Protecting your business during Christmas downtime

For many businesses, Christmas is either the busiest time of the year… or the quietest.

If you’re one of the companies that shuts its doors, powers down the lights and gives the team some well-deserved rest, it’s easy to assume your risks go quiet too.

Unfortunately, insurance claims over the festive period tell a different story.

When no one’s on site, the unexpected can go unnoticed – and minor issues can quickly become expensive headaches.

So, before you lock up and head home for mince pies, here’s how to protect your business during Christmas downtime.

Don’t assume empty means safe

A closed workplace can sometimes be more vulnerable than a busy one.

Consider:

• Fewer staff present means fewer opportunities to spot problems.
• Unoccupied buildings can attract unwanted attention.
• Bad weather hits harder when no one’s around to react.

A quick risk assessment before shutting down can prevent insurance claims later.

Ramp up security

Christmas is peak season for burglaries in commercial properties.

Before closing:

• Check all doors, windows and access points
• Make sure CCTV and alarms are fully operational
• Confirm that security codes are updated
• Remove high-value stock from display areas
• Consider additional lighting and motion sensors

If you use third-party monitoring, double-check that it’s active and up to date.

Nothing stops a Grinch faster than a working alarm system.

Don’t forget about the weather

Frozen pipes, leaks and water damage are among the most common Christmas shutdown claims.

To reduce the risk:

• Keep heating at a low background temperature
• Insulate pipes and tanks where possible
• Ask someone to check the premises periodically
• Make sure gutters and drains are clear before you close

A tiny leak on Christmas Eve can become a disaster by Boxing Day – and no one wants to be mopping floors in January.

Lock down your digital world too

Cyber-criminals do not take a holiday.

With fewer employees monitoring systems, your business may be more vulnerable to:

• Phishing attacks
• Malware
• Ransomware
• Email hacking

Before your team signs off:

• Install pending security updates
• Ensure backups are current and tested
• Encourage staff to be extra vigilant with suspicious emails
• Consider multi-factor authentication for critical systems

A cyber breach can be just as damaging as a physical break-in.

Check your insurance covers you when closed

Not all policies treat unoccupied premises the same.

Some insurers add conditions such as:

• Regular site inspections
• Heating requirements
• Alarm activation
• Limits on how long a building can be left empty

If you’re not sure, check your policy wording or ask your broker (that’s us).

The last thing any business wants is a rejected claim because something simple wasn’t in place.

Keep supplier and client commitments covered

Even if you’re winding down, others may not be.

Make sure:

• Delivery deadlines are realistic
• Out-of-office messages are set up
• Contracts don’t require work to be completed while you’re closed
• Key clients have emergency contact details

A little communication now avoids awkward emails in January.

Give your premises a mini health check

Before everyone leaves, run a quick final walk-through:

• Are appliances switched off or unplugged?
• Are portable heaters disconnected?
• Are fire doors closed?
• Are stock and equipment stored safely?
• Are flammables removed from heat sources?

Think of it like a pre-flight checklist – simple, but it can prevent the most avoidable claims.

And finally… enjoy the break

A lot of business owners struggle to switch off at Christmas, but preparing your premises – and having the right cover in place – means you can relax knowing your business is protected.

If you need help reviewing your cover before the holidays or are looking for a commercial insurance quote, we’re here to help you make sure the right protections are in place.

Because Christmas downtime should be spent eating chocolate and doing as little as possible – not worrying about insurance claims waiting to happen.

Get in touch on 01223 222 562 and we’ll help make sure your business is protected this festive season.