Carrier appetite
Appetite is the only question that matters first. Price is irrelevant from a carrier that will decline the risk.
Find a carrierFind carriers with a stated appetite for the class you are placing.
Admitted versus surplus lines availability varies significantly by state.
AM Best ratings and carrier size, so you can match the risk to the balance sheet.
Whether the carrier appoints retail agents directly or works through wholesalers.
Which paper you place on changes the protections the insured has.
| Factor | Admitted carrier | Surplus lines carrier |
|---|---|---|
| State rate and form filing | Required | Not required |
| Guaranty fund protection | Yes | No |
| Can decline a risk | Yes, but subject to state rules | Broadly yes |
| Premium tax | Paid by carrier | Usually paid by the insured |
| Best for | Standard classes | Hard-to-place and specialty classes |
Check the published appetite first. If the class is not listed, ask before submitting rather than after a decline.
It is an independent opinion of the carrier's ability to meet its obligations. A rating below A- is worth a closer look.
Some do, many do not. Carriers that work exclusively through wholesalers will not appoint you regardless of production.
That the class of business appears in the carrier's published appetite
That the state is on the carrier's approved list
That the loss history falls inside the carrier's tolerance
That you hold the appointment the carrier requires
Tell us the class and state and we will point you at the carriers with appetite.
