3 Factors to Consider When Insuring Your Business in Nevada
Nevada is the 6th fastest growing state in terms of population since 2018. This influx can be attributed to the state’s lower cost of living than its neighboring states, with the same beautiful weather. The growing population has helped Nevada’s economy continue to grow over the past five years at a rate of 17.5%.
This growth is thanks to the many diverse industries that thrive in Nevada. While the state is primarily known for its entertainment industry, revenue from hospitals, public schools, small businesses and construction companies also plays a part. With Nevada’s gross domestic product growth surpassing the national average, businesses looking to move to the state can find great success in the diverse economy and growing labor force.
Nevada also boasts no individual income tax and a favorable corporate income tax. These tax benefits coupled with lower property prices compared to nearby states, make Nevada an enticing place for Americans looking to move to the Southwest. However, with these unique benefits come state-specific factors that come into play when looking for business insurance in Nevada.
While Nevada deals a good hand to business owners, it’s still vital you understand the state’s rules. Keep reading for expert advice from Jason Veichnicki, a territory sales Manager at Central Insurance, on the characteristics that set Nevada apart and how they influence the insurance coverage you need.
Factor 1: Business in the City
Nevada is home to two popular cities where businesses can find success. Las Vegas and Reno offer distinct business landscapes, each with its own opportunities and risks that can impact the insurance coverage you want. While comprehensive coverage is recommended regardless of location, let’s discuss the factors that make some options non-negotiable to protect your business.
Reno
Businesses lead Reno’s economy in the technology, finance, and entrepreneurial sectors. The mid-sized city offers a bustling ecosystem for businesses in these industries to thrive, which means there are specialized insurance options that can address common risks to take your business’s success one step further.
Reno is home to an innovative information technology industry, which means hackers are drawn to the city to commit cyber attacks. With the rise of digital innovation and data-driven technologies being used across all sectors, businesses in Reno should prioritize a cyber suite insurance policy. Cyber insurance protects against data breaches, cyber attacks, and privacy violations that could compromise your business’s or your customers’ sensitive information.
Las Vegas
In 2023, Las Vegas welcomed 40.8 million visitors with its thriving entertainment and hospitality industries. With so many temporary customers pouring in who are looking for fun in the city, businesses want to prioritize liability insurance to protect against claims arising from injuries or property damage on their premises. Additionally, given the city’s nightlife and tourist attractions, businesses may opt for liquor liability coverage to mitigate risks from alcohol-related incidents.
“Las Vegas is far more litigious compared to somewhere like Reno,” explains Veichnicki. “People don’t realize when they move to Nevada that their cost structure for coverage will look a lot different compared to neighboring states.”
By tailoring insurance coverage to the needs and risk exposures of your location, you can mitigate sector-specific loss that is common in your city. Before a business moves here, Veichnicki recommends vetting your contracts and insurance limits with a local insurance broker who can help you develop a budgetary plan. Meeting with an insurance agent is always your best bet to get the most comprehensive coverage for your business.
Factor 2: Unique Legal Climate
Across the state, businesses must navigate a unique legal climate, emphasizing the importance of a proactive risk management plan and adequate insurance coverage. In industries such as construction or manufacturing, where stringent regulations and potential for litigation are prevalent, businesses may require specialized policies. A contractor liability policy can mitigate risks associated with project delays, property damage, or subcontractor disputes.
Given the increase in lawsuits against businesses in Nevada, businesses across all sectors should prioritize a general liability insurance policy to protect against claims of bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury. The state is also characterized by complex regulations in certain industries, particularly entertainment, healthcare, and construction. Viechnicki emphasizes the importance of staying on top of regulatory changes, “Be familiar with the types of laws that your business is associated with. It can vary from state to state and greatly impact your insurance needs.”
Mandatory Auto Insurance
Nevada law mandates all vehicles, including those used for business, must carry minimum liability insurance coverage. However, there are other reasons why your business will want to invest in a comprehensive auto policy. Nevada’s tourism and hospitality industries attract many out-of-town drivers on congested roadways, increasing the risk of accidents.
Veichnicki stresses the importance of loss control for businesses with a vehicle fleet, no matter the size. This includes driver safety programs, routine vehicles inspections and telematic systems. Telematics is one of the best options for businesses looking to protect their fleet. “From a commercial auto standpoint, from Reno to Las Vegas, Telematics is a necessary investment,” explains Veichnicki, “if not today or tomorrow, eventually all insurance companies will require it.”
While telematics are not a guaranteed way to prevent loss, it is a guaranteed way to help you in the event of a loss incident. From optimizing routes and vehicle maintenance management to determining blame in a collision and reducing insurance premiums, Telematics can save your business lots of money.
Factor 3: Nevada’s Tax Environment
One of the most appealing benefits of the state is the lack of a personal and corporate income tax. In fact, Nevada is the most tax friendly state, where the median family only owes about 3% of its income in taxes. With higher disposable income and increased consumer spending as a result of these tax breaks, businesses are encouraged to consider other investments to secure their financial future.
Expansion initiatives can be a common consideration for entrepreneurs looking for competitive advantages. When looking to expand, it is vital to discuss comprehensive property insurance with your insurance agent. Doing this safeguards new property or construction projects from risks like fire, theft, or natural disasters, all depending on your budgetary plan.
Businesses may also consider investing against potential financial losses in the form of specialized insurance coverage, as opposed to allocating significant resources towards tax planning. With more financial reserves and liquidity, businesses can opt for business interruption insurance to mitigate financial losses resulting from unexpected closures or disruptions.
Regardless of how you celebrate Nevada’s tax-friendly environment, risk management strategies remain crucial. By aligning your insurance coverage with your business objectives, you can effectively protect your assets while capitalizing on opportunities for growth and success in Nevada.
The Central Difference
Whether you’re opening a new business or relocating to Nevada, one of the best ways to stay updated on state-specific trends is to work closely with an insurance agent.
At Central, we work with only a small group of hand-selected, local insurance agents who take pride in delivering superior service to our policyholders. To understand your commercial rates better, your agent will be your best source for expert advice.
