Monday, November 9, 2009

A Homeowner's level of insurance. Does that protect a company adequately?

Recently, I was asked by an international client to review their insurance coverages. They contract for products in an international market. As such, they have numerous product and general exposures for which adequate limits are a must.
When I reviewed the limits for this company, I found I had better limits of coverage for my own auto and homeowners insurance on my own property! Some companies want to skimp on any excess liability insurance in these hard times. However, one good product recall with hundreds of small items could bankrupt a company. A baby swallowing one of those small gadgets may cost you far in excess of any premium you would pay to adequately cover yourself.
Middle market companies often have no internal risk manager and must thus rely on a small local or regional broker. I am certain the broker for this company probably repeatedly warned this CEO his coverage was inadequate. However, until the CEO fully understands the ramifications (mostly to his own pocketbook!), he isn't going to receive the message.
Remember, eyes glaze over on CEO's when talking insurance. Be sure he/she understands the Mercedes he/she is driving, may be at risk (as well as the financial stability of the rest of the company, when very low limits are carried.