As summer gives way to autumn, restaurants aren’t just changing their menus — they’re changing their risk profile. From seasonal menu items and private party bookings to extended outdoor dining in cooler weather, the fall hospitality season brings a mix of opportunity and liability. For insurance agents, this shift is the perfect time to revisit clients’ policies and ensure their restaurant insurance is ready for what’s ahead.
Restaurants heading into fall face a unique blend of challenges. Crowds grow for football season and themed events. Kitchens work with higher-risk seasonal ingredients. Patio heaters become as important as barstools. Each change creates potential exposure — and each is a chance for an agent to demonstrate value.
The move into fall doesn’t mean outdoor dining disappears; it simply changes form. Patio heaters and fire pits make cool evenings more inviting, but they also introduce fire, burn, and ventilation hazards if not used correctly.
With larger crowds for events like Oktoberfest or harvest festivals, the risk landscape shifts. Seasonal promotions often increase liquor liability exposure, especially when sports season brings in high-energy fans.
Menus also evolve. Certain seasonal produce, like cauliflower and pears, may have a shorter shelf life or higher spoilage risk, requiring additional attention to food safety.
Slip-and-fall hazards from wet leaves or early frost add another layer of seasonal liability. Agents should flag potential weather threats for their restaurant accounts.
Fall offers a natural conversation starter with clients. It’s a chance to show them that coverage isn’t static. Here’s how.
By positioning themselves as proactive advisors, agents can protect clients and reinforce the value of ongoing policy reviews.
Fall can be one of the most profitable seasons for restaurants — but only if their insurance is as ready as their seasonal menus. Encourage clients to schedule a policy review before major events or promotions launch.
Partnering with RMS Hospitality Group gives agents access to tailored hospitality insurance programs and the industry insight needed to keep coverage aligned with evolving risks. Now’s the time to connect with clients, assess their needs, and make sure they’re ready for every celebration the season brings.
Contact RMS Hospitality Group to discover the benefits of partnering on hospitality program insurance for your accounts.
Restaurant insurance is a specialized set of policies designed to address the unique risks in the food service industry. This coverage can apply to a wide range of operations — from fine dining restaurants and fast-casual eateries to food trucks, caterers, bars, and nightclubs. For agents, offering the right mix of protection helps clients safeguard against financial losses that could threaten their operations.
Premiums vary based on a client’s location, size, cuisine type, operational hours, alcohol service, claims history, staffing, and chosen coverages. Factors include:
Yes. Agents can guide clients toward potential savings by recommending bundled coverage, working with a hospitality-focused insurance partner, and implementing strong safety protocols and risk-management programs.
At RMS Hospitality Group, our expertly crafted policies are written specifically for the hospitality industry. We offer custom-tailored solutions to meet any venue’s specific needs. For more information, contact our knowledgeable experts today at (888) 359-8390.
At RMS and associated firms, business continues as usual. Our staff is remote-capable and available to handle all partners, brokers, and insureds at the present time.
