I know you have been receiving an onslaught of emails from various contacts and stores regarding how they are handling the current COVID-19 situation and so have hesitated to send out one of my own. However, since the virus has continued to spread and the government has put stringent guidelines in place, I felt the need to reach out to you.

Please see the latest on the California Covid-19 website which (in my professional opinion and interpretation) allows for construction services to continue. My hope is that by sharing this information, it will help our construction and small business community in deciding how to operate going forward, at least in the immediate short-term. (Please forward as deemed appropriate.)

https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/

Here are a few other interpretations:

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-03-19/coronavirus-garcetti-how-safer-at-home-order-works

https://www.constructiondive.com/news/in-most-us-cities-construction-work-continues-as-shutdowns-loom/574458/

i.e. City and County of LA interpretations of businesses specifically exempted from the order to shut down, to include:

“Hardware and building supply stores, and nurseries.

Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, custodial/janitorial workers, handyman services, funeral home workers and morticians, moving services, heating, ventilation and air conditioning installers, carpenters, landscapers, gardeners, property managers, private security personnel and other service providers who provide services to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operation to properties and other essential activities discussed in this subsection.

Businesses that supply other essential businesses with the support, services or supplies necessary to operate, provided that strict social distancing is maintained. This section includes, without limitation, utility companies.”

This exception appears to be at least a glimmer of hope for construction business and several small businesses alike providing what the state considers “essential” services necessary to at least maintaining the safety and sanitation of homes and businesses and continuity of operation of the federal critical infrastructure sectors, critical government services, schools, childcare, and construction, including housing construction.

HOWEVER: If you are going to remain in business in any fashion, then I cannot stress the importance of operating responsibly (to protect yourself, your employees and the public) in order to avoid spreading or contracting the disease within our local communities.

The Financial Services Sector represents a vital component of our nation’s critical infrastructure (https://www.cisa.gov/financial-services-sector). Here at Craft Guard Insurance Services,  we continue to focus on providing exceptional client service and support. Our current client service model will allow us to continue to service you without interruption, as our staff members are able to work remotely.

Now, back to you: we have developed customizable programs to help our clients through this time, including ways to reduce down payments, monthly payments, and total premiums. And it is important to note that mid-term changes are ok (you do not need to wait until your current policy expires). We can help you determine if a mid-term change makes financial sense for you and your business. Now might be the best time ever to let us have a thorough look at all of your business insurance needs.

Last, but certainly not least, The White House and Senate leaders struck a major deal early Wednesday morning over a $2-trillion package to provide a jolt to our economy. The full details have yet to be released, but over the last 24 hours, the elements of the proposal have come into sharper focus, with $250 billion set aside for direct payments to individuals and families, $250 billion in unemployment insurance benefits, $500 billion in loans for distressed companies, and $350 billion in small business loans (Want to know more about SBA loans and how to apply? Try the SBA site here, and/or one of our trusted local SBA reps, here).

We feel incredibly blessed to call such a strong, resilient sector of the American economy our clients. Entrepreneurs are resourceful. They provide services and products with fewer people and resources than big businesses… Entrepreneurs represent the backbone of America.

Please let us know how we can be of service to you today. God Bless America.