P C UPDATES
2025
E&S MARKET OVERVIEW
Admitted carriers are reentering select sectors and competing more aggressively for new business.
Still, the E&S market remains critical— especially in CAT-prone areas, distressed sectors like Habitational and Liquor Liability, and for harder-to-place Personal risks.
PFAS exposure, cyberattacks, and severe weather events are reshaping risk profiles across the board.
“Tailored coverages are increasingly common in all lines with firm underwriting and bespoke Terms and Conditions common across all sectors throughout North America.”
Paul G. Smith Group
Senior Vice
President H.W. Kaufman Group, New York, NY
CAPACITY RATES
Rates have stabilized or softened in several sectors, with many Personal Insurance clients seeing flat renewals. However, one severe storm or other CAT event could immediately reverse recent softening. Some challenging areas—such as Commercial Auto, Liquor Liability, and Habitational—remain firm.
Market-wide capacity has improved. However, high-risk sectors may still require layered placements or non-admitted markets to secure limits. More Property aggregate is now available in states like Florida, Louisiana, and the Carolinas—but challenges remain in CAT zones.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Carriers are applying stricter terms, leveraging AI, satellite data, and real-time analytics.
Exclusions tied to Assault & Battery, firearms, and public protest exposures are more common.
Customized terms are the norm, especially for Wildfire and Flood risks.
LONDON MARKET
The London Property insurance market is showing signs of stabilization. Underwriters are beginning to ease underwriting guidelines, particularly around COPE requirements, and deductible structures. Excess Casualty remains tight—especially for sectors exposed to nuclear and thermonuclear verdicts. London markets are filling gaps left by withdrawing U.S.-admitted insurers, particularly in high-hazard classes such as Auto, Cannabis, and Cyber.
E&S MARKET OUTLOOK
The need for flexible, tailored coverage continues to grow—especially in areas excluded by admitted carriers. Burns & Wilcox delivers solutions through:
Deep underwriting expertise
Exclusive products
Strong carrier relationships
Complete, strategic submissions
