A New Shade of Business Coverage: Green Upgrade

May 21, 2012 - Hybrid cars, organic foods and eco-friendly lifestyles are moving into the mainstream. How is your business coping with green initiatives?

Buildings account for nearly 40 percent of our country's carbon footprint, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.

One way to go green is with Green Upgrade Coverage for Ultrapack Plus^SM from Erie Insurance. If your business suffers a property loss, you can rebuild or replace whatever was damaged to be green.

How it works

In the event of a covered loss, you could cover the costs of replacing or rebuilding damaged equipment with more energy-efficient or environmentally friendly alternatives such as motion-activated lights, automatic faucets and non-toxic or ENERGY STAR-compliant building materials.

Coverage details

With Green Upgrade Coverage, you'll get competitively priced coverage that provides:*

• Removal and disposal of your damaged property (recycled whenever possible).
• An additional limit of insurance to replace damaged property when using more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly materials. For example, if a business's electrical system is damaged and needs to be replaced, with Green Upgrade Coverage, it could be replaced with one that's compatible with solar panels.
• Expenses related to green upgrades such as extra costs to reuse building materials or professional design and engineering fees.
• A 30-day extended period for loss of earnings as a result of repairs being made because reconstruction with green standards may take longer than ordinary methods.

Green business benefits

Becoming a greener business is beneficial for the environment, your employees and your bottom line. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the potential benefits of green buildings can include:

• Providing a healthier work environment for your employees, which in turn may contribute to higher productivity levels.
• Reducing the amount of waste and improve air and water quality.
• Improving building resale price.
• Reducing energy bills.
• Differentiating your business from the competition.
• Earning necessary points to qualify for green certification from organizations like the U.S. Green Building Council.

Additionally, not only are you helping the environment for future generations, but you may also lower your operating costs. Green buildings typically cost less to operate and maintain. (To find real-world examples, including small business success stories, go to the ENERGY STAR Web site.)

There may also be tax benefits and incentives for green buildings and green building strategies. (Refer to the EPA's Web site for more details on funding.)

It's bound to polish your image, too, and that could lead to new loyal green customers.

Ultimately, your business insurance is our primary concern, but we also care about our environment. Together, ERIE and our agency offer businesses like yours superior products and service, along with the peace of mind that your business is well protected.

Contact a local Erie Insurance Agent to learn more about adding Green Upgrade Coverage to your business insurance policy.

*Coverage is subject to certain terms and limitations. See policy for details.

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