A business interruption coverage estimator is a tool designed to project the financial impact of a temporary suspension of operations. It assists businesses in determining the appropriate level of insurance required to cover lost profits and continuing expenses in the event of a covered peril, such as a fire or natural disaster. For example, a retail store can use such a tool to estimate the revenue they would lose if forced to close for repairs following a storm, factoring in ongoing costs like rent and utilities.
Accurately assessing potential business interruption losses is critical for ensuring the long-term viability of an organization. Underinsurance can lead to significant financial strain and even closure after a disaster, while overinsurance results in unnecessary premium costs. Historically, businesses relied on manual calculations and estimations, often resulting in inaccuracies. These modern tools provide a more precise and efficient method for risk assessment and insurance planning. They are invaluable in protecting against unpredictable events that can disrupt operations.