Speak to any business insurance broker about a quote and they will ask you a range of different questions about your business.
One question that will always be asked is about the construction of the building. The acronym B.S.S.T is used a lot, this stands for brick, stone, slate or tile. It effectively is confirmation that any building that needs to be insured, is of standard construction.
Part steel buildings, such as modern industrial units, do not fall within this definition but are considered by insurers to be standard, as long as they do not have insulation panels made of highly flammable material (such as polystyrene).
The insurers prefer standard construction, because in the even of a fire there is less likelihood of it spreading quickly. It is also better from a theft point of view in that it is not easy to break through a brick wall, whereas it is if the wall is part wooden.
When we consider a pub insurance quote, there is always the chance that we will have a thatched property referred. Licensed trade premises tend to occupy more thatched properties than other businesses. They also tend to have open fires which concerns some insurers.
Have no fear though, some insurer do recognise that thatched roofs, if cared for and replaced often enough are not that bad a risk. There is the element of storm damage, but this really is minimal compared to a slate roof because thatch is so heavy.
The main risk is fire. If you do have thatch and are having difficulty getting a quote, you need to get on the phone and speak to a few brokers. Some of the main, larger, companies are quote happy to provide terms, without onerous conditions applying. It is the same old story, shop around and you will find the premium and cover you want.