End-of-Season Checklist for Golf Course Owners: What Insurance Brokers Want You to Know
As the golf season winds down and the cooler weather sets in, golf course owners face a key transition period. Ensuring that your course remains in top shape for the next season requires more than just routine maintenance; it’s also crucial for mitigating risks and securing the financial stability of your business.. Here’s an end-of-season checklist designed to protect your assets, reduce liabilities, and ensure a successful reopening in the spring.
Review and Update Insurance Policies
The end of the golf season is an excellent time to review your insurance policies to ensure they still meet your needs. As you approach the off-season, your business should assess the following types of coverage:
Property Insurance
Ensure your policy covers any damage to course structures, including clubhouses, maintenance buildings, and other facilities. It’s important to reassess your property insurance to ensure it fully encompasses any changes or improvements made recently. This may include renovations, expansions, or newly added features to your course. Confirming that your coverage limits accurately reflect the current value of your property is crucial for adequate protection against potential damage or loss.
Liability Coverage
Review your liability coverage to make sure it protects against potential claims related to accidents on the course. This includes coverage for injuries to golfers or visitors and property damage.
Equipment Insurance
Golf courses often have significant investments in equipment such as mowers, carts, and irrigation systems. Verify that your equipment insurance covers loss or damage due to theft, vandalism, or accidents.
Conduct a Risk Assessment
Evaluate any risks that may have emerged over the past season or any that may pose a threat during the off-season. Consider factors such as:
Weather Damage
Winter weather can be harsh on Canadian golf courses. Review your policy for weather-related claims and ensure you have adequate coverage for potential damage from snow, ice, or storms.
Vandalism and Theft
Off-season periods can sometimes see an increase in vandalism or theft, especially on courses that are left unattended. Assess whether your security measures and insurance coverage address these risks.
Update Property Inventories
Conduct a comprehensive inventory of all your assets, including course equipment, clubhouses, and maintenance tools. Update your records to reflect any new purchases, repairs, or disposals. This will help you ensure you have proper coverage based on your updated inventory, and can more easily facilitate claims if you experience a loss or damages.
Address Seasonal Maintenance Needs
Ensuring that your course is properly maintained over the offseason is an excellent risk management strategy to prevent predictable claims. Focus on:
Irrigation Systems
Drain and winterize irrigation systems to prevent freeze damage.
Course Equipment
Service and store equipment properly to extend its lifespan and reduce the risk of damage.
Facility Maintenance
Inspect and repair any damage to buildings, roofs, or other structures to avoid more significant issues in the future.
Review Employee Coverage
If your golf course employs seasonal or year-round staff, review their insurance coverage to ensure it meets current regulations and adequately protects the employees and your business. Consider workers’ compensation and liability for employee actions.
Plan for the Unexpected
Having a contingency plan for unexpected events can save time and stress if an incident occurs during the off-season. Consider updating and maintaining a list of emergency contacts, such as contractors, repair services, and insurance representatives. Your emergency plan should also address potential disasters like severe weather, fires, or flooding.
Schedule a Professional Insurance Review
Finally, consider scheduling a meeting with your insurance broker to conduct a thorough review of your policies. At Gifford Carr, our team of professionals can provide valuable insights into any gaps in coverage and recommend adjustments based on the latest industry trends and regulations.
The end of the golf season is a critical time for golf course owners to take stock of their operations and insurance needs. By following this checklist, you can ensure that your course is protected against potential risks and ready for the next season. Regularly updating your insurance coverage and addressing potential risks will not only safeguard your property but also give you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on providing a top-notch experience for your golfers.
For personalized advice and to ensure your coverage is up-to-date, don’t hesitate to reconnect with your Gifford Carr insurance broker. We can help you navigate the complexities of insurance and ensure that your golf course is well-prepared for whatever the off-season might bring.
