing their liability coverage or purchasing a separate liability policy to protect against any potential claims. It is essential to review the coverage limits and exclusions of the existing policy carefully and discuss any significant changes or additions with the insurance provider.
Home Based Business
Another aspect that requires attention is the coverage for equipment and inventory used for home-based businesses. With the rise of remote work, many individuals have started their businesses from home, resulting in the need for proper insurance coverage. Home insurance typically provides limited to no coverage for business equipment and inventory. Hence, it is crucial to purchase business insurance or add a business coverage rider to the existing home insurance policy.
Moreover, as more businesses shift to remote work, the need for commercial property insurance has reduced, resulting in increased competition and lower premiums. This could be an excellent opportunity for remote workers and home-based businesses to secure comprehensive insurance at affordable rates.
Apart from digital assets and liabilities, there are various other aspects that need to be considered while rethinking home insurance in this age of remote work. These include coverage for home offices, losses due to business interruption, and protection against identity theft. Home insurance policies are not one-size-fits-all, and it is essential to review and update coverage regularly to ensure adequate protection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rise of remote work has brought about significant changes in the way we live and work. As homes become more than just a living space, it is crucial to rethink home insurance to adequately protect against the new risks and challenges that come with this lifestyle. Individuals should carefully review their existing coverage and communicate with their insurance provider to ensure that their homes are adequately protected in this age of remote work and digital assets.
