Unusual exposures
Specialty insurers may consider difficult classes, catastrophe exposure, loss history or new ventures.
Specialty Placement
E&S and specialty insurance.
Options for risks that do not fit standard underwriting. The difference is in the policy terms.
Talk to our team →
What we look at.
Capacity and layers
Evaluate how primary and excess policies fit together, including exclusions and attachment points.
Know the tradeoffs
Compare forms, taxes, fees, minimum-earned premium and applicable guaranty-fund limitations.
Catastrophe Property
Specialty capacity for properties whose catastrophe exposure or characteristics fall outside standard appetite.
Tough Loss History
Present valued loss information and evidence of corrective action. Availability and terms depend on the account and market.
New Ventures
Assess options for new entities, unfamiliar operations or limited loss history.
High and Excess Limits
Combine capacity where appropriate while comparing attachment points and exclusions.
Unusual Operations
Evaluate underwriting approaches for operations that do not fit standard products or classifications.
Form Comparison Before Binding
E&S policies can use standard or proprietary forms. Compare exclusions, sublimits, warranties and cancellation terms before binding.
Claims-Made Mechanics
Review retroactive dates, reporting requirements and extended reporting options before any change.
Wholesale Market Access
Access through commercial placement partners, including the FirstChoice Risk Placement Team and specialist wholesalers, subject to eligibility.
What to bring to a review
Bring a clear operating description, current terms, loss history and the placement problem you need to solve.
Questions & answers
Good questions to ask.
Is surplus lines a regulated market?
Yes. Eligible non-admitted insurers and surplus-lines placements operate within a regulatory framework. Forms, taxes, placement requirements and guaranty-fund protections differ from admitted insurance and vary by jurisdiction.
Does E&S always cost more or provide less coverage?
No. Compare the actual premium, fees, limits and policy wording. Specialty flexibility can be useful, but terms and insurer quality need careful review.
What does minimum earned premium mean?
It is a minimum portion of premium that may remain payable or nonrefundable under the policy's cancellation terms. Review the percentage, applicable charges and treatment before binding, especially if a sale or closure is possible.
From our journal
Related articles.
Let's talk about your insurance.
Tell us about your business and what you need.