President Trump’s sweeping reintroduction of aggressive tariff policies in 2025 is creating economic shockwaves across multiple sectors of the U.S. economy. While the political and international implications of these measures dominate headlines, one critical and often overlooked consequence lies in the world of insurance—specifically, how tariffs are driving up the cost of property and vehicle insurance claims.
As tariffs increase the prices of imported construction materials, vehicle parts, and various essential goods, the cost of replacing or repairing damaged property or vehicles escalates in tandem. This dynamic inevitably impacts the insurance industry, forcing providers to adjust premiums to match rising claim expenses. As a result, businesses and consumers alike are facing increased insurance rates across the board.
Impact on Vehicle Insurance
One of the most immediate and noticeable effects of Trump’s trade policies is in the realm of vehicle insurance. Many of the tariffs target Chinese goods, including original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket auto parts, with some facing duties as high as 50%. Since over half of all U.S. vehicle parts are imported, this tariff strategy is causing a sharp increase in repair costs—even for minor vehicle damage.
According to the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), these changes could result in an additional $7 billion to $24 billion annually in auto insurance claim costs. The ripple effect on premiums is already being felt, with Insurify projecting that full-coverage auto insurance premiums could increase by 19% by the end of the year.
For commercial fleets, this impact is particularly severe. Businesses that rely on vehicles for operations are facing:
- Longer downtimes due to delayed parts availability.
- Increased premiums.
- Higher out-of-pocket costs for repairs.
- Operational disruptions stemming from extended vehicle repair cycles.
Impact on Commercial Property Insurance
The effects are just as profound in the realm of commercial property insurance, especially with construction materials now subject to steep tariffs. Notable increases include:
- 25% tariffs on steel (with an additional increase to 50% on June 4).
- 20% tariffs on Canadian lumber.
- A promised 50% tariff on copper used extensively in wiring and other infrastructure.
- Tariffs expanded to include household appliances, impacting both residential and commercial developments.
These tariffs have significantly increased the cost to rebuild or repair damaged buildings. The National Association of Home Builders estimates that tariffs have added $7,500 to $11,000 to the average cost of building a new home. For commercial properties, the figure is even higher due to the larger scale and complexity of such structures.
These increased construction costs translate directly into higher property claims. For insurers, the more it costs to repair or rebuild, the more they pay out—leading to increased premiums for policyholders.
Business Interruption and Supply Chain Risks
Beyond direct cost increases, tariffs pose a serious threat to business continuity. Higher raw material prices can create instability in supply chains, exposing businesses to production delays and increased risk of business interruption (BI) claims.
Industries most vulnerable to this include:
- Electronics and technology.
- Automotive manufacturing.
- Construction.
- Apparel and textiles.
Many companies in these sectors depend on a steady stream of imports from Asia. Even slight cost hikes or delivery delays can interrupt operations, cause missed deadlines, and decrease profitability.
Insurers are taking note. Policies that cover business interruption or supply chain risks are being re-evaluated, and underwriting standards may be tightening in response to this growing uncertainty.
How Business Owners Can Respond
The volatile nature of the current trade environment—marked by unpredictable policy changes and frequent tariff revisions—makes it especially difficult for insurers to forecast future claims costs. This lack of predictability may lead to:
- More conservative underwriting.
- Increased premiums.
- Stricter policy conditions.
To protect their operations and manage rising insurance expenses, business owners should consider the following strategies:
1. Review Replacement Costs and Policy Limits
Ensure your property insurance policies reflect up-to-date rebuilding and repair costs, considering the latest inflation in materials and labor. Outdated policy limits could leave you underinsured during a claim.
2. Consider Higher Deductibles
Increasing your deductible can help reduce your premium. However, weigh this against the potential for higher out-of-pocket costs in the event of a loss.
3. Plan for Extended Claims Cycles
Understand that claims may take longer to settle, particularly for property and auto insurance. Incorporate these delays into your business continuity planning and maintain contingency reserves where possible.
4. Diversify Supply Chains
If your business depends on suppliers from countries affected by high tariffs, explore alternative vendors in non-tariff regions. Diversifying your supply chain can reduce the risk of operational delays and help maintain business stability.
How BGES Group Can Help
At BGES Group, we understand how geopolitical and economic shifts—like the recent resurgence in tariffs—can dramatically impact your insurance needs. We specialize in helping businesses navigate complex risk environments and optimize their insurance programs accordingly.
With over 40 years of experience serving the insurance needs of companies across industries, our team provides tailored insurance solutions that respond to real-world challenges, like increased material costs, extended supply chains, and evolving liability risks.
Our services include:
- Property and Casualty Insurance
- Commercial Auto and Fleet Insurance
- Business Interruption and Supply Chain Risk Coverage
- Workers’ Compensation Programs
- Cyber Liability and Professional Liability Coverage
- Risk Management Consulting
- Policy Audits and Cost Containment Strategies
Whether you’re a construction company facing increased rebuild costs, a fleet operator impacted by rising repair prices, or a manufacturer concerned about supply chain interruptions, BGES Group can help you adjust, adapt, and protect your business.
We work closely with each client to:
- Analyze exposures.
- Update policy coverages and limits.
- Find cost-effective insurance solutions.
- Provide ongoing risk management support.
Contact BGES Group Today
Don’t let tariff-induced volatility threaten your bottom line. Partner with BGES Group and gain a trusted insurance advisor who puts your business first.
📞 Call us at: (914) 806-5853 📧 Email: bgesgroup@gmail.com 🌐 Visit our website: www.bgesgroup.com
Let us show you how we can help reduce your insurance costs, improve your coverage, and protect your business in an ever-changing economic landscape.