To coincide with the launch of a package policy called Office Insurance, Sun Alliance is offering two free booklets to those who work in or manage offices. One booklet details all the points that need to be considered in connection with office insurance. The other, entitled “Offices at Risk”, gives advice on how to reduce the risks of loss or damage. It includes sections on the safety of staff, fire prevention and computer safety.

Recognizing the fact that computers are now in daily use in many offices, the new Sun Alliance policy includes cover for damage to computers and (in the optional engineering section) damage caused by mechanical and electrical breakdown can be included. Loss of earnings following computer breakdown can also be insured.

Office Insurance supersedes the company’s Officeplan policy launched in 1974. It retains the successful package concept—wide cover, simplicity, competitive rates—but increases the range of optional extensions. There is now no limit to the size or number of offices that can be covered under one policy.

Sun Alliance claim that the standard cover is wider than the market norm, including several features usually regarded as extras. For example, there is automatic cover for alterations or additions to office buildings or contents up to 10% of the sum insured or £250,000 (whichever is the less). Contents cover includes temporary removal anywhere in Western Europe and world-wide cover can be provided if required.

A special “omissions” extension is included which covers legal liability for failure to send documents by recorded delivery or registered post. If all the cover provided by the package is not required, selection can be made by taking “property” and at least two other sections.

Office Insurance is competitively priced and the annual premium can be spread over 12 months under Sun Alliance’s instalment scheme, for which the service charge is a modest 6% (13.7% APR). The basic package comprises “All Risks” cover for office property and loss of earnings, legal liabilities, and money (including personal injury as a result of robbery). Wider protection can be gained by adding book debts, dishonesty of staff, personal accident, legal expenses and engineering covers.

Of special interest to multi-national businesses will be the option to extend cover to offices abroad where the local legislation permits this.