Commercial Lines

“For years, community associations were stuck in one of the hardest insurance markets we’ve ever seen,” says independent agent Trey Griffy. “Premiums climbed, carriers pulled out and deductibles got pushed higher across the board.”

While replacement valuation gaps are a prominent concern for builders risk clients, several other gaps and misconceptions can leave clients vulnerable to significant financial burdens.

In a market with such high selectivity, it falls on the prospective insured to show why it would be a good risk. Independent insurance agencies can help insureds implement approaches that demonstrate insurability and manage costs.  

While the builders risk insurance sector continues to remain profitable, economic and environmental uncertainties within the construction industry are forcing builders and insurers to rethink their strategies.

The program targets businesses with annual receipts of up to $5 million across 80 different class codes in the construction segment, including residential home builders and commercial builders.

By instructing clients on four proactive safety procedures, insurance agents have the unique opportunity to help their clients prevent a liability claim from ever occurring and to defend against claims that are made.

Here are five ways agents and underwriters can work together to build a niche that’s profitable and sustainable.

A commercial insured’s showroom was flooded after a demolition contractor broke a water line while demolishing an adjacent building.

“The out‑of‑pocket maximums keep climbing, and the cost follows in lockstep,” said independent agent Matt Brown. “Even with a large population receiving tax credits on the individual market, the remaining premiums remain a burden for most.”