In the vast expanse of the American insurance industry, a storm is brewing. Winds of inflation and the increasing ferocity of weather events are sending shockwaves through the insurance world, particularly in the realm of property insurance. Nowhere is this more evident than in Colorado, a state grappling with the dual onslaught of an active hail season and the looming specter of wildfires. In this blog, we delve into the challenges that have besieged the property insurance sector in Colorado, explore the ripple effects of these changes, and shed light on the measures taken by insurers to weather the storm.
The Perfect Hailstorm
Colorado’s 2023 hail season has been nothing short of spectacular, with 990 instances of severe hail measuring at least 1” in diameter. The pounding of hail has been ceaseless, with over 70 days of large hail reports – a level of intensity not witnessed since 2006. Adding to the spectacle, there have been 13 reports of colossal 4” hailstones. The storms are leaving their mark, impacting the financial health of the property insurance sector in the state.
A Limited Carrier Market Faces the Gale
Historically, Colorado has navigated its insurance landscape as a limited carrier market, where independent agents had access to a modest 4-5 preferred carriers. However, this landscape has become increasingly intricate, with the current year witnessing a flurry of aggressive non-rate measures adopted by carriers, further narrowing the competitive field. The outcome has been a deliberate effort by carriers to curtail their exposure by putting the brakes on new business growth.
Tightening the Reins: New Underwriting Realities
In response to the changing climate – both meteorologically and economically – carriers have enacted more stringent underwriting criteria. This entails a meticulous examination of factors like the age of roofs, prior loss history, and proximity to wildfire-prone zones. These criteria, coupled with substantial premium hikes, reflect a seismic shift in how insurers evaluate risk. Perhaps the most notable transformation is the requirement by most carriers for new property policies to be bundled with a supporting auto insurance policy, creating a new paradigm in the industry.
Our Unwavering Commitment
Amidst this storm of change, it’s important to remember that our commitment to you remains steadfast. We understand the significance of providing competitive home insurance rates and comprehensive coverage to our valued clients. While the landscape shifts and the challenges mount, rest assured that our dedication to delivering the exceptional service you’ve come to expect stands resolute.
As we navigate these turbulent times, we extend our gratitude for your unwavering partnership and patience. The challenges posed by inflation and erratic weather patterns are formidable, but together, we can weather this storm. In the heart of Colorado’s property insurance sector, change is the only constant, and as the winds of transformation blow, we remain anchored in our promise to safeguard your interests and provide you with the security you deserve.
