Texas insurers consider rate hikes to offset losses from disasters and theft

Texas has been hit hard by recent natural disasters. From the continuing drought that grips much of the southern and western parts of the state, to flooding from Louisiana hurricanes further to the east, the insurance industry has taken a major financial blow. With insurance reserves falling, many insurers in central Texas are beginning to consider raising rates in order to offset losses. Disasters may not be the only factor contributing to rate increases, however, as there has been an increase in thefts last year. Insurers are beginning to feel…

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Statewide brings contractor insurance services into Washington state

Leading general liability insurance, commercial vehicle coverage, workers compensation and bonds provider for contractors, Statewide Insurance Brokers, has announced that it has broadened its contractor insurance offerings to include Washington State. The insurer has been providing these products to thousands of contractors of all forms from painters to electricians, since 1995. Today, Statewide Insurance is operating in seven states – Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Minnesota, and California – but has plans for widening. According to one of the company’s senior underwriters, Lana Matar, demand is what is fueling their…

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Current slab claim process under review in Texas

Texas lawmakers approved revisions to the state’s windstorm fund this week. The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, a pseudo-government agency in charge of providing insurance coverage to coastal properties prone to hurricane damage, has been the subject of debate amongst legislators for some time now. Senate approved reform will address several issues, including new methods to determine whether damage is caused by wind or water. The reform bill, House Bill 272, was passed unanimously by the Senate. One of the issues to be addressed by the system reform is how the…

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Texas Department of Insurance receives long awaited extension

Lawmakers in Texas voted to extend the longevity of the state’s Department of Insurance. The department will also enjoy more authority over the insurance industry and will be able to impose stricter penalties when companies challenge the agency’s rate assertions and lose. The relevance of the Department had been debated for some time before a decision was reached Monday. Many legislators say that the ruling was long overdue. According to Texas law, state agencies must be evaluated for effectiveness every 12 years. Legislators determine whether these agencies provide a necessary…

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