Three misconceptions about hybrid working and IT equipment coverage

The pandemic forced employers to allow employees to take computer equipment away from business premises, heralding a new era of remote working. Although some companies have subsequently mandated their staff to partially return to the office, the trend towards hybrid working remains strong in 2024.

Undoubtedly hybrid working has revolutionised the way we work, but it may also be a catalyst for new potential risk exposures over the longer term. As employees divide their time between home and the office, businesses face new challenges in managing their computer insurance cover to mitigate the risks and costs associated with modern working trends.

Research by HSB highlighted that 46% of employed and self-employed workers have accidentally damaged or lost IT work equipment. Typical causes include physical damage from trips or falls, spillages and theft whilst commuting.

Despite these findings, a separate HSB survey revealed that over two-thirds of UK insurance brokers believe their commercial clients have given little consideration about the implications of hybrid working on their computer insurance, with only 29% adequately contemplating the associated risks.

This article considers three misconceptions about computer insurance in relation to hybrid working, and how brokers can help their clients to ensure appropriate coverage is in place.