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Any additional coverage and/or extension of an existing coverage that meaningfully enhances the features and benefits of an existing excess, surplus, or specialty lines product or program. Disclaimer (please read)


Markel Programs

Markel Programs Expands Mobile Crane/Boom Truck Program

Richmond, VA, - Markel Programs announced today that it has expanded classes and coverages for its specialty Mobile Crane/Boom Truck program to offer new growth opportunities for producers and to effectively address the unique needs of this niche market.

In addition to mobile cranes, boom trucks, and concrete pump trucks, eligible classes now include steel erection, millwrights, and riggers. The program has been enhanced with flexible minimum premiums, employee benefits coverage, and a riggers limit of up to $1,000,000 in addition to the per occurrence limit, including storage and transit with a $250,000 loss of use limit, and other coverage benefits.

The program is available through a partnership with JC Stevens (JCS), a Norman-Spencer company, in all states except Delaware.

Megan Rose, Program Director at JCS, commented, "We anticipate this development to be of significant benefit for agency growth and likewise for their customers. We are constantly working to evolve our program and want to build on our producers' success by extending opportunities to grow with us through our expanding program offerings."

Frank Noyes, Executive Underwriter with Markel, stated, "Markel is proud to partner with JCS in expanding coverages for our small crane insureds. The JCS staff of professionals has consistently demonstrated their expertise in working with Markel to respond effectively to the needs of this specialized industry niche."

ABOUT JC STEVENS
With roots back to the 1960s, JC Stevens (JCS) was formed in 1993 and provides extensive experience as insurance program underwriters, managers, and administrators. The company has developed a strong base of over 200 brokers who identify companies with niche insurance needs. In 2005, JCS formed a separate entity, Underwriting Service Management Company, LLC, to be the program administrator, along with JCS, of the Markel small cranes program. In January, 2010, Norman-Spencer, a national provider of property and casualty insurance services to retail and wholesale, agents and consumer clients, acquired the operations of JCS.

For more information about JCS, visit www.jcstevensins.com

ABOUT NORMAN-SPENCER
Norman-Spencer Agency, Inc. is a leading provider of property and casualty insurance services to clients countrywide, and has been developing and administrating industry-specific programs since 1981. The agency provides comprehensive, competitive programs and general wholesale insurance services that address the insurance needs of selected niche markets and a dedicated distribution network of over 1,500 agents.

For more information about Norman-Spencer, visit www.norman-spencer.com

ABOUT MARKEL PROGRAMS
A division of Markel Corporation, Markel Programs develops partnerships with managing general agents to offer single-source, admitted and non-admitted programs for a specific class or line of business. Markel Corporation markets and underwrites specialty insurance products and programs to a variety of niche markets. In each of these markets, the Company seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value.

To learn more about Markel Programs, visit markelprograms.com


Rockwood Programs

ROCKWOOD ADDS GENERAL LIABILITY TO ITS LIFE AGENTS E&O PRODUCT

Rockwood Programs, Inc. has made substantial revisions to its Life/A&H Insurance Agent's E&O offering by embedding general liability coverage to the product. These coverage additions are being included at no cost to the policyholder. The changes will go into effect immediately. The general liability coverage enhancement will be available in all states except Illinois.

"Rockwood Programs has earned a reputation as being an innovator and pioneer in the professional liability insurance arena," says Glenn Clark, the agency's President. "Embedding meaningful levels of general liability coverage to our existing Life Agent's E&O offering demonstrates our continued commitment to providing leading edge products for our customers. No other market can match the unique combination of insurance coverages we can now provide."

"Our Life Agents E&O product now provides a separate $100,000 general liability limit," continues Glenn. "Coverage includes up to $100,000 in personal and adverting injury, $50,000 for damages to premises rented by the policyholder, and $5,000 in medical expense. Rockwood will also continue to provide up to $25,000 in Identity Theft protection. Both the general liability and Identity Theft coverages are provided at no cost to the insured.

"It is important to keep in mind that Rockwood has been a provider of Life Agent's E&O protection for over a decade. There are new 'players' in the market today who are NOT selling an agent their own policy but rather a certificate to a group policy with aggregate limits. In contrast, our policy is fully portable and helps agents maintain their retroactive dates. The agent's loss experience is not pooled with others and subject to an aggregate limit. We also have the flexibility to provide unique coverage and rating accommodations for sponsored/group programs."

The Rockwood Insurance Agent's E&O programs offer professional liability coverage for both Life/Accident & Health and Property & Casualty agents. Limits of up to $1 million per claim and $2 million in the aggregate are available. There are several different deductible options as well. Both programs are placed through Certain Underwriters at Lloyds.

Interested parties can learn more about this program as well as the other products and services offered by accessing Rockwood's website at www.rockwoodinsurance.com. The company can also be contacted directly by calling toll-free 800-558-8808. The fax number is 302-764-5477.

For additional information, contact Darryl McCallin - Vice President - at (800) 558 - 8808. E-mail address: darryl.mccallin@rockwoodinsurance.com


Rockwood Programs

ROCKWOOD REDUCES MINIMUM PREMIUMS FOR EPLI

Rockwood Programs, Inc. has reduced the minimum premiums applicable to its Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) product. Rates now start as low as $750 for limits of $250,000 per claim and $250,000 in the aggregate. Minimum premiums have been reduced on other liability limits as well. Certain eligibility parameters apply. The rating change is available on all new business and renewal accounts written after March 15, 2010.

"Rockwood has been a premier provider of Employment Practices Liability Insurance for over a decade," explains Glenn Clark, President of Rockwood Programs. "During our tenure in the marketplace, we have pioneered such product innovations as short form applications, on-line rating capabilities, and paperless compliance. The rating modifications we have recently implemented serve to further demonstrate our on-going commitment to this particular market segment."

"The recent decision to reduce our minimum premiums has had no effect on the quality of the EPLI product we offer," continues Glenn. "Our base policy form offers Wage & Hour protection, Defense Outside the Limit, and Third Party coverage for most risks. As an added benefit, we provide risk management/loss control assistance at no additional cost to our insureds."

"Not every risk fits the eligibility parameters of our EPLI program," adds Darryl McCallin, Rockwood's Operations Vice President. "In order to accommodate these unique submissions, we have secured appointments with several other insurance carriers. Maintaining these market relationships allows us to place virtually any EPLI risk we receive. All of Rockwood's carriers are rated "A" or better by A.M. Best."

The Rockwood Employment Practices Liability Insurance program offers defense and indemnity protection against claims arising from the employer/employee relationship. The policy shields employers - plus all current, former, and prospective employees, directors and officers, even the corporate entity - against a broad spectrum of employment-related claims. Multiple limit and deductible options are available. Rockwood is the national administrator for the EPLI program underwritten through Avemco Insurance Company.

Interested parties can learn more about this program as well as the other products and services offered by accessing Rockwood's website at www.rockwoodinsurance.com. The company can also be contacted directly by calling toll-free 800-558-8808. The fax number is 302-764-5477.

For additional information, contact Darryl McCalli, (800) 558 - 880 or E-mail address: darryl.mccallin@rockwoodinsurance.com


Synergy Professional Associates, Inc.

HARD TO PLACE LAWYERS MARKET PREPARES FOR INNCREASING SUBMISSIONS

KINNELON, NJ, - Synergy Professional Associates, Inc., a specialist managing underwriter offering competitive terms and quick turn around service for Hard to Place Lawyers in the USA on behalf of an Lloyd's Syndicates announces that Thomas Dattoli, MBA, AAI has joined the firm as a Manager - Professional Liability.

Ira Dawer, President t of Synergy Professional Associates, said, "I am taking calls e every day from brokers complaining that the standard markets for Lawyers Professional Liability are imposing stricter vetting rules as their underwriting results deteriorate. As a r result, we have seen a large increase in submissions."

Michele McCrohan Senior Vice President added, "I am very happy to add Tom to my team. With more than 20 years experience in professional liability Tom has hit the ground running allowing us to increase our capacity to underwrite hard to place lawyers without sacrificing service."

Tom will be responsible for:

  • Underwriting Synergy's Hard to Place Lawyers Professional Liability Program;
  • Underwriting Excess Lawyers Professional Liability;
  • Underwriting Synergy's Insurance Agents & Brokers Professional Liability Program for MGAs and Program Managers;
  • Developing new production channels including helping retailers and wholesalers access Synergy's Professional Liability Programs;
  • Helping Synergy find new strategic opportunities that fit the firm's business model.

Thomas Dattoli began his insurance career with the Continental Insurance Company in 1986. He has worked as a retail and wholesale broker, risk manager and national underwriting manager. Tom holds an MBA in insurance from St. John's University f/k/a The College of Insurance, a BS in Mathematics from Ramapo College of New Jersey and is an Accredited Advisor in Insurance.

When searching markets for an anxious prospect or customer; brokers need fast, reliable solutions. The Synergy Professional Associates team of experienced and knowledgeable professional liability underwriters are ready to assist any agent or broker. Check with Synergy first (or last) for fast answers on your initial evaluation.

SYNERGY PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATES, LLC, Ira Dawer, 1335 Kinnelon Rd, Kinnelon, NJ 07405, Phone (973) 995-0500, Fax (973) 995-0501


Target Markets

GEN. COLIN POWELL TO KEYNOTE TARGET MARKETS MID YEAR MEETING

Wilmington DE - General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.) will address The Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA) at their Mid Year Meeting April 12-14, 2010 in Baltimore, MD.

Drawing on examples garnered from his experience as a military, government and civic leader, and as an eyewitness to leadership in action, Gen. Powell will illustrate what it takes to be a great leader, and offer strategies for "taking charge" during times of historic change and challenging crises. He will demonstrate how to remain focused, take responsibility and work towards improving processes, organizations and people.

The keynote address by General Powell is sponsored by TMPAA members, Claims Administrator York Programs, and Law Firm Wilson Elser. Bill Kronenberg, TMPAA President, said, "One of our missions is to support and encourage the leadership abilities of our members in program business, and provide examples for the next generation of program business leaders. General Powell exemplifies many of the leadership qualities to which we aspire. We look forward to having him share his insights with our group".

In addition to General Powell's presentation, the TMPAA also plans to conduct special sessions with members such as "Social Media and Online Marketing", "Captive Development for Program Administrator E&O" among others. Decision makers from more than 50 insurance carriers will be meeting with Program Administrators to discuss program business opportunities.

Program Administrator / MGA's interested in learning more about the TMPAA, can visit the Association Website at www.targetmarkets.com or call (877) 347-5700. Meeting registration forms as well as an agenda for the event is available on the website.

York Programs can be found at www.yorkclaims.com ; Wilson Elser can be found at www.wilsonelser.com

For additional information, contact Ray Scotto, at (877) 347-5700; E-mail address: ray.scotto@targetmkts.com


Target Markets

Way named TMPAA Leadership 2.0 Chairperson

Wilmington DE - L. Byron Way, President and COO of Bunker Hill Insurance Agency, a national program underwriting specialty agency located in Texas, has been selected as Chairperson of the Target Markets Program Administrators Association's Leadership 2.0 group. The Leadership 2.0 group is comprised of Program Administrator and Carrier members under age 40.

"Target Markets is looking to cultivate the young talent in our Association to help keep program business a strong industry segment for many years to come," said Mr. Way. "Our plan is to hold unique networking and educational events at the Association's two annual meetings for members who are currently under 40. In addition to creating a network of young program specialists to explore program opportunities, we are interested in becoming influential as an advisory body for the TMPAA Board as they continue to build the Association."

William Kronenberg, TMPAA President said, "The Leadership 2.0 initiative is important to the Association to stay relevant, create the next generation of Program Business leaders, and utilize the energy and ideas produced by this group". The TMPAA Board is very happy to support their growth in any way possible. We have full confidence that Byron Way and his co-chairs, John Paulk lll (Britt/Paulk Insurance) and Brian Norman (Norman Spencer Insurance) will provide the leadership needed to energize our younger members."

The TMPAA Leadership 2.0 Group's next event is scheduled for Monday April 4th at the Associations Mid Year Meeting in Baltimore (April 12-14, 2010). The presentation, "Developing Your Idea Into a Profitable Program" will be provided by TMPAA Board Member, David Springer, President of NIP Programs.

Program Administrator / MGA's interested in learning more about the TMPAA, The Leadership 2.0 Group, or the TMPAA Mid year Meeting, can visit the Association Website at www.targetmarkets.com or call 877-347-5700. Meeting registration forms as well as an agenda for the event is available on the website.

For additional information, contact Ray Scotto at (877) 347 5700 E-mail address: ray.scotto@targetmkts.com


Victor O. Schinnerer & Company

Chevy Chase, MD - Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. announces a rate decrease and expanded coverage in the state of California for the Real Estate Errors & Omissions program.

Beginning April 1, 2010, the following rating changes take effect:

  • 20 percent rate decrease for firms with up to $1 million in revenues and /or fees
  • Up to 28 percent rate decrease for firms with $500,000 or less in revenues and/or fees
  • Minimum premium reduced to $800

In addition to the rate decrease, the policy has been expanded to include coverage for the sale of owned property and several new options for extended reporting periods are available.

Schinnerer's Real Estate E&O program is available to firms of all sizes. The program covers many types of real estate professionals including real estate brokers and agents, property managers, appraisers, auctioneers, leasing agents and mortgage brokers.

Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc. is one of the largest and most experienced underwriting managers of professional liability and specialty insurance programs in the world. Schinnerer now serves more than 55,000 insureds in various specialty industries through independent agents and brokers. Learn more about Schinnerer at www.Schinnerer.com.

For information: Schinnerer Mktg. Contact: Starr Crusenberry, Corp. Mktg. (301) 951-6904, Starr.N.Crusenberry@Schinnerer.com; Brian Cropp, AVP, (301) 961-9897, Brian.E.Cropp@Schinnerer.com


For Release: Immediate
Contact: Tyl Sadoff
Corporate Communications
610-538-2244
tsadoff@phlyins.com

Philadelphia Insurance Companies Joins CBS’
“Operation Brotherly Love Help for Haiti” Campaign

Bala Cynwyd, PA, January 17, 2010, Philadelphia Insurance Companies’ (PHLY) Chairman, President and CEO, Jamie Maguire presented the American Red Cross with a $50,000 donation on CBS’ “Operation Brotherly Love Help for Haiti” Campaign on Friday, January 15, 2010.

CBS local media stations in Philadelphia teamed up for a good cause to raise funds for the American Red Cross relief effort for Haitian Earthquake victims. The station and local volunteers staffed a 12 hour phone bank taking pledges for the Red Cross International Response Fund. The Delaware Valley community showed its vital support raising an unprecedented $574,690.

Philadelphia Insurance Companies immediately showed their compassion and support. “On behalf of 1,500 employees across the country, we are truly honored to be a part of Operation Brotherly Love.” said Jamie Maguire. “As part of our long-standing commitment to the community and disaster relief efforts, we will continue to match every dollar our employees donate to this devastating catastrophe.”

Tom Foley, CEO of the Southeastern Pennsylvania chapter of the American Red Cross, adds, “Philadelphia Insurance Companies is a family and company which understand the meaning of community. It will do a lot of good for the people suffering in Haiti.”

Philadelphia Insurance Companies, a member of the Tokio Marine Group, designs, markets, and underwrites commercial property/casualty and professional liability insurance products incorporating value added coverages and services for select industries. In operation since 1962, the Company, whose commercial lines insurance subsidiaries are rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company and AA- for counterparty credit and financial strength by Standard & Poor’s, is nationally recognized as a member of Ward's Top 50 and National Underwriter’s Top 100. The organization has 50 offices strategically located across the United States to provide superior service.

To locate the office nearest you or for more information, visit us on the web at www.phly.com. For more information on the American Red Cross, visit www.redcrossphilly.org


National Contractors Insurance Company, Inc

National Contractors Insurance Company, Inc. a Risk Retention Group, Announces Initial A.M. Best Rating of B+ (Good)

Bigfork, Montana - National Contractors Insurance Company, Inc., a Risk Retention Group ("NCIC") domiciled in Bigfork, Montana, has announced that A.M. Best has assigned NCIC an initial financial strength rating of B+ (Good), with a "stable" outlook.

In notifying NCIC of the B+ (Good) rating assignment, A.M. Best further stated that the ratings "reflect NCIC's adequate capitalization and experienced management team as well as its solid business plan, which is also weighed into the profitability metrics of the rating".

Douglas Rubino, President of NCIC, outlining his perspective on the A.M. Best's rating, responds: "We are pleased with receiving an initial rating of "B+ (Good)" from A.M. Best. Our B+ rating, which signifies NCIC's financial position in A.M. Best's "secure" category along with other highly rated carriers, is the result of years of careful management, responsible underwriting and fiscal conservatism overseen by the talented team of professionals I am fortunate to work with at NCIC."

Mr. Rubino added "We look forward to the news of our strong rating assignment being enthusiastically received by our highly valued risk retention group members and our superb network of independent agents and brokers."

NCIC exclusively serves those in the building profession, offering commercial general liability insurance coverage to builders and contractors in a large number of states through a network of independent insurance agents and brokers.

About NCIC
National Contractors Insurance Company, Inc., a Risk Retention Group ("NCIC"), domiciled in Montana, exclusively serves those in the building profession, offering commercial general liability insurance to builders and contractors in a large number of states through a network of independent insurance agents and brokers.

NCIC was founded by industry veterans with over 35 years experience in the construction field, initially to assist roofers having difficulty obtaining general liability coverage. Now in its 5th year, the firm's history of positive operating results, solid capitalization, geographic diversification and carefully selected eligible classes provides strength, expertise and stability to its members.

NCIC's mission is to provide a stable market with quality services, to utilize our group purchasing power to control costs, and to provide sound underwriting and risk management to our members.

For additional information, please visit our Web Site at www.4ncic.com or contact Alan Ring, Director of Sales & Marketing, at 714-612-8616 / aring@4ncic.com.

 


 
 

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