Dictionary of Insurance Terms: occupancy and fire rates
occupancy and fire rates
direct relationship between the use to which a building is put and the likelihood that it will catch on fire. Occupancy is one of the most important factors in setting fire insurance rates. For example, a building that houses an explosives manufacturer is at much greater risk than one occupied by a jewelry boutique. Other factors that influence the risk of fire are geographical location, construction, nature of the neighborhood, and the adequacy of protective devices.

