At CapriCMW, we work with Bed and Breakfasts across British Columbia, developing custom solutions to protect their operations and support their growth.
With decades of experience and specialized expertise in the local hospitality industry, our dedicated Risk Advisors provide valuable insights for B&B owners to reduce their exposure to common liabilities.
Following a review of numerous safety inspection reports from insurance companies, we have put together a list of the most common recommendations. Here are five easy ways to make your B&B safer:
- Install guardrails/handrails in places where there are 3 or more risers; decks 2 feet or more in height or retaining walls where your landscape falls 2 feet or more.
- Do not store combustibles in your mechanical room - storage of these items increases the potential for fire exposures. All flammable and combustible materials should be removed from the vicinity of the heating and electrical equipment for your home.
- Portable fire extinguishers are considered the “first line of defense” against fires. They should be in good working order and maintained/serviced annually, as recommended. Make sure they are properly mounted so quick action can be taken by you or your guests.
- Woodburning fireplaces or appliances should be cleaned and serviced annually. WETT inspectors should be called in to inspect to ensure the safety of you and your guests. Installation of your woodburning appliance should be done to building code and inspected by a WETT inspector.
- Walk around your yard/landscape regularly to look for tripping hazards and possible holes or items that could cause injury. It is important to remember that your guests are not familiar with your yard, so even though you know of a small dip in the grass or an irrigation sprinkler head, they might not notice. If you have stairways in your yard, make sure they have handrails too if possible.
Typically, these recommendations are fairly easy to implement but make a big difference in keeping your B&B safe for guests in the long term.
For further insurance and risk management information, or to learn more about our custom solutions for Bed and Breakfasts, please contact Terry Leibel at 250 869 3978 or tleibel@capricmw.ca.