The list below is provided to help you avoid any avoidable problems when dealing with your shop insurance. Of course you must bear in mind that all the information you provide must be accurate and that you have a 14 day cooling off period in which to cancel your policy without penalties.

Any adjustment to your shop insurance policy during the term of the policy will result in an amendment fee in addition to any refunded and additional premiums.

Here is the list of the standard terms for a basic shop insurance policy.

• None of those involved in the business (you, your directors and your partners) have had an insurance policy declined, terminated, had your premium increased nor suffered and other special conditions from any other insurer.

• None of those involved have ever been convicted of or charged (but not yet tried) with a breach of any health and safety legislation or any other criminal offence other than parking or speeding offences or offences which are spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

• None of the named insured are awaiting an outstanding County Court Judgement (or the Scottish equivalent)

• No-one is has been made bankrupt or is subject to insolvency orders, whether they are outstanding or discharged for less than 5 years

• The walls of the buildings are built solely of brick, stone, or concrete

• The roof of the building is built of incombustible materials such as slate, stone, clay, tiles, concrete or asphalt

• The buildings are heated only by hot water apparatus working under low pressure, or fixed electrical or gas appliances

• The building is in good condition, secure and water tight, does not require any repair or refurbishment and will be so maintained

• The buildings are in your sole occupation other than offices and private dwellings

• The level of security at your Premises meets your insurer’s minimum requirements

• Your trade is carried out from a single premises

• You have sole control over access points (doors and windows) that access your premises used by your business

• Business is conducted from a shop or salon

• The building does not have Grade 1 listed status

• There are no external Automated Teller Machines at the premises

Quotes for shop insurance are available from Specialist Risks