http://www.setnorbyer.com/ Copyright 2010 Setnor Byer Insurance & Risk Risk Briefs en-us http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Remember-the-HIRE-Act.xml Although it is not yet clear precisely how the IRS will go about ensuring the proper use of the HIRE Act's incentives, it is fair to say that those caught abusing the system by fraudulently taking the credits will be dealt with harshly. Accordingly, it would be wise for employers to proceed cautiously in this regard and make every effort to ensure compliance with the Act's provisions. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Remember-the-HIRE-Act.xml http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Insuring-the-Green-Movement.xml The effort and expense required to construct and operate a green building can be significant, and the numbers show that property owners are willing to invest the extra money to reap the many benefits associated with an environmentally sound structure. Given the unique risks involved in maintaining a green building, it is important for owners to properly insure their investment in order to enjoy the benefits of green ownership despite a covered loss. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Insuring-the-Green-Movement.xml http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/The-Health-Care-Reform-Act-Unintended-Consequences.xml Regardless of one's views of the Act's provisions or the manner in which an employer may elect to operate in light of its terms, it is important for businesses to maneuver through the new law and stay ahead of any changes. By understanding the Act's implications, it is possible to ensure future success under the new health insurance landscape. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/The-Health-Care-Reform-Act-Unintended-Consequences.xml http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Did-You-Know-About-Leasehold-Interest-Coverage.aspx Did you know that in response to the high number of commercial property vacancies, landlords, in an effort to entice new tenants, are increasingly offering more favorable lease terms? But even sweetheart deals like these carry some risks that business owners need to protect themselves against with well-designed insurance policies. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Did-You-Know-About-Leasehold-Interest-Coverage.aspx http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Converting-a-Safe-Workplace-into-Lower-Workers-Compensation-Insurance-Premiums.aspx In many states, including Florida, workers' compensation insurance rates are set by the state, which means that regardless which insurance company ultimately provides the insurance, the rates remain the same. Therefore, unlike with other types of insurance, consumers are limited in their ability to go bargain shopping for workers' compensation insurance. However, this lack of bargaining power does not necessarily mean that employers are powerless to reduce their premiums. There is one way employers can lower the cost of their workers' compensation insurance: maintain a safe working environment. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Converting-a-Safe-Workplace-into-Lower-Workers-Compensation-Insurance-Premiums.aspx http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/All-in-the-Family-A-Parents-Liability-for-Torts-Committed-by-the-Child.aspx The relationship between parent and child is one of devotion and responsibility. Even in the most extreme circumstances, there is little that a parent would not voluntarily do for his or her child. However, what would a parent do for the person who was injured or who suffered property damage at the hands of the child? In such a case, the answer may not necessarily be up to the parent. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/All-in-the-Family-A-Parents-Liability-for-Torts-Committed-by-the-Child.aspx http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Did-You-Know-January-2010.aspx Did you know that the need for spoilage coverage extends beyond food-based risks? If your business has any stock that would be destroyed or rendered unusable due to an extended loss of power, then you would be wise to consider coverage that protects this perishable stock. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Did-You-Know-January-2010.aspx http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Employer-Can-be-Liable-for-Employee-Injuries-Sustained-at-Company-Sponsored-Events.aspx It’s settled law that workers’ compensation insurance covers employees when their injuries “arise out of and in the course and scope of employment.” But it’s possible that employees who are injured while participating in company-sponsored recreational activities may also qualify for workers’ compensation. This determination of coverage is both state- and fact-specific, with each state applying its own interpretation of whether injuries “arise out of and in the course of employment” when they occur as a result of employer-sponsored activities. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Employer-Can-be-Liable-for-Employee-Injuries-Sustained-at-Company-Sponsored-Events.aspx http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Insuring-Against-Claims-Brought-Under-the-Fair-Labor-Standards-Act.aspx Employers face numerous federal laws that govern the employment relationship. These laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, impose requirements on employers regarding the manner in which they interact with their employees. If these requirements are overlooked, employers can expect to be called upon to pay a potentially substantial damage award to the aggrieved employee. While avoiding a violation of all applicable employment laws is the goal of every organization, there is one law which employers should be concerned about above the others—the Fair Labor Standards Act. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Insuring-Against-Claims-Brought-Under-the-Fair-Labor-Standards-Act.aspx http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Did-You-Know-Employee-Dishonesty.aspx Did you know that eight out of ten crimes against businesses are carried out by employees? Workplace fraud and employee theft are more prevalent than ever: It is estimated that the average American business loses six percent of its total annual revenues due to some form of employee fraud. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to occupational fraud and abuse because they usually cannot afford extensive safeguards against these risks, nor can small firms easily absorb the large losses to which employee fraud and theft can lead. http://www.setnorbyer.com/risk-briefs/Did-You-Know-Employee-Dishonesty.aspx