Why is understanding claims history important for surplus lines pricing?

Understanding claims history is crucial for pricing in surplus lines because it directly influences how risk is assessed and how premiums are set. Claims history provides valuable insights into the likelihood of future claims based on past incidents. Insurers analyze this information to determine the level of risk associated with a particular client or situation.

When a broker has access to comprehensive claims history, they can more accurately evaluate the risk profile of the insured. This assessment helps in deciding how much coverage is needed and what premium to charge. A robust claims history might reveal patterns that suggest a higher risk, prompting the insurer to increase the premium to cover potential future losses. Conversely, a clean claims history might lead to lower premiums.

By using claims history effectively, brokers can help ensure that they are offering competitive yet adequate pricing, reflecting the actual risk involved. This understanding is critical not only for maintaining profitability for the insurers but also for ensuring that clients are paying fair prices for their coverage, based on their risk level.