Debris Removal: The Often-Overlooked Coverage You Can’t Afford to Miss

When discussing property insurance, many business owners focus on the obvious: coverage for fires, wind, or theft. But one aspect often overlooked is debris removal—a crucial component of any property insurance program that can make a huge difference in a claim scenario after a disaster occurs.

Imagine this scenario: A severe storm hits, leaving your commercial property damaged by fallen trees and shattered windows and a portion of your home collapses under the weight of the tree and is rendered useless. Your property insurance policy will likely cover repairs to these items, but what about the debris left? Removing the wreckage could cost thousands of dollars, especially if large or hazardous materials inside your property are involved. Without debris removal coverage, these costs might fall directly on you.

What Is Debris Removal Coverage?

Debris removal is typically an additional clause or endorsement within your property insurance policy. It covers the cost of clearing and disposing of debris caused by a covered event, such as fire, windstorm, or vandalism. This coverage ensures that, after the damage is done, you won’t be left with a hefty bill for clean-up before repairs can even begin.

Many property policies include debris removal but with specific limits, meaning if the cost exceeds the set limit, the policyholder could be responsible for the excess amount. Reviewing these “sub limits” is crucial to ensure you don’t incur additional costs. Like many policies, coverage is not one size fits all, so be sure to talk to your broker and to make sure your policy addresses the specific needs of your property.