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Business insurance

Business interruption insurance protects against losses sustained due to periods of suspended operations. It pays for loss of revenue that would have been earned if a business was not interrupted. There are many types of policies, but coverage typically applies only when there has been property damage to the business. Many policies have specific exclusions for viral infections, such as COVID-19.

This page provides frequently asked questions about business insurance.

Information on the COVID-19 webpages changes frequently and is updated regularly. Check back often for the most up-to-date information.

If you have questions about your specific insurance coverage or financial services account, contact the company that handles your policy or account.

If you have questions or need to file a complaint on an insurance company or agent, contact the division’s advocacy team at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@oregon.gov.

Your business interruption insurance policy should list or describe the types of events it covers. Events that are not listed on, or not described in, the policy are typically not covered. It is important to review the policy exclusions, coverage limits, and applicable deductibles. You should also determine if the policy requires your business interruption to last for a certain time period before you are entitled to any policy benefits.

Business interruption coverage typically applies only after a property loss that leads to the interruption. An example is a fire in your office forces you to suspend business activities.

Coverage varies across policies. It is important to read your particular policy and speak with your insurance company representative for more information.​​


Most business interruption policies do not cover losses from a pandemic, such as COVID-19. Most policies require physical damage to the property for coverage to apply.

Check to see if your policy specifically provides coverage for a pandemic or epidemic.


Most business interruption insurance covers only loss of income that results from physical damage to property. Business interruption policies typically exclude coverage for a pandemic/epidemic. A state of emergency declaration does not change the terms of your business interruption policy.

Some policies may cover loss of income due to a pandemic/epidemic, but only for a limited amount of time. Contact your insurance company to see if your policy covers an epidemic or pandemic.​​


Insurance coverage can vary depending on the type of policy you have. Check with your insurance company or agent to see if your policy covers an epidemic or pandemic. Most business interruption policies cover business closures for events such as fire, a burst pipe, or a windstorm.​​


Most business interruption insurance covers only loss of income that results from physical damage to property. It is unlikely that stalled inventory will trigger business interruption coverage. Insurance coverage can vary depending on the type of policy you have. Check with your insurance company or agent to see if your policy covers an epidemic or pandemic.​​


Most business interruption insurance covers only loss of income that results from physical damage to property, so it is unlikely that travel restrictions or space closures will trigger business interruption coverage. Check with your insurance company or agent to see if your policy covers an epidemic or pandemic.​​


Business interruption memo