Business interruption: How does civil authority coverage apply?

Coverage Q&A: The insured's business policy containing virus coverage also has an extension for civil authority.

A business closed due to COVID-19. (Photo: J. Albert Diaz/ALM)

Every claim is different, and some insurance policies can be difficult to interpret for unique situations. FC&S Expert Coverage Interpretation, the recognized authority on insurance coverage interpretation and analysis for the P&C industry, makes it simple to find credible answers to your complicated coverage questions. Analysis brought to you by our FC&S experts. 

Editor’s Note: This week’s question covers the hot topic of the day — insureds seeking coverage for business interruption coverage relating to the coronavirus pandemic. Unlike the majority of policies, this insured’s policy provides coverage for viruses for specified causes of loss (other than fire or lightning) or equipment breakdown.

Question: In Florida, many non-essential businesses were shut down due to orders from the governor and various county governments.

My insured has a business owner’s policy with The Hartford. The policy includes $50,000 for viruses with a coverage extension for civil authority. However, The Hartford denied the insured’s claim for business interruption loss. Does civil authority prevail without physical damage? 

— Florida Subscriber

Answer: To learn the answer to this week’s coverage Q&A, please log into your FC&S Expert Coverage Interpretation account.

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