When Disaster Strikes: A Real Story About Gym Insurance Claims

As a gym owner, you hope you'll never need to file an insurance claim. But when the unexpected happens, that's exactly when your insurance coverage proves its worth. Let me share a recent experience that shows why having the right coverage – and the right support – matters.

A Customer's Claims Story

One of our gym owners got a call no business owner wants to receive: there was a fire in the building. While the fire started in a neighboring business, his studio suffered significant smoke and water damage from the sprinkler system. The good news? Everyone was safe. The better news? The claims process wasn't the nightmare many people fear.

Here's what happened: After ensuring everyone's safety, the gym owner contacted us immediately. We had a claims adjuster on site the next day (a Saturday!) – not next week, not "when we get around to it." The adjuster assessed the damage, documented everything, and worked quickly to process the claim. Within a week, the owner had a check in hand to begin repairs.

Let's be honest – claims are scary. They represent unexpected disruptions to your business and your life. But this is precisely why you have insurance. It's not just a legal requirement or a box to check; it's financial protection when things go wrong.

Here's what you should know about the claims process:

1. Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Make sure everyone is out of harm's way before doing anything else.
2. Document Everything: Take photos. Write down what happened while it's fresh in your memory. Save any relevant security footage.
3. Contact Your Insurance Provider Immediately: Don't wait. The sooner you start the process, the sooner you can get back to business.
4. Keep Detailed Records: This applies both before and after an incident:
   • Before: Maintain a detailed inventory of your business equipment and assets. Keep receipts for all major purchases, take photos of your equipment, and document any improvements to your space. Having this documentation readily available can significantly speed up your claims process.
   • After: Track all expenses related to the incident. Save receipts for emergency repairs, temporary relocations, replacement equipment, or any other costs incurred due to the incident. Take photos of damage and keep a log of all related communications.
5. Ask Questions: A good insurance provider should walk you through the process and be available to answer your questions. You shouldn't feel in the dark about what's happening with your claim.

Remember: Claims are why you have insurance. While we hope you never need to file one, know that when you do, you're not alone in the process.