Search Blogs

November 12, 2025

Top Trending Insurance Markets of November 2025, Part 2: Transportation & Trucking Insurance

ProgramBusiness.com’s ongoing “Top Trending Insurance Markets” series highlights the most in-demand markets that agents are actively searching for on our platform. This month, transportation and trucking insurance programs are front and center.  Search data from ProgramBusiness.com indicates an increased interest in programs tailored for trucking fleets, owner-operators, and cargo carriers. The confluence of rising premiums, claims severity, regulatory pressure, and technology adoption is driving brokers and managing general agents (MGAs) to explore specialized trucking insurance solutions. Related article: Top Trending Insurance Markets of November 2025, Part 1: Public Entity Insurance

What Is Trucking Insurance? An Overview

Trucking insurance generally refers to commercial auto and related coverages tailored for businesses operating trucks, trailers, and for-hire fleets. Typical policy components include: 
  • Liability (bodily injury and property damage)
  • Physical damage to trucks and trailers
  • Motor truck cargo (for the goods being hauled)
  • Non-trucking liability (bobtail)
  • Specialized endorsements, such as trailer interchange, hired and non-owned, motor carrier legal liability, and logistical liability for last-mile operations 
Trucking exposures are regulated — for example, by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) — and are subject to driver shortages, driver turnover, and the evolving use of safety technology. Therefore, these programs require underwriting, claims service, and risk-control expertise beyond standard commercial auto. Trucking risks are too specialized for many standard commercial auto markets, so fleets often get better results through dedicated program insurers. These programs focus solely on trucking, providing them with the data, underwriting expertise, and tools necessary to evaluate fleets more accurately. That’s why program-based distribution works especially well for this class.

Market Trends Expected To Drive Demand for Trucking Insurance in 2026

Several converging factors are expected to drive strong demand for well-structured trucking insurance programs heading into 2026. Together, these trends explain why the trucking insurance market is trending strongly on the ProgramBusiness platform and why brokers are actively searching for program solutions.

Rising Premiums

Trucking insurance premiums have reached all-time highs, with several factors contributing to the rising costs. According to the American Transportation Research Institute’s 2024 Operational Costs of Trucking report, the cost of running a truck reached $2.27 per mile in 2023, with insurance premiums emerging as one of the fastest-rising expenses. While most cost categories increased moderately, truck insurance premiums jumped 12.5%, outpacing growth in driver wages, equipment payments, and repair costs.  The report also highlights operational challenges — such as rising deadhead miles, higher driver turnover, and a soft freight market — that pushed operating margins down to 6% or lower for nearly all fleet segments. These continued pressures underscore why cost management and targeted insurance solutions remain top priorities for carriers.

Litigation and Nuclear Verdicts

Large jury awards (verdicts exceeding $10 million) have grown more frequent in the trucking sector, driving up insurers’ loss costs and prompting carriers to raise terms. Meanwhile, insurers are tightening their underwriting criteria, demanding stronger driver records, safety programs, telematics, and documentation. Even fleets without major losses feel rate pressure.

Driver Turnover

The trucking industry continues to deal with persistent driver turnover, especially among large truckload carriers. This churn forces fleets to bring in a steady stream of newer or less-experienced drivers, which can weaken safety performance and lead to more variability in loss histories. For insurers, that inconsistency matters. Fleets with high turnover often show gaps in training, uneven safety scores, and limited long-term driver data, all of which can elevate risk profiles. As a result, turnover continues to influence underwriting decisions and remains a core factor behind rising insurance costs going into 2026.

Technology & Data

Telematics, dash cams, and real-time safety analytics are now part of the equation when insurers evaluate trucking risk. Tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) — including smart dash cams and predictive analytics — help fleets monitor driving behavior, reduce accidents, and present stronger safety data to underwriters. But this same technology introduces new questions. As fleets adopt more connected and AI-driven systems, cyber vulnerabilities grow, and liability becomes less clear. A collision involving automated driving features, for example, could shift scrutiny from the driver to the algorithm behind the decision. Heading into 2026, insurers are weighing both sides: better safety data and risk reduction, alongside emerging concerns about data security, privacy, and AI-related liability.

What To Look For in Trucking Insurance Programs

When selecting a trucking insurance program, brokers and agents should prioritize:
  • Underwriting teams with transportation-specific expertise and comfort with FMCSA-regulated operations
  • Coverage breadth, including liability, physical damage, cargo, hired and non-owned, bobtail/non-trucking, and trailer interchange
  • Willingness to underwrite higher-risk or challenged fleets (e.g., less-experienced drivers, sub-par safety scores), especially when supported by data and monitoring
  • Integration of telematics, forward-facing cameras, and electronic logging device (ELD) data
  • Strong risk-control service and driver-safety support, enabling fleets to improve metrics and control costs
  • Efficient digital submission/quote workflows (ACORDs, loss runs, risk scoring) to streamline program access
  • Flexibility for owner-operators, small fleets, and large national operations, as well as the ability to place cargo-only and logistics exposures
Programs aligned with these attributes will be well-positioned in a hardening market and evolving risk environment.

Top Trucking Insurance Programs To Consider

Below are six trucking and transportation programs featured on ProgramBusiness.com, listed alphabetically.

Amwins Underwriting — Transportation

Amwins Underwriting offers one of the broadest transportation portfolios on ProgramBusiness, backed by underwriters who specialize in fast-moving, complex trucking and commercial auto risks. The program spans a wide range of segments — from business auto and local-to-long-haul trucking to niche classes like dump trucks, intermodal transportation, environmental transport, cannabis cargo, and towing. The breadth of solutions includes cargo and physical damage options, freight broker liability, paratransit, small/mid-fleet trucking, public auto, marine cargo, workers’ compensation for trucking, and several specialty offerings tailored to manufacturers and service providers in the trucking ecosystem. Many programs also incorporate risk- and claims-management support to help keep insureds “on the road and their businesses running smoothly.” Program listing: Amwins Underwriting — Transportation

IGP Specialty — Transportation

IGP Specialty’s transportation division, Strategic Insurance Underwriters (SIU), offers competitive insurance solutions for for-hire trucking firms across a broad footprint, with programs available in more than a dozen states. SIU’s underwriters emphasize their understanding of current market pressures — including tighter underwriting, rising insurance costs, more roadway accidents from congestion and distracted driving, and challenges tied to the limited pool of experienced drivers. The program includes primary liability across all radius classifications, physical damage for fleet and non-fleet operations, cargo liability with limits up to $250,000, non-trucking liability for permanently leased owner-operators, and occupational accident coverage for motor carriers with independent contractors. Deductible options, trailer interchange, MCS-90, UM/UIM, MedPay/PIP, master policy structures (where eligible), and reefer breakdown coverage are available depending on the state. Program listing: IGP Specialty — Transportation

Novacore — True Transport Insure (Owner-Operator Insurance for the Trucking Industry)

True Transport Insure (TTI) from Novacore provides specialty transportation solutions built around owner-operators and independent contractors. The program includes physical damage, non-trucking liability, occupational accident with contract liability, workers’ compensation, major medical options, and captive structures.  TTI notes that it does not offer primary auto liability for truckers. Additional offerings include occupational accident for a range of independent contractor classes, as well as a Moving & Storage Package that combines auto, crime, inland marine, general liability, and property with umbrella options. TTI also provides coverage for freight brokers and forwarders — including contingent auto, contingent cargo, professional liability, general liability, and excess contingent auto — along with motor truck cargo for fleets of all sizes in all 50 states. With more than 20 years in the owner-operator space, the team emphasizes value-added consulting, broad market access, and proprietary technology designed to streamline agent workflows. Program listing: Novacore — True Transport Insure

Maritime Program Group — Motor Truck Cargo Insurance From One80 Intermediaries

Maritime Program Group offers an exclusive Motor Truck Cargo program from One80 Intermediaries. Backed by in-house underwriting and A-rated carriers, the program is designed to support trucking risks, ranging from small owner-operators to large fleets. With more than 20 years of MTC underwriting experience, the program provides solutions for long- and short-haul operations, a wide range of commodities, refrigeration breakdown, contingent cargo, furniture movers, freight forwarders, car and boat haulers, riggers liability, new ventures, trip-transit, and warehouse legal liability. Program features include non-scheduled policies, terminal coverage, no radius limitations, and loading/unloading coverage. MPG emphasizes direct access to experienced underwriters, nationwide availability, proactive service, and industry-specific loss-prevention tools. Policies and endorsements are issued directly by MPG, with competitive commission structures and A-rated carrier partnerships. Program listing: Maritime Program Group — Motor Truck Cargo Insurance From One80 Intermediaries

RPS Signature Programs — Fleet Trucking

Launched in 2024, the RPS Fleet Trucking program is an exclusive solution built for long-haul fleets with 15 or more power units. The program offers auto liability, auto physical damage, motor truck cargo, and truckers’ general liability across 20 states. Designed for harder-to-place risks, it targets fleets with challenging loss histories or safety scores that are prepared to engage in RPS’s risk-control and data-sharing services. A defining feature of the program is its requirement that all power units use forward-facing cameras and share ELD data. These inputs support the underwriting process and help maintain loss ratio and program viability. Appetite includes fleets in business for four or more years, operating 90% or more owned units, with 15 to 150 power units and drivers aged 23 and above with at least two years of CDL experience. Eligible operations include agricultural hauling, dry van, flatbed, refrigerated, auto/boat hauling, and oversize/overweight hauling. Program listing: RPS Signature Programs — Fleet Trucking

RPS Signature Programs — Transportation eComm

RPS Transportation eComm is designed to simplify placement for smaller trucking accounts, giving agents a streamlined way to quote, bind, and issue coverage in minutes. The program is positioned as a solution for agencies that handle transportation business but want a faster, more accessible workflow for lower-complexity risks. Through the eComm platform, truckers can access general liability, motor truck cargo, and auto physical damage coverage. The program aims to “flatten the learning curve” for producers who need support with smaller transportation accounts, while still offering the speed, efficiency, and ease of use expected of a dedicated small-business quoting system. Program listing: RPS Signature Programs — Transportation eComm

Searching for Trucking & Transportation Insurance Programs?

Given the complexity of transportation and trucking insurance markets, brokers and agents will benefit from accessing a marketplace like ProgramBusiness. On ProgramBusiness, you can explore specialized MGAs and carriers that have built transportation-specific underwriting, claims, risk-control, and technology capabilities.  If you manage a program, setting up a storefront via ProgramBusiness helps you get discovered by thousands of agents and brokers actively searching for trucking and transportation solutions. Reach out today to request a demo or set up your storefront.

FAQ About Trucking Insurance Programs

What does trucking insurance cover? 

It covers liability for bodily injury and property damage arising from the operation of trucks and trailers, physical damage to trucks and trailers, motor truck cargo coverage for the goods being hauled, non-trucking liability (bobtail), hired and non-owned auto, trailer interchange exposures, and specialized endorsements tailored to logistics operations.

What factors contribute to rising trucking insurance premiums? 

The cost reflects elevated exposure: large loss potential via nuclear verdicts, repair and replacement costs on modern trucks, increased frequency of accidents tied to driver turnover or inexperienced drivers, supply-chain inflation, and wide variation in fleet safety performance metrics.

How do trucking companies reduce insurance costs? 

By maintaining strong safety performance, adopting advanced safety technologies, sharing fleet performance data with insurers, and building strong underwriting relationships with specialist programs.

What types of trucking businesses need trucking insurance solutions? 

For-hire trucking fleets (local, regional, long-haul), owner-operators, logistics carriers, freight brokers with trucking exposures, cargo carriers, fleets with specialized goods (hazardous, high-value), last-mile operations, and fleets that operate across state lines and require regulatory compliance.

How do telematics affect trucking insurance? 

Telematics, driver-camera systems, and ELD data are increasingly integrated into underwriting, loss prevention, and premium determination. Programs that mandate or reward data sharing can typically price risks more competitively, while fleets with weak metrics may face higher costs.

About Program Business

ProgramBusiness is a leading insuretech marketplace connecting agents, brokers, MGAs, and carriers. Our platform helps insurance professionals list their programs, receive verified feedback, and be discovered by buyers searching the most active program classes — including today’s highly competitive transportation and trucking insurance markets. Larry Neilson With 35 years in the Property/Casualty insurance industry under his belt, Larry has helped insurance agents, carriers, MGAs/MGUs, wholesalers, program administrators, and vendors capitalize on the latest in sales and marketing, data development, Internet marketing, SEO, email marketing, and social media distribution.
Read More

November 5, 2025

Top Trending Insurance Markets of November 2025, Part 1: Public Entity Insurance

As part of ProgramBusiness.com’s ongoing “Top Trending Insurance Markets” series, this month’s spotlight turns to one of the most consistently searched and competitively placed segments on the platform: public entity insurance markets. With search data showing steady traffic for programs covering municipalities, school districts, and special service districts, brokers are clearly seeking tailored public entity insurance solutions for their clients. The continued surge in public-sector exposures, combined with increased infrastructure funding and litigation risks, has made this a market in constant evolution — and one worth watching closely. Related article: Top 5 Trending Insurance Markets of October 2025, Part 5: Product Recall Insurance

What Is Public Entity Insurance? An Overview

Public entity insurance provides specialized coverage for government and quasi-government organizations — from cities, towns, and school districts to utilities, law enforcement agencies, and transit systems. These entities operate under high public scrutiny, often managing large-scale risks that private businesses rarely encounter. Because no two public entities are alike, these policies are designed to address a complex range of exposures, including:
  • Liability: General, public officials, and employment practices liabilities for actions taken by employees and leadership
  • Property: Coverage for public buildings, schools, or utilities exposed to natural disasters and vandalism
  • Automobile: Fleet coverage for police, public works, and transportation departments
  • Cyber and data breaches: Protection against the growing threat of ransomware and data theft targeting municipalities
Each program integrates risk control, claims management, and coverage extensions to reflect the heightened accountability and budgetary constraints that public entities face.

Market Trends Driving Demand for Public Entity Insurance in 2025

Several factors are shaping public entity insurance markets in 2025, prompting agents and managing general agents (MGAs) to reevaluate their coverage options and partnerships. Together, these forces underscore why public entity programs remain highly active and frequently searched on ProgramBusiness.com.

Infrastructure Investment and Expansion

The continued rollout of infrastructure funding at the federal, state, and local levels has led to increased project activity across municipalities. With new construction, equipment purchases, and public-private partnerships, insurance needs are expanding accordingly.

Rising Claim Severity and Litigation Pressure

Carriers are adjusting pricing and reinsurance strategies to manage the volatility of nuclear verdicts (jury awards over $10 million) and “mega” nuclear verdicts (those over $100 million).  Such cases have become more common across both public and private sectors. In one case, a jury awarded $17.4 million to a City of Los Angeles wastewater collection supervisor. In another, Jane Doe v. County of Los Angeles, a jury issued a $61 million wrongful death verdict, with $59.7 million attributed to non-economic damages.

Cyber Risk Escalation

Local governments remain a top target for cyberattacks, with ransomware incidents disrupting essential services. Many programs now include cyber liability or incident response resources as standard elements of coverage.

Climate and Environmental Exposures

Severe storms, flooding, and wildfires are testing the resilience of municipal property portfolios. According to a recent Carnegie Endowment analysis, the burden of responding to climate-related disasters increasingly falls on local governments. These entities already shoulder the majority of the nation’s infrastructure spending and essential public services — from waste management and policing to education and emergency response.  As extreme weather events grow in frequency and cost, local governments face rising financial exposure — not only from physical damage but also from prolonged service disruptions and liability claims tied to public safety or environmental contamination. This mounting pressure is pushing municipalities to seek comprehensive insurance programs that integrate catastrophe, pollution, and business interruption coverage within broader public entity risk strategies.

Evolving Risk-Pooling Models

Some municipalities continue to use shared risk pools or captives. Others seek standalone coverage with specialized MGAs for greater flexibility and service responsiveness.

What To Look For in Public Entity Insurance Programs

For brokers and agents, selecting the right public entity program requires balancing comprehensive protection with expert underwriting and claims support. Leading programs tend to share the following characteristics:
  • Specialized underwriting expertise: A dedicated public risk team familiar with municipal exposures, including law enforcement and employment practices
  • Flexible deductibles and limits: Scalable options that accommodate varying population sizes and budgets
  • Expanded liability coverage: Extensions for law enforcement, emergency dispatchers, and public officials’ liability
  • Risk-management support: Ongoing education, safety resources, and incident-prevention guidance
  • Responsive claims service: Fast, knowledgeable claims handling for politically sensitive or high-profile losses

Top Public Entity Insurance Programs To Consider

For program managers and MGAs specializing in municipal or governmental risks, now is a prime time to gain visibility on ProgramBusiness before the market becomes more saturated. Below are two standout public entity insurance programs currently featured on the platform. Each offers specialized coverage and underwriting expertise designed to meet the complex needs of local governments and public organizations.

RPS Signature Programs: Large Public Entity (Above 75,000 Population)

With more than 40 years of experience, RPS Signature Programs has developed exclusive facilities with A-rated carriers to serve municipalities, schools, and state entities. Their Large Public Entity program addresses a wide range of exposures, including civil rights claims, police misconduct, employment practices, terrorism, and cyber threats. The program offers:
  • Property, general liability, auto liability, physical damage, and public officials liability
  • Primary and excess liability up to $10 million in total limits
  • Fast in-house underwriting turnaround to support new business and renewals
RPS’s team emphasizes customized risk-management resources, providing clients with education on emerging threats such as ransomware, workplace violence, and environmental hazards. Their long-standing relationships with top carriers help maintain competitive pricing for large municipalities with populations over 75,000. Program listing: RPS Signature Programs: Large Public Entity (Above 75,000 Population)

Wright Specialty Insurance: Municipalities Insurance Program

Wright Specialty Insurance provides nationwide property and casualty packages tailored for city and county governments, emergency response services, police departments, and a range of public service districts. Available coverages include:
  • Property, inland marine, general liability, crime, auto, and umbrella
  • Professional liability options, such as law enforcement, employment practices, and emergency dispatchers liability
  • Support for a wide range of entities, from fire protection districts to park boards and utility services
With underwriting flexibility and national availability (excluding Alaska, Hawaii, New York, and Oregon), Wright Specialty’s Municipalities Program delivers broad coverage options suited to both large and mid-sized jurisdictions. Program listing: Wright Specialty Insurance: Municipalities Insurance Program

Searching for Public Entity Insurance Solutions?

As municipal exposures grow more complex, brokers are turning to marketplaces that make it easier to connect with trusted program partners. Public entity programs on ProgramBusiness.com offer access to experienced MGAs and carriers that understand the intricacies of public risk — from managing law enforcement claims to addressing cyber resilience and environmental compliance. Agents can explore current public entity insurance solutions, while program managers can create a storefront to increase program visibility on the platform. Contact ProgramBusiness today to learn how you can expand your market distribution and tap into our network of over 80,000 agents looking for new business.

FAQ About Public Entity Risk Insurance Programs

What is covered under public entity insurance?

Coverage may include property, general liability, auto liability, law enforcement, public officials, employment practices, and cyber risk, depending on the entity’s operations.

Who needs public entity insurance?

Cities, towns, school districts, utilities, and other public service entities need coverage to manage risk from lawsuits, property damage, and operational disruptions.

What are examples of public entities?

Examples include county governments, fire and police departments, water and sewer districts, and community development boards.

How do public entities manage risk?

Most rely on specialized insurance programs or risk pools that provide both coverage and loss-control support, helping reduce claims through training and proactive prevention.

What are the challenges in insuring public entities?

Challenges include managing high-severity claims, political and reputational risks, limited budgets, and increasing exposure to cyber and environmental threats.

About Program Business

ProgramBusiness is a leading insuretech marketplace connecting agents, brokers, MGAs, and carriers. We enable insurance professionals to list their programs, receive verified feedback from users, and be discovered by buyers across the industry. Jeff Neilson Co-founder of Neilson Marketing Services and ProgramBusiness.com, Jeff has 30 years of experience in the insurance industry putting his expertise to work for P/C agencies, MGAs/MGUs, wholesalers, E&S brokers, and program administrators nationwide.
Read More

October 31, 2025

Top 5 Trending Insurance Markets of October 2025, Part 5: Product Recall Insurance

Product recalls have become a defining risk of modern manufacturing and distribution. From contaminated food products to defective auto components, recall events can cost millions in direct expenses, lost revenue, and brand damage. As companies face mounting regulatory pressure and increasingly complex global supply chains, demand for product recall insurance continues to climb on ProgramBusiness.com. This coverage is designed to protect manufacturers, distributors, and retailers from the financial and operational fallout of withdrawing unsafe or contaminated products from the market — a crisis that can unfold in hours and ripple across entire industries. For more insights on trending markets, see parts 1 through 4 in this series, featuring builders risk, auto dealers, transportation, and habitational insurance programs.

What Is Product Recall Insurance?

Product recall insurance covers the costs associated with removing defective or contaminated products from circulation. While product liability insurance addresses third-party bodily injury or property damage, recall coverage focuses on the recall process itself — the logistics, communication, and recovery costs tied to getting the product off shelves and restoring public trust. Typical coverages include:
  • Notification, shipping, and disposal costs
  • Replacement or repair of affected goods
  • Business interruption and loss of profits
  • Public relations and crisis management support
  • Consultant fees and recall execution services
  • Government-mandated recall expenses
Modern recall programs often integrate 24/7 crisis response teams and brand rehabilitation services, giving policyholders immediate access to specialists who can coordinate a recall and minimize reputational damage.

What To Look For in Product Recall Insurance Programs

When evaluating recall programs, brokers should prioritize product recall insurance programs that offer:
  • Industry specialization in food, manufacturing, aviation, or life sciences
  • Crisis management partners available on call
  • Coverage for both voluntary and government-mandated recalls
  • Integration with product liability coverage for seamless protection
  • Global capabilities to handle international supply chain exposures
  • Dedicated underwriting for contamination and defect risk
ProgramBusiness.com enables brokers to compare recall and contamination markets, assess appetite, and connect directly with underwriters offering specialized coverage.

Top Product Recall Insurance Programs To Consider

Brokers are increasingly searching for recall markets that can respond swiftly to emerging contamination, defect, or component-failure incidents. The following programs on ProgramBusiness.com represent key options available to brokers managing high-exposure manufacturing and product risks.

DUAL North America — Crisis Management (Product Recall & Product Contamination)

Whether accidental or intentional, product contamination can devastate a company’s finances and reputation. DUAL North America’s Contaminated Products Insurance, underwritten by the DUAL Crisis Management team, is designed to help manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, importers, and distributors of food and beverage and other topical or ingestible products manage these events. Key features include:
  • Worldwide coverage for contaminated product incidents
  • 24/7 crisis support through DUAL-retained consultant Crisis24, accessible via a dedicated response hotline
  • Pre-incident consulting to strengthen contamination prevention and recall readiness
  • Primary and excess capacity for flexible risk transfer solutions
  • Dedicated claims management backed by strong carrier partnerships
  • Minimum self-insured retention (SIR) of $5,000
DUAL’s program offers a full-service crisis management solution — from pre-loss preparation to real-time response — enabling insureds to minimize disruption and protect brand integrity. Program listing: Dual North America — Crisis Management (Product Recall & Product Contamination)

USG Insurance Services — Aviation Program

The Aviation Program from USG Insurance Services provides specialized protection for aviation businesses and manufacturers facing complex liability and recall exposures. Designed for both operational and manufacturing risks, the program covers everything from pleasure aircraft to aerospace products. Targeted classes include:
  • Pleasure and business aircraft
  • Flight schools and charter operations
  • Helicopters and fixed base operations
  • Airport and heliport liability
  • Aviation products and manufacturers
  • Space satellites and aerial applications
Coverages include:
  • Product recall expense
  • Products and completed operations liability
  • Aviation product liability
  • Environmental and pollution liability
  • Aircraft hull and liability (individual and corporate-owned)
  • Airport liability and workers’ compensation
Program features:
  • “A”-rated admitted paper
  • Worldwide coverage
  • Binding authority for quick access to markets
USG’s aviation offering gives brokers access to a specialized market with global reach. It supports manufacturers and operators where even minor product defects can lead to large-scale recall or grounding events. Program listing: USG Insurance Services — Aviation Program

USG Insurance Services — Products Liability Insurance

USG Insurance Services also offers a Products Liability Insurance Program tailored for manufacturers, distributors, and importers across a wide range of industries. The program provides protection for third-party injury and property damage caused by defective products, along with coverage for product recall expenses and related crisis costs. Targeted classes include:
  • Product recall
  • Discontinued operations
  • Domestic and foreign flow
  • Reverse flow
  • Sporting gear and helmets
  • Auto parts and chemicals
  • Toys, food, pharmaceuticals, and medical products
Key features:
  • Coverage for product recall expense
  • Access to admitted and non-admitted markets nationwide
  • Binding authority for efficient placement
  • Capacity for both U.S. and international exposures
Built for versatility, USG’s program helps brokers place complex manufacturing, consumer goods, and industrial accounts that demand robust product liability and recall protection. Program listing: USG Insurance Services — Products Liability Insurance

Related Markets To Watch

Beyond recall programs, several related markets offer coverage extensions or appetite for contamination and crisis exposures. Brokers on ProgramBusiness.com can explore additional opportunities through programs targeting manufacturing, food processing, or life sciences — sectors most frequently impacted by recall incidents. These complementary programs often include sublimits or endorsements for recall expenses, contingent business interruption, and crisis communication costs.

Market Trends Driving Product Recall Insurance in 2025

The scale of U.S. product recalls remains historically high, underscoring the growing need for recall and contamination coverage. According to Sedgwick Brand Protection’s 2025 U.S. State of the Nation Recall Index, more than 3,200 recall events were recorded in 2024 for the second consecutive year — marking the second-highest annual total in six years.  While the number of defective units recalled fell to 680.9 million, the overall frequency of recall incidents continues to keep pressure on manufacturers, distributors, and insurers alike. This sustained activity highlights how recall exposures are evolving across industries and why brokers are seeking programs that combine rapid crisis response with strong financial protection.

Increased Regulatory Oversight

Federal agencies continue to intensify recall monitoring and enforcement, contributing to a persistently high volume of product withdrawals. The Food and Drug Administration now tracks thousands of recalls each year, spanning categories ranging from mislabeled food allergens to contaminated pharmaceuticals. Recent examples include: 
  • Recalls of frozen shrimp linked to cesium-137 contamination
  • Cucumbers and dairy products tied to salmonella and listeria outbreaks
  • Frozen pasta meals pulled due to foodborne pathogens
This broader oversight under regulations such as the Food Safety Modernization Act and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration laws has increased expectations for transparency and traceability. Companies must now disclose risks faster, coordinate public notifications, and cooperate with investigations. Overall, there’s a heightened need for recall insurance programs that pair financial protection with experienced crisis management and communication support.

Global Supply Chain Interdependence

Modern product manufacturing depends on complex global supply chains where a single defective part or contaminated ingredient can ripple across multiple brands and countries. The largest recalls in recent decades illustrate this fragility. The 2009 Peanut Corporation of America salmonella outbreak, for example, affected more than 700 people and led to recalls of hundreds of products from major brands like Smucker’s and Peter Pan. Similarly, the Takata airbag crisis triggered nearly 100 million recalls worldwide, spanning vehicles from more than a dozen automakers. These events reveal how interconnected suppliers, contract manufacturers, and distributors are — and how a localized problem can quickly become a global crisis. For brokers, that means recall insurance must account for exposures well beyond a single manufacturer. Programs offering international jurisdiction, supplier-extension coverage, and coordinated crisis response are increasingly critical to protecting clients whose products move through multi-tiered production networks.

Technological Failures

Battery-related recalls are surging as lithium-ion technology becomes common in everyday products. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported more than 150 fires and thermal incidents tied to “universal” chargers for e-bikes and scooters in early 2024, with some manufacturers refusing to issue recalls. Faulty chargers, poor assembly, and design flaws that cause batteries to overheat have also led to recalls across electronics, power tools, and medical devices. As battery use expands, even small defects can lead to major losses — making specialized recall coverage essential for manufacturers in micromobility and electronics sectors.

Brand and Reputational Risk

In today’s media environment, a single recall can go viral within hours. Companies face heightened public scrutiny as social media amplifies negative publicity, sometimes long before a recall is officially announced. With trust in many institutions declining, businesses can’t afford the reputational risk that comes with a major recall. Product recall insurance with built-in crisis communication and public relations response has become indispensable. Many modern programs provide 24/7 access to brand rehabilitation experts who help craft messaging, coordinate media response, and restore consumer confidence — often making the difference between short-term disruption and long-term damage.

Searching for Product Recall Insurance Solutions?

Product recall insurance remains one of the most vital specialty lines for manufacturers and distributors seeking to protect their brands, customers, and bottom lines. Brokers can use ProgramBusiness.com to identify recall programs, compare appetites, and connect directly with experienced underwriters who understand the urgency of these exposures. Contact us to set up your storefront on ProgramBusiness.com.

FAQ About Product Recall Insurance Programs

What does product recall insurance cover?

It covers the costs of withdrawing defective or contaminated products from the market, including notification, shipping, disposal, and crisis management expenses.

Who needs product recall insurance?

Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers across food, consumer goods, automotive, aviation, and life sciences industries need it to protect against costly recall events.

How is product recall insurance different from product liability insurance?

Product liability covers third-party injury or damage, while recall insurance covers the cost of removing unsafe or defective products from the marketplace.

How much does product recall insurance cost?

Premiums depend on industry, product type, production volume, and recall history. High-risk industries such as food and automotive may face higher rates.

What industries face the highest recall risk?

Food and beverage, automotive, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods — sectors with complex supply chains and tight regulatory oversight.

About ProgramBusiness

ProgramBusiness is a leading insuretech marketplace connecting agents, brokers, MGAs, and carriers. We enable professionals to list their specialty programs, receive verified feedback, and be discovered by motivated buyers across the industry. Larry Neilson With 35 years in the Property/Casualty insurance industry under his belt, Larry has helped insurance agents, carriers, MGAs/MGUs, wholesalers, program administrators, and vendors capitalize on the latest in sales and marketing, data development, Internet marketing, SEO, email marketing, and social media distribution.
Read More

October 29, 2025

Top 5 Trending Insurance Markets of October 2025, Part 4: Habitational Insurance

Following our exploration of transportation programs in Part 3, we now turn to another high-traffic sector on ProgramBusiness.com: habitational insurance. Brokers continue to search for programs that address aging property stock, rising replacement costs, and more frequent weather-related claims. Meanwhile, managing general agents (MGAs) use the platform to gain visibility among those looking to place risks. From multifamily housing and assisted living facilities to large real estate portfolios, the demand for specialized habitational coverage reflects an industry adapting to complex property exposures and growing capacity needs. Here’s an overview of what habitational insurance programs typically include — along with several programs for brokers to explore as they help their clients navigate today’s market conditions. Related articles: 

What Is Habitational Insurance?

Habitational insurance provides property and liability protection for buildings where people live or rent, such as apartments, condominiums, student housing, and senior living facilities. It’s a vital safeguard for owners, investors, and property managers whose assets are vulnerable to fire, storm, or tenant-related losses. Typical coverages include:
  • Property insurance (buildings, contents, loss of rent)
  • General liability and premises liability
  • Umbrella and excess liability
  • Equipment breakdown
  • Ordinance or law and loss of income
  • Flood, earthquake, and wind endorsements
  • Optional crime, cyber, and EPLI protection
As habitational portfolios expand across states and risk zones, brokers increasingly seek tailored habitational programs. Key factors include broad capacity, multi-state coverage, and flexible underwriting that accounts for property age, occupancy, and renovation status.

What To Look For in Habitational Insurance Providers

When evaluating programs, brokers and MGAs should consider:
  • Underwriting expertise in multifamily and mixed-use risks
  • Admitted and non-admitted flexibility to address challenging properties
  • Capacity for high-value or CAT-exposed accounts
  • Comprehensive coverage forms, combining property and liability
  • Responsive claims handling and risk control for fire, maintenance, and tenant exposures
  • Digital quoting and submission options for speed and scalability
ProgramBusiness enables brokers to compare programs side by side and connect directly with markets that meet their clients’ unique habitational insurance needs.

Top Habitational Insurance Programs To Consider

The following programs represent a cross-section of leading solutions available through the marketplace — each designed to address today’s complex property, liability, and catastrophe exposures for multifamily, condo, and commercial real estate portfolios.

Arrowhead General Insurance Agency — Small Business Commercial Earthquake

Arrowhead’s Small Business Commercial Earthquake Program offers tailored protection for smaller commercial and habitational properties in California exposed to earthquake and flood risk. The program covers homeowners associations (HOAs), apartment buildings, and multi-unit condos (four-unit minimum), with coverage limits up to $20 million for habitational occupancies. Key highlights include:
  • Replacement cost valuation with actual loss sustained for business income
  • Deductible options from 5% to 25% per unit
  • Ordinance and law coverage (A full; B and C sub-limited to 10%)
  • Business income coverage up to 40% of total insured value
  • Eligibility for buildings meeting updated construction standards
Backed by A+ XV rated carriers, Arrowhead combines disciplined underwriting with efficient quoting, providing habitational owners essential protection in seismic zones. Program Listing: Arrowhead Small Business Commercial Earthquake

eMaxx Assurance Group — Property Program

The Property Program from eMaxx Assurance Group supports a wide range of commercial and habitational exposures, including excess habitational, apartments, assisted living facilities, condos, and real estate schedules. Available nationwide, this program offers customized solutions for portfolios ranging from single-building placements to large multi-property accounts. eMaxx’s underwriting flexibility and access to multiple markets enable brokers to secure coverage for higher-value properties, vacant buildings, and coastal or CAT-exposed assets that might otherwise be difficult to place. Program listing: eMaxx — Property

HabPro Insurance From Novacore — Commercial Real Estate Insurance

HabPro Insurance, a best-in-class program from Novacore, is a one-stop commercial real estate insurance provider specializing in package and mono-line property for apartments and condominiums. HabPro delivers ground-up coverage solutions for small and middle-market habitational risks. Appetite highlights include:
  • Class A & B risks, built 1985 or newer
  • Condos, apartments, subsidized and LIHTC developments (up to 15%)
  • Mixed-use buildings (up to 33% mercantile)
  • Student housing and 55+ independent living communities
  • Nationwide availability (excluding AK, HI, FL, LA, NYC’s five boroughs, and Long Island)
Program features:
  • Single-location limits up to $50 million
  • Robust property enhancement endorsement
  • Business income, equipment breakdown, and ordinance & law (A–D)
  • A+ rated carrier backing with exclusive policy forms
  • Dedicated underwriting expertise and superior service
HabPro stands out for its competitive coverage options and creative solutions for traditional and nontraditional habitational accounts. Program listing: HabPro Insurance — Commercial Real Estate Insurance 

Jimcor Agencies — Real Estate Program

Jimcor Agencies’ Real Estate Program offers broad solutions for hard-to-place property risks across all occupancy types and sizes, with access to over 30 markets. Targeted classes include:
  • Apartments, condos, and dwellings
  • Student and senior housing
  • Subsidized/Section 8 properties
  • Associations, rentals, and vacant land or buildings
  • Mixed-use, hospitality, and high-value coastal properties
Key coverages:
  • Primary and excess property
  • Builders risk, inland marine, and DIC
  • Casualty and professional lines (E&O, D&O, EPLI, cyber)
  • Environmental and pollution, including mold
  • Umbrella and workers’ compensation
Jimcor provides occurrence or claims-made forms, admitted and non-admitted options, and virtually unlimited capacity for accounts under renovation, with prior claims, or requiring specialized terms. Program listing: Jimcor Agencies — Real Estate Program

USG Insurance Services — Habitational & Casualty Excess Programs

USG Insurance Services offers two integrated programs that help brokers manage both primary and excess layers of habitational risks nationwide.

USG Habitational Insurance

This program covers a diverse mix of properties, including apartments, condos, student housing, senior living, HUD and subsidized housing, co-ops, and short-term rentals. Coverage options include property, casualty, directors and officers, errors and omissions, environmental/pollution (including mold), builders risk, and umbrella. Program listing: USG Insurance Services — Habitational Insurance

USG Casualty Excess Program

Built for scalability, this program provides virtually unlimited capacity and access to over 260 A-rated admitted and non-admitted carriers. It’s ideal for multi-state or higher-limit portfolios, offering broad excess liability for habitational, contractor, hospitality, and healthcare classes. Together, USG’s programs provide brokers with the flexibility to efficiently place both standard and complex residential accounts through a single platform. Program listing: USG Insurance Services — Casualty & Excess Insurance

Market Trends Driving Habitational Insurance in 2025

Several developments are shaping today’s habitational insurance market. These trends underscore the need for programs that combine underwriting strength, national reach, and creative solutions for complex property exposures.

Rising Property Valuations

Inflation and materials shortages continue to drive reconstruction costs, requiring updated replacement cost valuations. Inflation and supply chain disruptions continue to push reconstruction costs higher. Persistent shortages in key building materials — including concrete, roofing, and electrical components — have driven price spikes and project delays across the U.S. construction sector, according to Construction Dive These pressures make it essential for property owners and insurers to keep replacement cost valuations current. Outdated figures can leave habitational properties underinsured when major losses occur.

Increased Catastrophe Losses

Severe weather, hail, and wildfire events are prompting insurers to reprice and restrict capacity in high-risk zones.  Global insured losses from natural catastrophes totaled $80 billion in the first half of 2025, the second-costliest start to a year on record.

Aging Building Stock

Older roofs and outdated infrastructure are driving up both the frequency and severity of claims. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), roof-related claims have surged to record highs across the United States, straining insurers already managing inflation and reinsurance costs.  Many habitational properties built decades ago now face increased scrutiny for roof age, materials, and maintenance, as underwriters work to curb losses tied to weather damage and fraudulent or inflated claims.

Higher Tenant Liability Exposures

The growth of short-term rentals is reshaping risk profiles for multifamily and mixed-use properties. Platforms like Airbnb can blur the line between residential and commercial use, exposing property owners to coverage gaps and liability issues that standard policies may not address.  Frequent guest turnover increases wear and tear, noise complaints, and potential property damage. Meanwhile, unvetted occupants elevate the risk of accidents or security incidents.  Insurers are responding by tightening underwriting guidelines, requiring disclosure of short-term rental activity, and in some cases, excluding coverage for unapproved or undisclosed rentals. For brokers, it’s becoming essential to verify how clients use their properties and ensure habitational programs include clear language for short-term or transient occupancies.

Portfolio-Based Underwriting

Insurers are moving toward evaluating entire property portfolios rather than single buildings. This shift allows them to use advanced analytics to identify resilient risks and price them more accurately — particularly for wildfire-exposed properties in the western United States.  As Lockton Re explains, portfolios that incorporate detailed secondary data points such as roof type, defensible space, and fire-mitigation practices can reduce modeled wildfire losses by more than 20%. These refined analytics enable insurers and reinsurers to offer more consistent pricing, enhance capacity, and strengthen portfolio resiliency in a changing climate.

Searching for Habitational Insurance Solutions?

Habitational insurance remains one of the most in-demand categories on ProgramBusiness.com. Whether you’re seeking primary property, excess capacity, or catastrophe coverage, the programs above represent a diverse range of solutions. Explore these listings, connect with underwriters directly through the ProgramBusiness marketplace, and increase your program’s visibility by setting up a storefront today.

FAQ About Habitational Insurance Programs

What does habitational insurance cover?

It typically covers property, liability, and loss of income for apartments, condos, and other residential buildings, along with optional endorsements for equipment breakdown, flood, or earthquake.

Who needs habitational insurance?

Property owners, landlords, real estate investors, and property managers who lease or rent units need this coverage to protect their assets and income.

What is considered a habitational property?

Any residential building where people live or rent — apartments, condos, student housing, senior living facilities, or mixed-use developments with residential occupancy.

How much does habitational insurance cost?

Pricing depends on building age, location, construction type, occupancy, loss history, and desired coverage limits. CAT-exposed or older properties typically command higher premiums.

What does habitational insurance not cover?

Most policies exclude wear and tear, intentional damage, and maintenance-related issues. Some carriers may also limit coverage for unoccupied or poorly maintained properties.

About ProgramBusiness

ProgramBusiness is a leading insuretech marketplace connecting agents, brokers, MGAs and carriers. We enable professionals to list their specialty programs, receive verified feedback, and be discovered by motivated buyers across the industry. Jeff Neilson Co-founder of Neilson Marketing Services and ProgramBusiness.com, Jeff has 30 years of experience in the insurance industry putting his expertise to work for P/C agencies, MGAs/MGUs, wholesalers, E&S brokers, and program administrators nationwide.
Read More

October 27, 2025

Top 5 Trending Insurance Markets of October 2025, Part 3: Transportation Insurance

Following our previous installments in this series, we now turn our attention to another popular program category this month: transportation insurance. Search data from ProgramBusiness shows that coverage for trucking, logistics, and delivery operations is currently driving elevated interest among brokers, agents, managing general agents (MGAs), and carriers alike.  In an environment of evolving regulatory burdens, driver shortages, cargo-theft threats, and digital disruption, transportation insurance is increasingly a high‐priority specialization. This article outlines the key drivers of demand and highlights five standout programs listed on ProgramBusiness that deliver differentiated underwriting, service, and market access for transportation risks. Related articles: 

What Is Transportation Insurance? An Overview

Transportation insurance refers to the suite of property, casualty, and specialty coverages designed for businesses whose core activity involves moving goods and/or people. Typical insureds include for‐hire trucking firms, owner-operators, freight brokers, third-party logistics providers (3PLs), parcel/last-mile delivery services, and passenger transit fleets.  Transportation insurance may cover:
  • Commercial auto liability and physical damage for trucks, trailers, and cargo haulers
  • Motor truck cargo or logistics­
  • Liability to address loss/damage to freight in transit or storage
  • General liability and errors & omissions relevant to logistics intermediaries
  • Occupational accident or workers’ compensation for drivers/crew
  • Umbrella/excess layers and environmental/pollution liability arising from transit operations
Many modern programs also integrate telematics, dash-cam analytics, digital claims interfaces and fleet‐risk-control services, helping carriers and insureds alike mitigate exposure and control cost drift.

What To Look For in Transportation Insurance Companies

When evaluating transportation insurance providers and programs, brokers and MGAs should focus on the following:
  • Specialization in transportation and logistics risks (versus generalist auto)
  • Underwriting flexibility to accommodate diverse fleet sizes, ownership models, and specialty operations
  • Demonstrated claims expertise in trucking, cargo losses, and transit exposures
  • Robust loss-control infrastructure (telematics, driver safety programs, cargo tracking)
  • Carrier strength and capacity, especially when handling large fleets or high-exposure accounts
  • Digital access for quoting, binding and certificates of insurance
ProgramBusiness enables you to compare transportation insurance companies side by side, review their appetite and features, and connect directly through the marketplace.

Top Transportation Insurance Programs To Consider

Below are five programs listed on ProgramBusiness that specialize in transportation risks. Each offers distinct strengths tailored for brokers, MGAs, and agents seeking to place or build transportation business.

Amwins Underwriting — Transportation

Amwins Underwriting offers one of the industry’s broadest portfolios of transportation-specific insurance solutions, helping brokers keep their clients’ fleets on the road and their operations protected. Its dedicated underwriting teams specialize in short- and long-haul trucking, cargo and physical damage, dump trucks, environmental and intermodal transport, and other commercial auto classes — including public auto, paratransit, and towing operations. Through access to more than 250 carrier partners, Amwins provides deep market capacity and flexible options for complex or multi-modal risks. From freight brokers to non-emergency medical transport providers, its programs combine strong underwriting expertise with robust risk and claims management resources designed for the fast-moving transportation sector. Program listing: Amwins Underwriting — Transportation

Falvey Insurance Group — Transportation & Logistics Liability

Falvey Insurance Group’s Transportation and Logistics Liability program delivers comprehensive protection for logistics service providers and transport operators. Built through innovative underwriting, it offers end-to-end coverage for evolving supply-chain risks—ideal for common carriers, freight forwarders, transport intermediaries, and third-party logistics providers. The program combines legal and contractual liability for cargo loss or damage with protection for failures in contractual performance, plus general liability and contingent auto liability where applicable. Backed by Accelerant Specialty Insurance Company, it includes world-class claims handling, in-house legal expertise, and access to a global network of adjusters and surveyors. For brokers serving logistics and multimodal transportation accounts, Falvey’s program offers a sophisticated, full-package solution supported by specialized underwriting and responsive service. Program listing: Falvey Insurance Group — Transportation & Logistics Liability

IGP Specialty — Transportation

IGP Specialty, representing Strategic Insurance Underwriters (SIU), U.S. Risk’s transportation division, provides tailored insurance solutions for a wide range of for-hire trucking firms. Available in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin, the program offers competitive coverage through top-rated insurers. SIU’s underwriters bring deep experience in a tightening market marked by higher insurance costs, driver shortages, and increased accident frequency. Coverage options include primary liability up to $2 million, physical damage, cargo, non-trucking liability, and occupational accident insurance for independent contractors. With strong carrier relationships and a team that understands the evolving risks facing American truckers, IGP Specialty delivers the underwriting flexibility and service brokers need to secure dependable protection for transportation clients. Program listing: IGP Specialty — Transportation

Novacore — True Transport Insure

True Transport Insure (TTI) from Novacore is a leading provider of specialty transportation insurance focused on the owner-operator segment. With more than 20 years of experience, TTI helps agents design and manage programs that strengthen their trucking books through best-in-class coverage and proprietary technology. The program offers physical damage, non-trucking liability (bobtail), occupational accident with contract liability, workers’ compensation, and major medical or mini-med options, along with captive solutions. TTI also provides coverage for freight brokers, forwarders, and moving and storage operations through tailored package programs. Supported by its TrueAdvantage technology platform, TTI simplifies administration for agents — streamlining applications, renewals, and certificates — while providing the market access and flexibility needed to serve independent contractors and small fleets nationwide. Program listing: Novacore — True Transport Insure

RPS Signature Programs — Transportation eComm

RPS Signature Programs makes small-to-mid-size trucking placements faster with its Transportation eComm platform, allowing agents to quote, bind, and issue truckers general liability, motor truck cargo, and auto physical damage coverage in minutes.  Designed for agents who want to handle smaller accounts efficiently while focusing on larger fleet opportunities, the program provides a quick, straightforward way to manage transportation risks without sacrificing expertise. Its defined appetite and digital workflow streamline the placement process for qualified risks, helping brokers stay profitable while meeting the needs of trucking clients seeking responsive coverage solutions. Program listing: RPS Signature Programs — Transportation eComm

Market Trends Driving Transportation Insurance in 2025

Several factors are driving heightened interest in transportation insurance placements.
  • A shortage of high-quality drivers and an aging workforce are creating elevated liability and operational risk exposure.
  • Regulatory shifts, including tighter hours-of-service enforcement and rising nuclear verdicts in trucking litigation, are intensifying pressure on carriers and insurers.
  • Supply-chain instability and a surge in cargo theft are leading to more claims related to theft and delivery delays, heightening the need for comprehensive cargo coverage.
  • Technology advancements — such as telematics, dashcams, and predictive analytics — are transforming how underwriters assess and manage fleet risk. Some companies are still lagging behind in technology adoption.
  • The growth of electric and hybrid fleets is introducing new exposures tied to battery fires, charging infrastructure, and residual values.
  • Heightened environmental scrutiny is pushing logistics operations to meet stricter emissions standards and address pollution liability concerns.
These trends elevate the importance of placing transportation risks with programs that integrate risk control, specialist underwriting, and digital access.

Searching for Transportation Insurance Solutions?

Transportation remains one of the most actively searched program categories on ProgramBusiness. Brokers and MGAs are actively looking to capture momentum in trucking, logistics, and delivery-fleet placements. The programs highlighted above reflect diversified strengths, from owner-operator niche markets and national fleet platforms to automated digital quoting and cargo and logistics intermediaries. Consider listing your program or creating a storefront on ProgramBusiness to increase visibility among decision-makers in the transport-insurance space. In our next articles in this series, we will explore the product-recall and habitational program markets.

FAQ About Transportation Insurance Programs

What does transportation insurance cover?

It typically includes commercial auto liability and physical damage, motor truck cargo or logistics liability, general liability, and other specialized coverages such as occupational accident or umbrella protection.

Who needs transportation insurance?

For-hire trucking firms, owner-operators, freight brokers, logistics intermediaries, last-mile delivery fleets, and passenger transport operations all require tailored transportation programs.

What is the difference between motor truck cargo and auto liability coverage?

Auto liability covers injury or damage arising from the operation of a vehicle. Motor truck cargo covers loss or damage to freight in transit or storage, often factoring in supply-chain exposures, theft, mishandling, and logistics intermediary liability.

How do transportation insurance providers determine pricing?

Underwriters evaluate fleet size and composition, driver experience and safety records, radius of operations, cargo type, use of telematics or safety programs, prior loss history, and geographic exposures. Programs with strong risk-control tools and digital data often yield more favorable terms.

How can brokers find top transportation insurance companies?

Use platforms such as ProgramBusiness.com to search by coverage keyword (transportation, trucking, cargo), compare program profiles, and connect directly to underwriting teams able to quote and bind.

About ProgramBusiness

ProgramBusiness is a leading insuretech marketplace connecting agents, brokers, MGAs and carriers. We enable professionals to list their specialty programs, receive verified feedback, and be discovered by motivated buyers across the industry. Larry Neilson With 35 years in the Property/Casualty insurance industry under his belt, Larry has helped insurance agents, carriers, MGAs/MGUs, wholesalers, program administrators, and vendors capitalize on the latest in sales and marketing, data development, Internet marketing, SEO, email marketing, and social media distribution.
Read More

October 24, 2025

Top 5 Trending Insurance Markets of October 2025, Part 2: Auto Dealers Insurance

Following our exploration of builders risk programs, we now shift gears to another high-traffic segment: auto dealers insurance. October’s ProgramBusiness search data shows a surge of interest around dealership programs, reflecting an industry adapting to electric-vehicle (EV) expansion, inventory volatility, and evolving liability exposures. This second installment in ProgramBusiness’s five-part “Trending Markets” series for October spotlights the auto dealers sector — one of the most competitive yet opportunity-rich areas for specialty insurers. Anchored by the ProgramBusiness marketplace, agents and program managers are connecting with auto dealers insurance companies that deliver broad protection, flexible underwriting, and technology-enabled solutions. Here’s what’s driving the demand — and which programs stand out.

What Is Auto Dealers Insurance? An Overview

Auto dealers insurance, sometimes called “garage insurance” or “dealer open lot,” is a tailored commercial policy designed to protect auto dealerships from the unique risks of selling, servicing, and storing vehicles. A comprehensive auto dealers insurance coverage package typically combines:
  • Garage liability: Covers bodily injury or property damage resulting from dealership operations
  • Garagekeepers coverage: Protects customers’ vehicles while in the dealer’s care, custody, or control
  • Dealers open lot: Covers physical damage to inventory from theft, vandalism, or weather events
  • Errors and omissions: Addresses title errors, odometer discrepancies, or misrepresentation claims
  • Property and business interruption: Safeguards the facility, signage, and income continuity after a loss
The coverage applies to franchised and independent dealerships, service centers, and even specialty resale or collector-vehicle operations. As the auto retail landscape evolves — with digital services and transactions, EV risks, and unprecedented cyber exposure — brokers are turning to specialized insurance for auto dealers that can adapt quickly to shifting needs.

What To Look For in Auto Dealers Insurance Companies

The best auto dealers insurance providers balance comprehensive protection with underwriting flexibility. When evaluating programs, consider:
  • Program specialization: Choose managing general agents (MGAs) and carriers that focus specifically on dealership risks, including service, towing, and storage operations.
  • Coverage flexibility: Look for tailored limits across garage, property, and open-lot exposures.
  • Claims expertise: Dealership claims often involve multiple parties and property types — speed and clarity are critical.
  • Regional appetite: Some markets specialize in certain dealership categories, like coastal or high-volume franchise operations.
  • Technology support: Modern programs often include digital portals for quotes, certificates, and claims management.
ProgramBusiness allows brokers to compare coverage options, appetite, and service reputation from leading auto dealers insurance companies nationwide.

6 Top Auto Dealers Insurance Companies To Consider

Below are standout dealership programs listed on ProgramBusiness. Each offers its own strengths, from franchise specialization to garage, towing, and valet solutions.

Amwins Underwriting

Amwins Program Underwriters, part of the Amwins Underwriting division, brings over 30 years of experience serving the auto dealer space through its DealerGuard and Auto Dealer’s Pollution programs. Designed for franchised and independent dealerships, these offerings deliver comprehensive protection for sales, service, and repair operations, with flexible underwriting and strong carrier partnerships. The DealerGuard program provides Auto Dealer’s Open Lot coverage with a minimum premium of $10,000, supported by an internal claims team and real-time weather event reporting. It’s backed by an A.M. Best A-rated carrier and offers the stability and expertise dealers need to manage evolving risks. For smaller servicing operations, the Auto Dealer’s Pollution program provides a streamlined, customizable solution for site pollution liability coverage. Available nationwide with a minimum premium of $500 and backed by an A.M. Best A+ rated carrier, it offers accessible environmental protection for garages and repair shops. Program listing: Amwins Underwriting — Auto Dealers

Jimcor Agencies

Jimcor’s GarageSolved program offers a broad array of solutions for auto dealers and garage operations, providing flexible options for risks of all sizes. The program includes coverage for garage liability, dealers physical damage, garagekeepers, uninsured and underinsured motorist, personal injury protection, medical payments (premises and auto), and broadened coverage enhancements. Additional options include auto dealers E&O, false pretense, and packaging with general liability and property. Target classes range from retail and wholesale auto dealers to specialty operations such as antique or vintage restorers, body and paint shops, mobile mechanics, heavy vehicle and farm equipment dealers, motorcycle sales and repair, golf cart and RV businesses, and even valet and full-service car wash operations. With access to multiple markets and streamlined online quoting, GarageSolved simplifies placement for brokers while providing tailored protection for a wide variety of automotive risks. Program listing: Jimcor Agencies — GarageSolved

KBK Insurance Group — A Program of Novacore

For more than 30 years, KBK Insurance Group — a program of Novacore — has been a leading market for hard-to-place garage and towing risks. The program provides comprehensive property and casualty coverage for commercial tow truck operators, garages, auto salvage yards, dismantling and recycling companies, and related businesses. Key coverages include commercial auto liability, general liability, garagekeepers legal liability, auto physical damage, facility property coverage, workers’ compensation, on-hook/cargo, hired and non-owned auto, and dealer plates. Backed by an A+ rated national carrier, KBK serves as a trusted one-stop shop for complex garage and towing accounts, with no radius limits for towing and quick turnaround times. Its combination of deep underwriting expertise, competitive coverages, and dedicated service makes it a natural complement to dealership operations that include roadside assistance, towing, or repair divisions. Program listing: KBK Insurance Group — Commercial Towing & Garage Insurance

Ryan Specialty National Programs

Ryan Specialty’s Franchised Auto Dealers Package program offers guaranteed-cost, admitted-market coverage designed specifically for franchised new car and RV dealerships. The program combines a wide range of protections under one streamlined platform, including garagekeepers coverage, errors and omissions, hired and non-owned auto, equipment breakdown, crime, employment practices liability (EPLI), cyber liability, physical damage, and commercial umbrella coverage. With no audits, no monthly reporting, and flexible direct-bill or agency-bill installment options, the program provides ease of administration for high-volume dealership accounts. Minimum premiums vary based on risk, and coverage availability may differ by state. Underwritten through RSG Specialty, LLC, a subsidiary of Ryan Specialty, LLC, the program is backed by experienced underwriting teams specializing in complex dealership operations. Program listing: Ryan Specialty National Programs — Franchised Auto Dealers Package Insurance Program

USG Insurance Services

USG Insurance Services offers a broad garage insurance program designed for both dealers and non-dealers, including repair and service stations, parking garages, towing operations, and valet services. Coverage options include property, dealers open lot, garage liability, garagekeepers legal liability, hired and non-owned auto, special events, and excess or umbrella coverage. Additional protections such as errors and omissions (including odometer and title E&O), directors and officers, and employment practices liability are also available, allowing agents to tailor coverage to complex automotive risks. Program listing: USG Insurance Services — Garage Insurance

Victor Insurance Managers Inc.

Victor’s Automotive Dealership program delivers expertly underwritten insurance solutions through A-rated carriers, tailored to the needs of franchised and large independent auto dealers. The program offers broad coverage, including garage/package, dealers open lot, commercial auto, hired and non-owned auto, and pollution liability. Optional enhancements include earthquake and flood protection, with limits available up to $25 million per location. The program is available in most states (excluding Alabama, Hawaii, western Kansas, Louisiana, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming) and features competitive pricing, commissions, and flexible underwriting. A broker appointment is required to access the program. Program listing: Victor Insurance Managers Inc. — Auto Dealers

Related Coverage: Parking & Valet Insurance

Auto dealers and valet operators share some of the same core exposures — such as vehicle damage, customer liability, and property risks — but their insurance needs differ. Valet and parking programs focus on managing vehicles owned by others rather than inventory, requiring specialized coverage for operations on third-party premises. Below is one program to consider.

Alliant Underwriting Solutions — Parkwise: Parking and Valet Insurance

While not specifically an auto dealers program, Parkwise from Alliant Underwriting Solutions complements dealership and garage operations that include valet or parking services. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience, the program offers specialized coverage for self-park, valet, shuttle, and event parking businesses. Coverages include general liability, garagekeepers’ legal liability, property, owned auto, workers’ compensation, umbrella, and professional liability, with limits available up to $100 million. Parkwise also provides risk-management resources, contract review, and claims support to help parking operators and related businesses manage complex exposures. Program listing: Alliant Underwriting Solutions — Parkwise: Parking & Valet Insurance

Market Trends Driving Demand in 2025

Auto dealers face a shifting risk profile in 2025. Among the top market drivers:
  • Production and supply-chain instability: Aluminum, semiconductor, and rare-earth shortages have paused output at Ford and Stellantis plants, keeping prices high and dealer inventories tight.
  • Rising EV exposures: Electric vehicles introduce unique risks — battery fires, specialized repair costs, and environmental liability — that require updated auto dealers insurance coverage forms.
  • Transit theft surge: According to a September 2025 Insurance Business report, auto dealerships are facing a rise in vehicle thefts during transit as criminals exploit gaps in logistics chains. Programs like Amwins’ DealerGuard have reported multiple six-figure claims, prompting carriers to tighten loss-control measures and raise deductibles for repeat thefts.
  • Cyber and data privacy risks: Dealerships increasingly rely on digital retail platforms and customer data systems, heightening the need for cyber liability extensions.
  • Workforce and liability claims: Service technician shortages are forcing many dealerships to operate with smaller or less experienced service teams. This trend can strain operations and increase the importance of strong safety protocols and employment practices coverage.
  • Franchise consolidation: Large dealership groups are acquiring smaller operations and gaining scale, which may influence their insurance needs and bargaining power in coverages and terms. Smaller independents, meanwhile, may look to specialized MGAs for tailored underwriting solutions.
With these trends in play, brokers and MGAs are actively seeking auto dealers insurance providers capable of adjusting limits, adding endorsements, and integrating loss-control tools.

Searching for Auto Dealers Solutions?

Auto dealers insurance continues to be one of the most searched program categories on ProgramBusiness, as agents and carriers look for scalable, specialized options that balance cost control with comprehensive protection. The programs highlighted above showcase diverse strengths — digital efficiency, niche underwriting, and value-added risk management. To boost visibility and connect with motivated buyers, consider listing your program on ProgramBusiness. Up next in our series: habitational, transportation, and product-recall programs — each shaping the next wave of market momentum in 2025.

FAQ About Auto Dealers Insurance Programs

What auto dealers policy provides coverage for a typical auto dealer?

A standard auto dealers policy — sometimes called a garage policy — combines garage liability, garagekeepers, and dealers open lot coverage to protect against property damage, bodily injury, and loss to vehicle inventory.

Who needs auto dealers insurance?

Franchised and independent auto dealers, service garages, and used-car lots all need this coverage to safeguard inventory, facilities, and customer vehicles.

What does auto dealers insurance cover?

It typically covers owned inventory, customer vehicles, business property, and liability arising from operations such as test drives, repairs, or on-lot accidents.

How much does auto dealers insurance cost?

Premiums vary based on lot size, location, sales volume, and inventory value. Garage liability and open-lot deductibles often drive pricing differences among dealers.

Are there optional coverages to consider?

Yes. Dealers often add false pretense coverage, errors and omissions, cyber liability, or environmental impairment coverage, depending on their operations.

About Program Business

ProgramBusiness is a leading insuretech marketplace connecting agents, brokers, MGAs, and carriers. We enable insurance professionals to list their programs, receive verified feedback from users, and be discovered by buyers across the industry. Jeff Neilson Co-founder of Neilson Marketing Services and ProgramBusiness.com, Jeff has 30 years of experience in the insurance industry putting his expertise to work for P/C agencies, MGAs/MGUs, wholesalers, E&S brokers, and program administrators nationwide.
Read More

October 22, 2025

​​Top 5 Trending Insurance Markets of October 2025, Part 1: Builders Risk Insurance

In the often volatile world of construction risk, one program category continues to generate high search interest on ProgramBusiness — and for good reason. Among insurance professionals, the phrase “top-rated builders risk insurance coverage” is becoming almost shorthand for “where the demand is.” This article kicks off a five-part series exploring October’s most-searched program categories on ProgramBusiness, starting with builders risk insurance — the foundation of many successful commercial projects.  Anchored by ProgramBusiness’s robust marketplace, we’re seeing brokers, managing general agents (MGAs), and carriers increasingly seeking builders risk solutions to fuel growth and differentiate offerings. For those exploring the leading programs, here’s why builders risk is trending now — and which programs deserve a closer look.

What Is Builders Risk Insurance? An Overview

Builders risk insurance — also known as “course of construction” coverage — is a specialized form of property insurance that protects a building (and related materials) during construction or renovation. Unlike traditional property policies that assume a “finished state,” a builders risk insurance policy is inherently temporary and tailored to the evolving nature of a project. Those most likely to need this coverage include contractors, developers, project owners, and sometimes lenders. A typical commercial builders risk insurance plan covers onsite materials, temporary structures, scaffolding, and potentially materials in transit. The dynamic nature of construction means exposures shift daily. Good builders risk insurance programs account for that, with flexible limits and extension options. Where builders risk differs from standard property insurance is in underwriting discipline and timing. Carriers are underwriting a “moving target,” often breaking down exposures by phase, jobsite location, project type (ground-up, renovation, retrofit), and exclusion sensitivities.

What To Look For in Builders Risk Insurance Companies

Finding the right partner is more than picking a name off a list. When evaluating builders risk insurance companies, keep in mind:
  • Underwriting flexibility: Can the program tailor coverage to unusual designs or hybrid structures?
  • Eligibility scope: Do they accept ground-up, renovation, vertical expansion, or interim repair projects?
  • Duration and extension options: Construction delays are the rule, not the exception; policy end-dates and extensions matter.
  • Value-added features: Some programs offer built-in business interruption coverage, supply chain protection, or soft-cost extensions.
  • Regional or coastal appetite: Projects in high-risk zones (e.g., hurricane or wind areas) often need specialized approaches.
  • Program administration strength: A well-run builders risk insurance program should streamline quoting, endorsements, and claims processing for busy brokers.
ProgramBusiness is a discovery hub for various programs, helping agents and MGAs compare builders risk insurance carriers based on appetite, terms, and service reputation.

4 Top Builders Risk Insurance Companies To Consider

Below are standout builders risk programs currently listed on ProgramBusiness, in alphabetical order. (All links below are to ProgramBusiness listings for your convenience.) These four are not exhaustive, but they reflect the diversity of approaches in the builders' risk marketplace today. Watch for more listings on our platform as more companies add storefronts to ProgramBusiness.

1. Amwins Underwriting

Amwins Special Risk Underwriters (SRU), part of Amwins Underwriting, offers CAT-exposed property capacity available exclusively through Amwins brokers, along with supplemental products such as builder’s risk, earthquake, wind, and AOP deductible buybacks. In today’s selective property market, SRU has secured additional capacity with A- or better carrier partners as its exclusive wholesale MGU for national property programs — delivering valuable options for agents and insureds in a tightening market. Program listing: Amwins Underwriting — Property

2. IGP Specialty

Builders face significant risks from fire, weather damage, theft, and equipment breakdown throughout construction. The Safehold Builder’s Risk Program, available through IGP Specialty, helps protect builders and developers from financial losses on residential, commercial, hospitality, and institutional projects — from groundbreaking through certificate of occupancy. In coastal regions, IGP also offers a Wind Deductible Buy-Back program that provides an extra layer of protection where high deductibles have become common. The coverage can apply to both commercial and residential projects under construction, typically for 12-month terms (up to 18 months for builders risk). Soft costs are excluded from this coverage, which can be written with or without an annual aggregate limit for general or named windstorm events. Program listings: 

3. RPS Signature Programs: AU Gold

The AU Gold program from RPS Signature Programs focuses on insurance for vacant and unoccupied builders renovation and course-of-construction projects. It’s designed for agents seeking flexible solutions and straightforward underwriting. RPS emphasizes common-sense underwriting and a user-friendly experience, helping agents place challenging renovation and builders risk accounts efficiently. Program listing: RPS Signature Programs – AU Gold

4. Victor Insurance Managers Inc.

Victor’s builders risk solution, offered through its V² platform, allows agents and brokers to quote, bind, and issue policies in minutes. The program is available nationwide (excluding Alaska and Hawaii) and is backed by an A++-rated admitted carrier. Minimum premiums start at $400, with limits up to $8 million for frame and joisted masonry construction and $15 million for non-combustible, masonry non-combustible, and fire-resistive construction. Target markets include residential and commercial construction, remodeling, and installation floaters. Coverage highlights include protection for collapse, scaffolding and temporary structures, debris removal, pollutant cleanup, ordinance or law (direct damage), valuable papers and records, expediting expense, and limited coverage for fungi, wet rot, and dry rot. Green building recertification, contract penalties, and claim preparation expenses are also available. Program listing: Victor Insurance Managers Builders Risk

Market Trends Driving Demand in 2025

What’s contributing to growing interest in builders risk programs? Here are a few factors.
  • Rate softening and capacity growth: The first half of 2025 saw rate moderation as underwriters compete for quality risk.
  • Selective appetite among carriers: Even as rates soften, carriers are becoming more discerning, increasingly focusing on Class A risks and avoiding marginal exposures.
  • Expanding market size: The U.S. builders risk market is growing rapidly, valued at roughly USD $5.36 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD $8.75 billion by 2033.
  • Tech, data, and analytics: To manage exposures and improve underwriting, programs are integrating tools like drone-based inspections and risk scoring driven by artificial intelligence (AI).
  • Market pressure from construction trends: Supply-chain disruptions, labor shortages, and rising costs can mean increased premiums; however, insurers are also focusing on risk management and customized insurance solutions to address specific risks across commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects.
Given these dynamics, we can expect continued interest in builders risk insurance quotes and programs that offer flexibility, value-adds, and speed. 

Searching for Builders Risk Solutions?

Builders risk remains one of the most searched and actively purchased program types in 2025. Agents, MGAs, and carriers are all seeking access to top-rated builders risk insurance coverage that combines appetite flexibility, value-added innovation, and underwriting speed. The four programs listed above illustrate different strategies — some niche, some broad — but each worthy of closer review through the lens of your client base. To boost the discoverability of your particular program, consider listing it on ProgramBusiness. In the next installment, we’ll turn our attention to auto dealer programs, another high-traffic segment seeing renewed momentum in 2025 — followed by habitational, transportation, and product recall.

FAQ About Builders Risk Insurance Programs

What is a builders risk insurance program?

A builders risk insurance program is a packaged, often niche, underwriting platform built by MGAs or carriers to serve contractors and developers. It encompasses quoting, underwriting, claims, and often marketing support aimed specifically at builders risk exposures.

What is the average cost of builders risk insurance?

Across the industry, premiums often fall between 1% and 5% of the total construction cost. Factors such as location, timeline, construction site size, materials, and more can impact the cost of a builders risk insurance policy.

When to buy builder risk insurance?

Coverage should begin before the first material is delivered or the first structural work is started, ideally tied to the contract start date. The policy typically terminates when building occupancy or stabilization is achieved.

Who usually pays for builders risk insurance?

It depends on contract terms. Sometimes the project owner purchases the policy, and other times, the general contractor does. All major stakeholders (owner, contractor, lender) can be listed as insureds.

What does builders risk insurance not cover?

Common exclusions include floods (unless endorsed), earthquakes, wear-and-tear, faulty workmanship, and design defects. Always review the policy form — some carriers offer enhancements for these gaps.

About ProgramBusiness

ProgramBusiness is a leading insuretech marketplace connecting agents, brokers, MGAs, and carriers. We enable insurance professionals to list their programs, receive verified feedback from users, and be discovered by buyers across the industry. Larry Neilson With 35 years in the Property/Casualty insurance industry under his belt, Larry has helped insurance agents, carriers, MGAs/MGUs, wholesalers, program administrators, and vendors capitalize on the latest in sales and marketing, data development, Internet marketing, SEO, email marketing, and social media distribution.
Read More

June 25, 2022

Tribal Insurance Programs: How They Work

Tribal insurance programs provide unique insurance solutions for sovereign nations. The goal is to address protecting the distinctive cultural, financial, and legal requirements of tribal governments.

The size and makeup of tribal nations vary from members residing in small, remote rural villages to large cities and everything in between. And regardless of location and size, they all need to safeguard the tribe's assets from financial losses. Tribal insurance programs generally provide a comprehensive suite of traditional and specific coverages designed to insure the risks of federally recognized Indian nations within United States borders, including their business and gaming operations.

Specialty brokers and program administrators work with carriers to develop coverages for tribal governments and businesses based on each tribe's needs. The assortment of products and services that comprise Tribal Insurance Programs varies. Programs can run from a package of insurance coverage as simple as a group of single-line policies to a collection of multi-policy packages that provide comprehensive layers of protection.

How Does a Tribal Insurance Program Differ from Traditional Commercial Insurance?

Commercial insurance is a must when considering the coverage tribal governments need. Tribal insurance, however, differs significantly from commercial insurance and requires different considerations.

The primary difference between tribal and traditional insurance is that it meets the specific needs of tribal organizations. For example, tribal nations include provisions that protect their sovereignty, meaning they have the right to determine their laws and regulations regarding their internal affairs and governance.

Commercial insurance covers most traditional business risks tribal businesses face, but commercial policies do not cover tribal operations. Instead, they only cover specific areas such as construction, transportation, or gaming.

Who Provides Tribal Insurance Programs?

Insurance companies working with MGAs and program administrators create these types of programs for tribal nations to match the highly specialized and complex needs of sovereign nations. In addition, these policies require careful consideration of risk factors, unique legal requirements, and other variables that may not apply to non-tribal entities.

Some tribal nations operate under federal or state laws that mandate certain levels of liability and worker's compensation coverage. Other tribes choose to self-insure their enterprises through private carriers. Regardless of whether a tribal government or business decides to self-insure, it is critical to know how Tribal Insurance Programs work.

What Does Tribal Insurance Cover?

As an example of a Tribal Insurance Program, the following Tribal Coverages are available from Arrowhead General Insurance Agency's program for sovereign nations. First, it protects both specific and varied tribal risks.

Comprehensive Property Coverage

Includes blanket limits and the critical coverage extensions that matter most for your client's exposures.

  • $1 million per occurrence
  • $2 million aggregate limit
  • $5 million retained limit
  • $10 million self-insured retention (SIR)
  • $100,000 deductible
  • $500,000 sublimit
  • $25,000 sublimit

In addition to comprehensive property coverage, many tribal nations require that their insurance program includes:

  • Building coverage
  • Fire coverage
  • Flood coverage
  • Hail/windstorm coverage
  • Earthquake coverage
  • Mold coverage
  • Risk Management

General, Liquor, and Professional Liability

This coverage includes police, health care professionals, Tribal Officials, E&O, Employment Practices Liability, Cyber Liability, and Fiduciary Liability protections.

  • Professional liability coverage protects professionals from being held liable in civil court for errors they make during their work. This type of coverage can help defend Tribal businesses and employees from claims related to malpractice, negligence, and professional services rendered.
  • Employment practices liability protects employers from civil suits filed by former employees alleging discrimination or harassment.
  • Cyber liability covers losses associated with cyber-attacks on computer systems, networks, or data.
  • Fiduciary liability protects financial advisors from lawsuits claiming that they failed to act in the best interests of their clients.
  • Liquor liability coverage protects liquor license holders from claims made by third parties injured after consuming alcohol purchased from them.

Public Entity Liability

Public Entity provides coverage for public entities like municipalities, school boards, and counties.

Tribal Liability

Provides coverage for tribal governments and tribal officials for acts committed within the scope of employment.

E&O

Errors and omissions, also known as professional liability insurance, cover legal fees incurred in defending a claim brought against a tribal nation for damages caused by an employee's negligence, misconduct, or breach of contract. It also covers defense costs when people sue tribes for defamation, libel, slander, invasion of privacy, false light, intentional infliction of emotional distress, or other tortious conduct.

Tribal Workers' Benefits

Includes competitively priced Guaranteed Cost and Loss-Sensitive options that give tribes with excellent risk-management the ability to access significant savings at program inception.

Automobile Physical Damage and Liability

This policy addresses unique tribal nation automobile exposures.

Excess Liability

This liability coverage extends the limits for all primary policies, including Sexual Misconduct, Errors & Omissions, and Employment Practices Liability.

All Lines Aggregate / Self-Insured Retention

Self-insureds are responsible for paying claims when they occur. The SIR is a way to pay claims without requiring immediate out-of-pocket reimbursement. In addition, the program allows insureds to spread unexpected claim costs over several years.

SIRs are calculated based on the total premium paid for the year. For example, if you have a $1 million annual premium, you will set your SIR at 1% of your yearly premium. If your annual premium were $100,000, your SIR would be $10,000. Once established, the SIR will not increase. You may request a change in the SIR amount up until the end of the policy period.

Active Shooter / Deadly Weapons Protection

Protects against lawsuits and potential out-of-pocket damages should an active shooter situation occur where a person comes onto Tribal Nation property or workplace with a gun and begins shooting people indiscriminately. In addition to providing coverage for bodily injury and property damage caused by an active shooter, this coverage also includes defense costs incurred by an insured business and its legal fees.

Unmanned Aircraft Liability and Property Damage

As UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) quickly expand into commercial uses, they create new liability and property damage risks for commercial operators.

  • Property Damage

The owner and operator might be liable if a drone crashes into someone else's property. This coverage protects businesses from such events. For example, it covers both physical damage to other people's property and loss of use of their property due to drone crashes.

  • Liability

Should a UAV operation result in injuries or deaths, this coverage protects against lawsuits for these types of claims. It will help pay for settlements, judgments, and defense costs from injuries sustained while operating unmanned aircraft. It also covers damage to any property to buildings, vehicles, and other equipment.

Traumatic Event Expense Coverage

Traumatic event expense coverage insurance helps cover medical expenses incurred due to a traumatic injury. It covers both pre-existing injuries and those sustained during the covered event. In addition, the policy pays out to claimants who suffer from any illness or injury caused by the covered event.

Tribal Insurance Program Costs

Many factors affect the cost of a commercial tribal insurance program. The factors include the usual considerations such as claims history, creditworthiness, business experience, etc. Additionally, the factors impact the program's premium:

  • Tribal Status - Tribes with federal recognition are eligible for more favorable rates than tribes without federal status.
  • Tribal Reservation Size – Smaller reservations tend to have lower rates than larger ones.
  • Location - Insurers often charge higher rates in rural areas than urban areas.
  • Size - Smaller entities typically pay lower rates than larger ones.
  • Exclusions - Certain exclusions apply to specific policies. These include:
  • Deductible - Deductibles vary depending on the size of the company.
  • Coverage Limits - Covers only particular losses.
  • Other Policies - Other policies may overlap with the one being purchased.

Best Tribal Insurance Programs

At Program Business, we understand the challenges to independent insurance agents in finding and gaining access to the markets for hard-to-place, unusual risks in the Excess & Surplus Lines and program business space. So, for example, when you need help with pricing and placing the unique coverages required to protect sovereign nations with the best tribal insurance programs, the ProgramBusiness.com Market Directory is here for you. An example of how it works is when doing a quick search of the Program Business Market Directory for "Tribal Insurance." The result returns the Arrowhead Tribal Insurance Program.

Arrowhead's Tribal Program was created in 1987 as the Program for Sovereign Indian Nations, with the assistance of Native American attorneys and tribal administrators. Its goal is to help the Native American community with their specialized insurance needs by offering insurance coverage that recognizes tribal sovereignty established by the Constitution.

  1. works with a select group of agents and brokers nationwide who specialize in placing tribal coverage through our network of top-rated insurance companies with "A" or higher ratings. Its services include risk management to help mitigate a tribe's risks and an in-house claims team that understands tribal law, tribal court systems, FTCA protection, and tribal sovereignty claim issues.

 

Read More

June 11, 2022

Transportation Insurance and What It Entails

Transportation insurance programs provide a range of standard and unique business insurance coverages for transportation-related businesses. Transportation is a massive industry with many companies providing services that transport cargo and passengers using planes, trains, trucks, and buses to carry people. Transportation infrastructure includes airports, seaports, train stations, and highway rest areas. Companies fall into two types of service provided.

Transportation Company Categories

The transportation sector falls into the two primary business categories of providers and users:

Transportation Providers

The transportation provider category includes all companies that provide transportation services for their customers. Examples of transportation providers include airlines, truck carriers, railroads, bus operators, and shipping lines. They may offer only one form of transportation or several forms of transportation.

Transportation Users.

The transportation user category includes companies moving goods or people from one place to another. These companies may use any mode of transportation but most commonly use ground (land-based) modes such as railroad, truck, ship, pipeline, etc. In addition, they may use air, sea, or space transportation.

What is Transportation Insurance & Who Needs It?

Transportation insurance is a policy that provides coverage for the insured's property while in transit from one location known as the "premises" to another site known as the "destination." The value of goods and the risk while the property is in transit from loading to the destination determine the necessary coverage and premium.

While transportation insurance can apply to personal lines insurance, this report on Transportation Insurance Programs focuses on commercial insurance for businesses shipping products inland and overseas, transporting people, and providing transportation-related business services.

What Do Transportation Insurance Programs Cover?

There are several coverages combined in specific transportation insurance programs. Programs begin by providing protections for normal business operations with liability and property insurance and an array of standard and specific transportation-related coverages.

Besides business insurance policies, transportation insurance programs also safeguard any loss or damage of the goods due to handling or other forms of damage (such as a fire). Such losses might include accidents, explosions, fire, theft, and malicious damages or theft.

Businesses and individuals often use transportation insurance coverage when moving or relocating overseas. For companies that heavily rely on their inventory or goods arriving as expected, transportation insurance programs offer security and a degree of financial protection for their revenues.

Standard Business Insurance Coverages

Financial security within the transportation sector builds a foundation on a base package of business insurance coverages, including:

  • General Liability.
  • Property Damage.
  • Business Interruption.
  • Workers Compensation.
  • Cybercrime.
  • Commercial Auto.
  • Cargo Insurance.
  • Commercial Umbrella, and more.

Best Transportation Insurance Programs

At Program Business, we understand the need for agents to connect with MGAs, and program administrators, to gain access to markets for hard-to-place, unusual risks in the Excess & Surplus Lines and program business space. That's why we created the Program Business Market Directory.

An example of how the directory works is that a search for "Transportation" will direct you to the page with information on specialized transportation insurance programs offered by Amwins Underwriting. The following list of transportation underwriting programs and exclusive brokerage products it provides to independent agents and their clients.

Business Auto

Program administrators provide business auto insurance for many classes, including those whose primary service is not transportation.

Cargo & Physical Damage

A competitive program for local, intermediate, and long-haul trucking companies requires cargo and physical damage coverage.

Cargo/Transit & Cargo Stock Throughput

Coverage for admitted cargo insurance for global trade and transit risks.

Commercial Auto

Commercial auto insurance offers coverage across classes and specialties.

Deadly Assault + Sexual Misconduct

Amwins' exclusive product combines deadly weapon assault and sexual molestation insurance coverage to combat exclusions when unconscionable incidents occur.

Dump Trucks

An insurance program for truckers with dumping trucks with fleets ranging from 1-75 power units.

Environmental Transportation

This initiative gives the ISO "Pollution Liability-Broadened Coverage for Covered Autos. Likewise, it is open to those with trucking and business auto risks.

 

Freight Brokers' Liability & Contingent Cargo

It protects truck brokers if a contracted trucker has a coverage issue.

Intermodal Transportation

An exclusive package program serves intermodal transportation risks involved in either drayage or over-the-road contingency.

Limousine & Luxury Transportation

An insurance program designed to meet the exclusive needs of the limousine and luxury transportation industry.

Local/Long Haul Trucking

Providing coverage for both for-hire and not-for-hire trucking operations. This coverage's typical vehicle types include truck and truck/tractor-trailer combinations.

Logistics Operations

Admitted insurance program tailored to logistics operations

Paratransit

Supplying coverage for medical transportation that is not for emergencies. It includes special needs transportation, social service groups, and wheelchair vans.

Pizza & Restaurant Delivery

Specific insurance coverage for pizzerias and restaurants, including insuring drivers who deliver food.

Small/Mid-Fleet Trucking Program

A national trucking initiative that goes through a specific selection of retail brokers, offering coverage to drivers that carry up to 24 units.

Public Auto

Our public auto capabilities are managed by a team of underwriters with decades of experience.

RecycleGuard - Recycling Operations

The primary essential insurance provider to the recycling industry.

Repossession

Program insurance for professional repossession contractors who work with banks, credit unions, and other reputable lending institutions.

Taxicabs

A nationwide taxicab program that includes owner-operators and fleets with less than eight passenger seats.

Towing

An insurance program for professional, for-hire tow companies that partake in approved ancillary operations that includes auto repair, gas sales, body shop, storage, and other auto-related repair shops.

Workers' Compensation - Transportation

Comprehensive workers' compensation and accident solutions for the transportation industry

Trucking

A non-admitted packaging program that is supposed to help a substantial network of professional truck drivers who operate on a local, intermediate, or long-haul basis.

Waste Haulers

Comprehensive coverage for non-hazardous waste service operations.

In conclusion, we trust this article is helpful to you in understanding how to choose the best transportation insurance program. We highly recommend you shop around for quotes before making a final decision. ProgramBusiness.com serves the needs of independent agents and carriers, MGAs, wholesalers, and program administrators who rely on the insurance distribution system for specialty programs to market their products and services.

 

Read More

May 28, 2022

Pet Insurance and What It Covers

Pet insurance is a growing market segment. In a State of the Industry Report study, the North American Association (NAPHIA) found the number of pets insured in most cases in 2020 grew by 20% to 3.1 million over 2.5 million in 2019. The dynamics of companion animals living longer and the rising and significant costs of pet care power the growth curve.

Most people treat their pets almost as if they are human, and as such most are considered valued family members. So, it’s natural for most pet owners to provide their animals with quality healthcare. But those sentiments only heighten their concerns about the increasing costs of preventive care, dealing with injuries and critical and chronic illnesses, and the staggering emergency medical care expenses. For many of them, pet insurance is the perfect solution.

A Pet Insurance plan is like health insurance for humans, except it reimburses some medical expenses for a pet's health-related problems. Most policies offer coverage for certain illnesses, injuries, and treatments with various deductibles and payment limits. In addition, the types of pet insurance vary by carrier ranging from multiple coverage choice plans to standard one-size-fits-all plans.

NAIC Pet Industry Overview.

The NAIC described the context of where the pet industry is and a discussion about the situation. They developed a white paper at the 2018 Spring National Meeting. Also, they used the white paper to discuss their report's discoveries. Pet insurance delivers accident and illness coverage for pets, particularly dogs and cats.

Types of Pet Insurance Policies.

Pet insurance is usually available in three types of pet health coverage:

  • Accident-only – exclusive coverage limited to injuries due to accidents with a cap per accident.
  • Accident and illness (A&I) cover accident-related injuries and sickness and disease identified by a veterinarian's diagnosis with caps per accident and illness incidents.
  • Wellness plans cover preventative pet care costs such as annual physical checkups and routine vaccines. However, riders sometimes get it as a rider to A&I plans. This type of comprehensive plan is the most expensive because of the wide range of pet healthcare problems it covers and can include the costs of microchipping and end-of-life expenses.

What Does Pet Insurance Cover?

The coverage will differ. Accident-only and wellness policies are more limited and specific, while an A&I policy includes cancer and most specialty medical care. Particular conditions receive coverage, whether chronic (long-term) or inherited illness, congenital disorders, or diseases.

Pet insurance policies usually include these ailments and conditions with the caveat they vary per pet type, carrier, and policy:

  • Cancer and chemotherapy
  • Heart disease
  • Hepatitis
  • Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
  • Arthritis, skin allergies, conditions, and rashes
  • Obesity-related Type II diabetes
  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Blood and eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Ear infections
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Injuries such as ACL ruptures and sprains
  • Poisoning
  • Standard diagnostic tests including ultrasound, X-ray, MRI, CT scan, and blood tests
  • Medical procedures involving hospitalization, surgery, endoscopy, and nursing care
  • Alternative care includes acupuncture, chiropractic, laser therapy, and other holistic treatment
  • Wellness care for vaccinations, flea/heartworm treatment, and spay and neutering procedures
  • Behavioral therapy to alleviate or modify aggression, destructive chewing, and extreme barking

What Is Not Covered by Pet Insurance?

There are a few things that pet insurance does not cover. 

Pre-existing conditions

Pre-existing illnesses or conditions are medical issues that existed before purchasing a pet insurance plan or diagnosed during the plan's waiting period. Although pre-existing conditions are nearly always excluded from pet insurance plans, some policies will include coverage for past conditions if they have healed.

Cosmetic and Elective Procedures and Surgeries

Coverage excludes declawing, tail docking, or ear cropping that they cannot complete because they are a medical necessity.

Routine Care and Wellness Programs

While most pet insurance plans generally don't cover annual vaccinations, spaying, neutering, and teeth cleaning, some services are insurable as policy addendums or riders for an additional premium.

Breeding

Pet insurance plans exclude paying for breeding or pregnancy, although some carriers offer a rider to help pay for the services.

Most pet insurance policies do not count pre-existing conditions and experimental treatments, including their diagnoses, when deemed experimental, investigational, and not acceptable therapy as established by a state veterinary medical board.

There are some exclusions. It does not cover grooming, non-veterinary medical service, or dietary expenses. Although, some plans offer prescription food and supplements. Many pet insurance policies decline coverage for pets after a certain age. They enforce a waiting period before the policy begins to pay. Although some comprehensive pet insurance plans expand to include dental illnesses such as gum disease and dental accidents, most do not without the coverage added as a policy rider.

Non-Veterinary Pet Insurance Riders

There are additional coverage options with insurance riders. For instance, some non-veterinary services and problems are:

  • Lost dog advertising and rewards
  • Boarding fees for dogs while the owner is in the hospital.
  • Cemetery and burial fees for pet deaths due to accidents
  • Liability and property damage coverage

Does Pet Insurance Include Liability Coverage?

Many policies only offer limited protection against animal bites and other types of bodily injury. Often benefits apply only to animals owned by the policy owner. Others specifically exclude cats and birds. Still, other policies provide coverage only for animals kept inside the house or yard. Therefore, the policyholder must have purchased the policy within 30 days before the incident.

In addition, many policies exclude certain breeds from coverage, and they vary widely among insurers. For example, one carrier excludes pit bulls, bull terriers, rottweilers, chows, mastiffs, malamutes, wolf hybrids, and coyotes. Other carriers limit exclusions for specific breeds for greater availability.

Pet Insurance Costs

A standard A&I policy can have a premium between $500 - $600 annually. The price will vary due to several factors, including:

  • Pet breed
  • Age
  • Zip Code
  • Coverage type
  • Policy limits for reimbursement
  • Deductible amount

Best Pet Insurance Programs

Independent agents also have possibilities in the luxury and companion animals business, such as marketing equine and canine insurance programs. The ProgramBusiness.com Market Directory is the place to find the best pet insurance programs. It's the quickest way to find and access hard-to-place, unusual risks in the Excess & Surplus Lines and program business space.

Your search of the Program Business Market Directory would return results for Amwins Underwriting. In addition, it offers specialty programs for these unique prospective insureds.

  • Animal Clubs, Associations & Special Events – a non-admitted program designed to protect clubs and associations from third-party claims.
  • Animal Mortality - a dedicated program designed to protect against the loss or theft of horses and domesticated animals.
  • Animal Trainers - an insurance program offering general liability coverage for various types of animal trainers. They can add professional liability on an occurrence form.
  • Equine (General & Professional Liability) - provides comprehensive professional and general liability coverage for horse owners, trainers, and equestrians. A deep understanding of the sport drives them.

 

Read More

May 25, 2022

Finding the Best Collector Car Insurance for Client Needs

The market for Collector Cars and Collector Car Insurance is growing. The U.S. represents the largest market for classic cars, with nearly $15 billion in annual revenue and a projection of $19 billion by 2024 for the U.S. collector car market.

What is a Classic vs. Collector Car?

There are factors that separate collector and classic cars. Vintage cars are older than 25 years, while collectible vehicles include late models, exotics, luxury cars, and super-performance automobiles. While most collector cars receive storage as garage queens, some collectors drive their cars mainly for pleasure.

The manufacturing date determines whether a car is antique, vintage, or classic within the car collector industry.

  • Vintage cars produced between 1919 and 1930 received the classifications of "survivor" or "restored" (according to the specifications of the original manufacturer) status.
  • Antique cars manufactured in 1975 or earlier than 45 years. As with vintage vehicles, the status is "survivor" or "restored" (according to specifications) status. Some models from the 1950s are iconic symbols of America's postwar golden age. In that era, one of six jobs was due to manufacturing and sales of automobiles in the U.S.
  • Classic cars have a manufacturing date of 2002 or earlier than 20 years old.

What is Collector Car Insurance?

Collector Car Insurance is like a traditional auto policy. Its coverage depends on the vehicle's value. Additionally, it also depends on usage, storage, and other factors. For example, a Collector Car policy covers property damage and bodily injuries, whether driven for pleasure or attending collector vehicle events. Should the vehicle suffer damage in a covered event or create liability insurance losses, the insurer pays for repairs or losses up to policy limits. Deductibles are usually lower than offered on standard auto policies; some policies offer deductible-free coverage options.

What are the Benefits of Using a Collector Car Insurance Specialty Program?

Generally, specialty programs for collector car insurance are less expensive than standard insurance policies. For example, the annual insurance premium can be 500 percent more than those from a specialty broker. However, traditional insurance policies usually cover the daily driver, but they don't always include the extra benefits of collector car coverage.

Shopping among providers is an excellent suggestion because providers and policies are different. You will find various service levels, rates, types of coverage, and claims handling that vary between programs. Beyond comparing rates, Collector Car Insurance is a "service" that comprises customer service, claims handling, and perhaps most importantly, a knowledgeable staff experienced in insuring collector vehicles.

Types of Car Insurance

The automobile insurance industry offers three types of policies:

  • Actual Cash Value (ACV).
  • Stated Value.
  • Agreed Value.

Actual Cash Value

ACV coverage is the type found in standard auto insurance policies. As the name indicates, the policy pays claims on the insured vehicle's depreciated "book" value because everyday cars lose value as they age.

Stated Value

Stated Value insurance is better than an ACV policy for collectible vehicles. They allow the insured to "state" a value for their collectible vehicle greater than its depreciated "book" value. And conversely, if insuring the collector car is too expensive, a Stated Value policy is an option to get coverage up to policy limits.

For example, suppose the insurance premium for a rare vehicle with a total value of $1 million is too costly for an insured who instead purchases a $100,000 Stated Value policy. That way, they have some coverage for non-total losses while accepting the risk of a total loss beyond their $100,000 policy limit. So it's not an ideal situation, but it is an option better than the perils of bare risk.

Agreed Value

Usually, an "agreed value" will determine the classic car insurance policy. Its features give collectors peace of mind knowing their car's insured value is mutually agreed upon before claims occur. Agreed Value is the best option for collector car insurance because it is the only type of coverage that guarantees the agreed-upon full value receives payment in a total loss minus any deductible.

An Agreed Value Policy has some benefits, as there is no depreciation and no misinterpretation because the predetermined agreed value is what it is. Therefore, both the insured and insurer decide on an acceptable value of the vehicle using market data, the vehicle's condition, and other factors when setting up an Agreed Value policy.

Since there is no depreciation factor in settling claims of Agreed Value policies, the settlement will include all applicable taxes and fees associated with the claim in total loss cases. Because of the set value, the insured and their agent will need to adjust the policy limits manually should the car's value change.

Standard Auto Insurance versus Collector Car Insurance.

Market value and factory-installed accessories determine the standard auto insurance claims. Unfortunately, that approach to settling insurable losses doesn't work for classic car collectors who invest substantial time and money into restoring their vehicles. For them, it's crucial to have the protection of agreed value coverage in the case of a total loss settlement.

Some specialty collector auto policies offer typical daily-use auto insurance with stated value coverage. Essentially, such stated value policies form actual cash value coverage with a maximum limit. For example, the insurance company pays claims based on the indicated market value of the vehicle after a loss. So, If the vehicle's market value has dropped after purchasing the coverage, then the payout is based on the lower dollar amount.

Considerations for Collector Car Insurance Programs.

If you have clients or prospects who collect classic cars, that's a good situation because of their favorable demographics. You’ll want to court them for their other insurance needs. That means it’s usually advantageous to work with a broker who can package additional coverages.

Another significant benefit of classic car insurance policies is the agents, adjusters, service reps, and others usually are familiar with the intricacies of collector car insurance programs. Because they're specialists in insuring rare and antique cars, they can give your clients the best service and help when they need it.

Who Qualifies for Collector Car Insurance?

  • Someone who has had a driver's license for five years.
  • Excellent driving record with a maximum of one moving violation or one at-fault accident within the last three years with a maximum of two per household. Any DUI or reckless driving violations must be ten years or older.
  • Households must have at least one regular-use vehicle for each licensed driver, although some exceptions for full-time students and retired couples are possible.

What Kind of Cars Qualify for Classic Car Insurance?

Vehicles that have worth as collectible and show value through appreciation are eligible with these limitations that require the car is:

  • Driven only occasionally and never as a daily driver with a typical cap of 7,500 annual miles.
  • Never utilized in racing, including timed events, driver's education, or commercial purposes.
  • Stored in a locked, enclosed garage with the potential for alternate garaging options on a case-by-case basis.

Additional Insurance Coverages for Classic Car Collectors

There are other coverages specifically available for classic car insurance:

Roadside assistance: Although standard policies offer roadside assistance, they allow for towing the vehicle with a hook. Whereas towing a collector car requires a flatbed truck.

Increased replacement cost: Pays the difference in claims when the classic car's value rises past the agreed-upon value; this coverage will cover the difference.

Auto show medical reimbursement: Provides liability protection that pays medical and legal costs of a person injured while visiting the insured's space at a collector's car show or similar event.

Spare parts coverage: Pays to replace spare parts for collectible cars that are damaged or stolen stored while stored in a garage or during a classic car show.

Classic car insurance carriers can provide your clients with most standard types of car insurance, including liability, personal injury protection, uninsured motorist coverage, and comprehensive collision coverage.

Collector Car Insurance Costs (and what factors affect the price)

Collector car insurance typically covers unique, vintage, and classic vehicles at a lower price than a standard auto insurance plan. In some cases, the cost is substantially lower. Factors affecting the rates for collector car insurance include the vehicle’s type and condition, the purchase location, and the driver's age and driving record. Lowering the mileage limit for classic cars and storing them in a climate-controlled garage year-round are other ways to reduce insurance premiums.

Best Collector Car Insurance Programs

It's natural for agents to seek the best collector car insurance programs and coverage for their insured. We created the ProgramBusiness.com platform to make it easy for agents to connect with carriers, MGAs, wholesalers, and program administrators. Performing a search of the Program Business Market Directory for collector car insurance programs returns a listing for American Collectors Insurance. Its staff of knowledgeable Collector Car Insurance specialists is ready to help you design a comprehensive program to fully insure your client's needs for affordable specialty classic car coverage.

 

Read More

April 29, 2022

Real Estate Investor Insurance Programs, Costs & More

There are 2.5 million real estate investors in the US, according to Connected Investors. Types of investors range from multi-national corporations to local and private investment firms and affluent individuals. Some are flippers seeking quick profits, while others rent their properties to create long-term income and price appreciation.   

Real estate investing is in a heated growth market because of the high returns and relatively lower risk. Redfin reports real estate investors acquired a record 18% of the homes sold in the US during the third quarter of 2021. They snatched up more than 90,000 homes in Q3 2021, 10% more than Q2 and 80% over the previous year.  

The investment into real estate is substantial, with the average purchase price over $400,000. As a result, investors need a wide array of protection from potential disastrous losses. This guide to Real Estate Investor Insurance Programs details the most common policies.   

What is Real Estate Investor Insurance?  

Real Estate Investor Insurance is aptly named, although some refer to it as Landlord Insurance or Rental Property Insurance. Regardless of the name, it represents a package of policies that safeguard insurable risks that individual and corporate real estate investors, trusts, family offices, and property managers face while operating their businesses.   

Types of Real Estate Investor Insurance  

Real estate investors use insurance packages designed to work together to protect property owners and managers from many losses. Consequently, these losses could result from tenant claims and liability lawsuits.  

 The broad categories are property or hazard insurance and liability coverage. Find details on the range of coverages found in Real Estate Investor Insurance Programs below.   

Landlord Insurance  

Landlord Insurance combines protection from losses covered by three types of coverage, including property damage, liability, and loss of rental income.   

Property Damage aka Hazard & Fire Insurance 

Like a homeowners or dwelling insurance policy, landlord insurance protects from losses caused by fire, wind, hail, snow, and other covered perils that damage structures on the rental property. It also covers losses to personal property, including furniture, appliances, electronic equipment, and more. It does not protect renters' personal property. Therefore, it's important to review coverage for exclusions that might require additional coverage or policy endorsements, such as vandalism. Coastal properties have wind and other weather exclusions, so a thorough review of coverages for real estate investor insurance policies is imperative, especially in those affected areas.   

Liability Insurance  

Sometimes called General Liability, this policy covers accidents involving people on insured rental property. It covers tenants, guests, vendors, maintenance, and other visitors to the site. A typical General Liability policy protects from lawsuits for injuries claiming Bodily Injury caused by individuals not employed by the insured. Coverage includes paying medical bills for in and outpatient treatment and rehabilitation costs associated with the claim. In addition, Property Damage is a coverage feature that pays to replace or repair stolen and damaged property when the landlord is liable for the loss.   

Loss of Rental Income  

When a rental property during an insurable event suffers damage, the loss of rental income insurance pays for lost rental income. However, losses from natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes are not part of this package. Coverages for floods and earthquakes are available through separate policies. Keep in mind that in the current environment of fast escalating rental costs, loss of rental income pays out on the fair market value of the rental property. It means it will likely be less than what the landlord collects, especially in regions where the rents are escalating.  

Sewer/Water Line/Flood Insurance  

Many forms of damage from water, such as sewers, water lines, and floods, are excluded from standard Hazard Insurance policies. For example, flood damage and water line damages are distinct losses that require separate coverages specific to the peril.    

Flood Insurance 

Flood insurance protects property from damages from outside water entering the rental property, including structures and contents. The NFIP is a program run by the federal government. It controls the selling of flood insurance and distributes it through agents. Then, these agents package it into insurance coverages for real estate investors.    

Flood insurance helps pay for losses to a physical structure and the foundation of a rental property, including damage to HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems. Detached structures require a policy endorsement or individual coverage. Although payouts for primary residences use replacement cost coverage, rental property losses get settled using the actual cash value method. Coverage can include clothing, furniture, appliances, electronic devices, window coverings, freezers, and spoiled food. Fine art, expensive jewelry, currency, precious metals, stock certificates, and guns are usually excluded and require a policy endorsement.  

Exclusions to Flood Insurance include losses from moisture, mold, and mildew damage when owner neglect is the cause. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other self-propelled vehicles are exclusions. Likewise, flood insurance does not cover patios, gazebos, decks, fences, and pools. Also, flood insurance policies do not include living expenses.   

Water and Sewer Backup Coverage   

Standard hazard insurance policies found in Real Estate Investor Insurance Programs omit coverage for damage due to water and sewer backup events. Separate coverage is available to repair damage when water reverses course and backs into the rental unit due to a clogged drainage line.   

Tenant Rent Default Insurance  

Rent default coverage helps cover lost income when a tenant defaults on rental payments. The tenants' actions cause financial hardships because eviction and other procedures can take months for the property owner to regain control of the unit and more time to find a new tenant. The landlord's bills for the mortgage, maintenance, insurance, taxes, and other operating expenses never stop, making this coverage a must for most rental property owners.   

A typical policy will reimburse for up to six months of lost rent when tenants default on payments, get evicted, or skip out of the unit. Standard coverage extends only for three months of reimbursement when a court order, military deployment, or a sole tenant's death is the cause of the loss. Vacation, seasonal and short-term rentals do not qualify for this coverage, and neither do losses due to a tenant temporarily vacating an uninhabitable unit.   

Builder's Risk  

Builder's risk insurance is property coverage for buildings and structures under construction. It covers builders constructing new properties and commercial property owners who may have routine property appearance updates or elaborate renovation projects. In addition, it pays for monetary losses when unexpected insurable events occur during construction or remodeling.  

Workers' Comp Insurance  

Real estate investors that hire employees are subject to state laws that require them to carry Workers' Compensation Insurance. The policy helps pay an employee's medical bills and cover wages lost because they suffered a work-related injury or illness. Workers' compensation insurance will typically shield employers from legal actions taken by employees who get injured on the job.   

Umbrella Insurance  

Umbrella insurance extends the liability coverage that protects landlords and property owners from liability claims. It can range from claims brought by tenants, visitors, guests, and vendors for injuries and libel and slander claims. As the name implies, an umbrella policy extends the limits over the top of the insured's existing liability coverages.   

Real Estate Investor Insurance Costs (and what factors affect the price)  

Rental properties are at greater risk for damage and other insurance-related incidents, making them more expensive to insure. The variances in real estate values and types of rental operations make it impossible to name a typical cost for Hazard insurance. However, short-term rentals are usually higher because these renters typically have little interest in maintaining the property. In addition, the insured's claims history, creditworthiness, and other factors affect the premium.   

Some coverages fall into somewhat standard ranges. For example, the annual premium for Loss of Rental Income is about $300 per rental unit, and the cost of a typical flood insurance policy runs about $700 per year.   

Best Real Estate Investor Insurance Programs  

It's a complicated and time-consuming process to find the best Real Estate Investor Insurance Programs. That's why we developed the Program Business Market Directory. The goal is to make it easier for agents to connect with insurance carriers, MGAs, wholesalers, and program administrators.   

A quick search for "Real Estate Investor Insurance Programs" on the ProgramBusinsess.com market directory leads to top-notch programs like the one provided by RSG National Specialty Programs. Ryan Specialty was founded in 2010 to become the most trusted trading partner for specialty risk solutions and services that retail agents, brokers, and insurance carriers need. 

Read More