There are three forms of commercial property insurance in Texas. It is important to understand what these basic forms of coverage are in order to make the most economical and practical level of investment, and it is important to work with an agent who can cross reference available policy options to the specific parameters and needs of your business.

The following details a few basic points regarding the three main types of coverage and what those coverages specifically offer property owners and landlords.

1. Basic

Basic commercial property insurance in Texas tends to be the most cost effective due to its elementary nature. It insures against common risks such as fire, lightning, high winds, and vehicle collisions.

Basic coverage has its advantages and disadvantages. It is obviously less expensive due to the limitations on indemnity. Typically the policy limits are also lower, so the premiums are lower as well.

For a new property investor on a tight budget, starting out with basic commercial property insurance will at the very least fulfill Texas law requirements and provide a reasonable amount of protection against damages.

For owners of more sophisticated structures looking to give their business, not just the building, the best protection, Broad Form Insurance is generally recommended.

2. Broad Form

At its foundation, Broad Form Insurance for Texas commercial property acts much the same way as basic insurance. Like a building, however, there is much more to the policy than the foundation.

In addition to perils of weather and structural impact damage, broad form coverage protects against less common?but often exorbitantly costly?calamities like broken windows, water damage, or building collapse.

Texas Auto also provides broad coverage commercial insurance for the landlord's HVAC equipment. This insures the system itself both on a component level and an operational level.

We also will extend broad coverage to exterior signage and glass. Less extensive policies may only cover windows in the building(s) proper, so this extension is vital for any fixtures or glassworks on the property, but not necessarily connected, to the building.

3. Special Form

Of all the forms of commercial property insurance in Texas, special form coverage gives you the maximum amount of protection from common perils, unexpected calamities, and specified items of concern.

For example, a new acquisition of adjacent property may require immediate coverage. Texas Auto Home can provide this quickly and cost effectively at the time of purchase.

Loss of income can also be insured against under Texas commercial property special form insurance. If the property is under repair and unoccupied, any damages can be recovered for a period of up to 12 consecutive months.

Also, when buildings undergo reconstruction, building laws may change and require the property owner to update or rebuild to meet compliance. Our coverage for this peril includes any necessary demolition costs as well.

Other, additional coverages are too extensive to describe in length, but they are essential to protect the highly diversified Texas Landlord. A few examples include, but are not limited to:

* Contractual liability coverage- for service specialists and artisan contractors

* Advertising liability- to protect against litigation resulting from print, media, or Internet advertising you invest in

* Personal injury- covers your personal medical bills resulting from accidents on premises

* Bodily Injury- covers the medical bills of a third party hurt on your premises

* Property Damage- specific damages covered as addendum's to policy.

While commercial property insurance in Texas may appear complex and even overwhelming, a qualified agent can easily assess your particular business needs, explain all coverage options simply and help you determine which options are best for you.