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Insurance Checklist for Small Businesses

A practical checklist of the insurance policies every small business in Sint Maarten should consider β€” from property and liability to cyber and business interruption.

By Compass InsurancesΒ·7 min readΒ·Updated June 2025

Why Insurance Is Critical for Sint Maarten Businesses

Running a business in Sint Maarten comes with unique risks β€” hurricane exposure, a tourism-dependent economy, and the challenges of operating on a small island. The right insurance portfolio protects your investment, your employees, and your ability to recover after an unexpected event.

Your Business Insurance Checklist

Commercial Property Insurance

Essential

Covers your building, equipment, and inventory against fire, theft, and storm damage.

Public Liability Insurance

Essential

Protects your business if a customer or third party is injured on your premises or due to your operations.

Business Interruption Insurance

Essential

Replaces lost income if your business cannot operate due to a covered event such as a hurricane or fire.

Employers' Liability Insurance

Required if you have staff

Required if you have employees β€” covers claims from staff injured or made ill through work.

Professional Indemnity Insurance

Recommended for service businesses

Protects service-based businesses against claims of negligence or errors in professional advice.

Cyber Liability Insurance

Increasingly important

Covers costs related to data breaches, ransomware attacks, and cyber incidents.

Commercial Vehicle Insurance

Required if using vehicles

Covers vehicles used for business purposes β€” often not covered under personal auto policies.

Group Health & Life Insurance

Recommended

Attract and retain employees by offering group health and life benefits.

Hurricane Risk: A Special Consideration for Sint Maarten Businesses

Sint Maarten sits in the heart of the Atlantic hurricane belt. Hurricane Irma in 2017 caused catastrophic damage to businesses across the island. Ensure your commercial property policy includes named storm coverage and that your business interruption policy covers hurricane-related closures.

  • Review your policy's hurricane deductible β€” it is often higher than the standard deductible
  • Document your assets with photos and video before hurricane season (June–November)
  • Ensure your business interruption coverage includes an adequate indemnity period
  • Consider contingent business interruption coverage if you rely on key suppliers

How Much Does Business Insurance Cost?

Business insurance costs in Sint Maarten vary widely depending on your industry, the size of your business, the value of your assets, and the coverage limits you select. A small retail business might pay a few hundred dollars per month for a basic package, while a larger operation with multiple employees and significant property could pay considerably more.

The best way to get an accurate quote is to speak with a licensed broker who can assess your specific risks and recommend appropriate coverage levels.

Protect your business with the right coverage

Compass Insurances works with Sint Maarten businesses of all sizes to build tailored insurance packages. Request a free consultation today.

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