A customer contacted a local rental store to rent some items for a weekend party. Tables, chairs, linens and dishes were ordered, delivered and set up by the rental store’s employees. The party went smoothly and the rental store’s employees arrived at the home the next morning to pick up the rental items. Unfortunately, one of the tables caused some damage to the home.

Typically, property damage claims involving tables result from the feet of the table scratching flooring, a wall being hit while moving tables or a table collapsing and damaging items set on it. However in this case, the table was being picked up to be carried out of the room and struck a chandelier overhead. Luckily, no one was hurt and a claim for property damage was submitted to the rental store’s insurance company, so the homeowner could be compensated for the damaged chandelier.

Remind your employees to use caution while delivering and picking up equipment.

This item, provided by ARA Insurance Services, Kansas City, Mo., is the story of a real-life insurance claim involving a rental store and is intended to help readers better understand and manage risk. For more safety and risk management information, customers of ARA Insurance Services can log on to ReSource. Access is free, so if you haven’t signed up yet, contact your agent or call 800-821-6580.