Loss Runs Explained
Insurance loss runs are reports that detail insurance claims a person or business has had during their policy period. They’re used both as an update for the insured and as an underwriting tool for insurance companies to decide whether to continue writing insurance for the client or not. Insurance companies also use them to assess the risk level of a potential new client.
Where Can I Get My Loss Runs?
Use this Word template to request your Loss Runs
Insurance carriers create and maintain loss run reports in their computer systems. They can be generated at any time upon request.
Sometimes insureds request their loss runs because they want an update on their recent claims history. This is especially true of companies who want to know how their employees’ workers compensation claims are progressing. But more frequently, policy holders need their loss runs in order to shop their insurance with another agent or carrier.
In either case, the preferred method for obtaining loss run reports is to request them from the insurance agent who will be shopping your insurance coverage for you. Sending a loss run request letter or email directly to your insurance company will only loop you right back to your insurance agent.
What’s Contained In A Loss Run Report?
- Date of the loss
- Date the claim was reported
- Name of the claimant
- Synopsis of what happened
- Amount paid to date
- Reserve amount that has been set aside
- Whether the claim is closed or still open
Show me what Loss Runs look like.
Loss runs begin by giving basic information about the policy holder like their name, address and effective dates of their policies. They typically contain loss information for the current year and the last 3 to 5 years.
Receiving Your Loss Runs Promptly
The most common point of frustration regarding loss runs is that it can take longer than expected. You see, once you request your loss runs, your insurance agent and carrier know you may be about to move your policies, and they often delay sending them to you in order to make it harder for you to get new quotes.
But there are rules each state’s insurance commissioners office has about how long insurance companies have to release your loss runs. Each state has different laws, but the most common time frame is 10 days. After that, you may file a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioners office if you haven’t received them.
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Conclusion
Whether you want to shop around for better insurance or you just want an update on your recent claims history, you’ll need to obtain a copy of your loss runs. And now you know a little more about what they contain, where to get them, and the rules that govern how quickly you are entitled to receive them.
If you have any further questions browse through our blogs, or connect with us! We believe a good insurance agency helps you succeed by answering your questions and providing the best insurance coverage for a price you can afford. If you learned something from reading this article comment below or let us know how we could further answer your questions.