02/17/26

Five common business insurance myths in Oregon

Insurance for Businesses

When protecting your business, misconceptions about business insurance can lead to costly mistakes. Many Oregon business owners assume they don’t need coverage, believe their general liability policy protects against all risks, or underestimate the importance of specialized insurance. However, these myths can leave businesses vulnerable to financial loss, legal issues, and operational setbacks. Elliott, Powell, Baden, and Baker has a dedicated business insurance team to guide businesses in making informed decisions and finding the proper coverage and protection. Here are five common commercial insurance myths in Oregon to consider, and the truth behind them.

1. Small Businesses Don’t Need Insurance

Myth: Only large corporations need commercial insurance.
Truth: All businesses, regardless of size, face risks such as property damage, lawsuits, cyberattacks, and employee injuries. A sole proprietorship or home-based business can also suffer financial losses without proper coverage. Oregon law requires Workers’ Compensation coverage for most Oregon companies with employees.

2. General Liability Covers Everything

Myth: Your business is fully protected if you have General Liability insurance.
Truth: General liability insurance covers some third-party claims involving bodily injury or property damage but not everything that could happen to a business is covered. For example, General Liability insurance doesn’t cover damage to your auto (Business Auto) workplace injuries to employees (Workers’ Comp), cyberattacks (Cyber Liability), or professional mistakes (E&O insurance). Businesses often need multiple policies to be fully protected.

3. Commercial Auto Insurance Isn’t Necessary for Personal Vehicles

Myth: If you or your employees use personal vehicles for work, your personal auto policy will not cover accidents.
Maybe: Depending upon your business, your personal auto insurance policy may exclude business use. If you or your employees drive for business purposes (deliveries, transporting goods, etc.), you may need commercial auto insurance to avoid denied claims.

4. Cyber Insurance is Only for Tech Companies

Myth: Only large tech companies need cyber liability insurance.
Truth: Every business that stores customer data, accepts credit card payments, or uses digital systems is at risk. Small and medium-sized businesses are often prime targets for cybercriminals. Cyber insurance helps cover data breaches, ransomware attacks, and regulatory fines.

5. Workers’ Compensation is Only for Dangerous Jobs

Myth: Only construction and manufacturing companies need workers’ compensation insurance.
Truth: Oregon law requires almost all businesses (even if you only have one employee) to have Workers’ compensation insurance, regardless of industry. Office jobs, retail, and hospitality workers can still suffer injuries like repetitive strain, slips, or falls. Without coverage, businesses may face fines and liability for medical costs.

Understanding the truth behind these myths can help Oregon business owners avoid financial losses, legal issues, and operational disruptions. Professional guidance on the right commercial insurance is essential for your business. Contact EPB&B, and we can help you find the right insurance for your business.

02/09/26

EPB&B Insurance Proudly joins the Portland Trail Blazers Small Business Partner Program

EPB&B In The News

At EPB&B Insurance, community isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we live every day. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our new role as a Portland Trailblazers Small Business Partner for 2026.

This opportunity is especially meaningful to our team because EPB&B has been proud Trail Blazers season ticket holders since 1969. For more than five decades, we’ve cheered from the stands, celebrated unforgettable moments, and watched generations of fans come together around Portland’s hometown team. Becoming a Small Business Partner feels like a natural next step in a relationship that’s been building for over half a century.

Two Portland Institutions, One Shared Community Spirit

Just like the Trail Blazers, Elliott, Powell, Baden & Baker, Inc. has deep roots in the Portland area. For over 70 years, EPB&B has served individuals, families, and businesses across the Pacific Northwest, helping protect what matters most while building long-term relationships grounded in trust and service.

Both organizations are woven into the fabric of Portland; Showing up for the community, supporting local initiatives, and bringing people together. Whether it’s on the court or in the neighborhoods we serve, the focus has always been on connection, commitment, and doing things the right way.

Looking Ahead to an Exciting Year

We’re incredibly proud to support a team that represents the heart and resilience of Portland. This opportunity allows EPB&B to further invest in the community we love while celebrating a franchise that has brought joy, pride, and unforgettable memories to so many.

“After being Trailblazers fans since the first game ever, EPB&B is excited to be a small business partner, Says EPB&B President MArc Baker. We are grateful to enhance our partnership with an organization that has done so much for our community. Go Blazers!”

As we head into the 2026 season, we look forward to a year filled with exciting games, meaningful community engagement, and continued opportunities with the Trail Blazers organization.

02/02/26

7 essential tips to disaster proof your Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners Insurance

If disaster strikes your home in the Pacific Northwest, you will need homeowners insurance coverage to help you rebuild, repair and replace the damage that occurred. As you deal with the uncertainty and stress of recovery, the last thing you need to is try and wade through insurance process wondering if and how your home with be protected from loss. Take action now. Let the team at EPB&B help you you evaluate your coverage and guide you through the insurance process before disaster strikes. Here are seven ways to be proactive in protecting you and your home.

Review Your Policy: Carefully review your homeowners insurance policy to understand what types of damages are covered, and the specific coverage limits and deductibles that apply to your personal property.
Document Your Belongings: Create a home inventory documenting all of your personal belongings, including furniture, electronics, appliances, clothing, jewelry, and other valuable items. Take photos or videos of each item, and keep receipts or records of purchase prices if available. Store this inventory in a safe place, such as a fireproof safe or an off-site location, so you can easily access it in the event of a diaster.
Update Your Coverage Limits: If your current coverage limits for personal property are insufficient to replace all of your belongings in the event of a total loss, consider increasing your coverage limits. The EPB&B team can help you determine the appropriate coverage levels based on the value of your belongings.
Consider Scheduled Personal Property Coverage: If you have high-value items such as jewelry, art, or collectibles, consider adding scheduled personal property coverage to your policy. This provides additional coverage for specific items that may exceed the standard limits of your policy.
Understand Coverage Exclusions: Be aware of any exclusions or limitations in your policy regarding coverage for specific types of belongings or circumstances. For example, some policies may have limits on coverage for business equipment or recreational vehicles stored on your property.
Maintain Documentation: Keep records of your insurance policy, including contact information for your insurance company or agent, policy numbers, and any endorsements or riders that modify your coverage. Make sure you know how to file a claim and understand the claims process in case you need to make a claim for damage to your belongings.
Regularly Review and Update Your Policy: Periodically review your homeowners insurance policy to ensure that your coverage adequately protects your belongings and reflects any changes in your circumstances, such as home renovations, additions to your personal property, or changes in the value of your belongings.

By taking these steps, you can increase the chances that your belongings are adequately covered in the event they are damaged by a natural disaster, providing you with peace of mind and financial protection during a challenging time.