A new report from Axa indicates that crime cost small-to-medium firms at least £722m in 2005.
Theft accounted for 45% of all claims, followed by arson (42%) and malicious damage (12%).
Neil Mercier, property insurance manager at Axa, said: "The findings demonstrate just how much of a problem crime is for small and medium-sized businesses."
The report also highlights under-claiming by businesses.
