The latest information from MarketScout indicates the property casualty insurance market remains soft, with prices continuing to fall in October. This comes as somewhat of a surprise as industry analysts predicted a hardening (price increases) of the market after the disastrous hurricane season.
According to Insurance Journal;
“In October 2005, the composite rate for all lines of property and casualty coverage was down 4%, a slight market correction from the preceding month but still a noticeable composite premium reduction from the 2% increase in October 2004. The total market differential for the last 12 months has been 8%, with a gradual market softening from rate increases of 2% in October 2004 to a rate decrease of 6% in August 2005.
After Hurricanes Rita, Katrina and Wilma hit the U.S. mainland, the market began a measured correcting pace as premium reductions have subsided, particularly in property business. The market appears to be headed towards an overall rate increase sometime in the summer of 2006.”
There are likely two main factors delaying the impact of the hurricanes on premiums and coverage. First, many renewals had already been negotiated and agreed upon, therefore the rates were set before the storms hit. Second, primary insurance rates are driven in part by reinsurance rates, coverage limitations, and treaty arrangements. Most of the primary insurer – reinsurer contracts have yet to be renegotiated; when they are you can rest assured reinsurance rates will increase substantially, driving up the cost of insurance to the consumer.
Of interest to many readers, workers comp rates were down 6% year over year in October. However, these rate decreases were driven in large part by significant reforms in California and Florida; rates in most other states did not drop nearly as much as those two bellwether jurisdictions. Of note, workers compensation rates in California have dropped 26.7% since imposition of the reforms at the beginning of this year.
What does this mean for you?
Renew now while you can, before the impact is felt by renewed reinsurance arrangements. As it is, if you have yet to sign a deal, it is very likely too late.
Nov
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