Seasonal Business Insurance: What to Know About Starting and Pausing Coverage
If you own a seasonal business, you already know the challenges—staffing, cash flow, storage, inventory, and unpredictable weather. But what about insurance?
Even in the off-season, your business is still at risk for property damage, liability claims, or equipment theft. Someone could slip and fall on your property, or one of your vehicles could be vandalized. The right coverage helps protect you from costly financial setbacks.
Because budgets are tight for many seasonal businesses, it’s important to balance protection with affordability. Speaking with an insurance agent, such as one from C&S Insurance, can help you avoid overpaying while ensuring you have the coverage you need.
Below are key tips from our insurance experts.
What Are Seasonal Businesses?
A seasonal business operates primarily during certain times of the year—summer, winter, or the holidays. Some shut down completely during the off-season, while others pivot to different services, maintenance, or planning. Seasonal businesses often rely on temporary employees.
Examples include:
- Landscaping companies
- Ski rental shops or resorts
- Holiday-themed shops
- Summer camps
- Farmers markets
- Surf instructors
- Pool cleaning services
- Christmas tree farms
- Snow removal services
These businesses have unique insurance needs, but most should maintain at least some coverage year-round.
Six Insurance Tips for Seasonal Business Owners
1. Evaluate Your Specific Risks
Start by identifying your off-season risks. For example, stored vehicles may be vulnerable to weather damage, theft, or vandalism. A closed storefront could still face flooding, fire, or liability if someone is injured on the property.
Discussing these risks with an agent helps determine what coverage you should keep active year-round.
2. Maintain Core Coverage Year-Round
Two types of coverage are essential:
Commercial property insurance: Covers buildings, equipment, signage, inventory, and other business property. Options range from basic (fire only) to broad (fire, theft, and more) to special (the most comprehensive).
Commercial liability insurance: Protects against third-party claims of accidents, injuries, or property damage.
These are often included in a business owner’s policy (BOP). Pausing them altogether can leave your business exposed.
3. Adjust Coverage to Reduce Costs
Seasonal businesses don’t need to overpay in the off-season. For example:
Lower your commercial auto coverage if vehicles aren’t being driven.
Adjust coverage limits for equipment or inventory if you have less of it during slower months.
Suspend endorsements for property not in use.
This way, you maintain essential protection without straining your budget.
4. Consider Business Interruption Insurance
When your business is in season, every day matters. A fire, severe weather, or other disruption could mean a major loss in revenue. Business interruption insurance helps cover:
- Fixed expenses (rent, taxes, loan payments)
- Payroll
- Relocation costs
- Equipment repairs or training
- Losses from theft or cyberattacks
It typically doesn’t cover flood or earthquake damage (separate policies may be required), undocumented income, or government-mandated shutdowns. Talk with an agent to clarify what is and isn’t covered.
5. Review Your Policy Annually
As your business evolves, so should your insurance. Annual reviews with your agent ensure your coverage matches your operations, staff size, and assets.
Growing? You may need more coverage.
Downsizing? Adjusting your policy could save you money.
Insurance isn’t “set it and forget it”—reviewing regularly helps avoid both underinsurance and overpayment.
6. Ask About Seasonal Business Insurance
Some insurers offer seasonal business insurance, which provides enhanced coverage during your peak season. This may make sense for event-based businesses, pop-up shops, or holiday stores, but not for everyone.
An agent can help determine whether it’s a good fit for your business.
Protect Your Seasonal Business Year-Round
Even when operations slow down, your risks don’t disappear. With the right coverage in place, you can safeguard your business and step into each season with confidence.
Have questions about your coverage? Speak with an agent at C&S Insurance today.