Which underlying policies should we review?
Bring general liability, product liability, commercial auto, and employers liability information where applicable. Confirm that the required policies, insured entities, limits, and dates align with the proposed layer. Professional liability, cyber, and management liability usually need their own consideration when additional limits are wanted. The underlying schedule determines what the umbrella or excess layer sits above; a list of policy names is not enough.
How should we choose an additional limit?
Review customer and retailer requirements, your products, locations, contractual obligations, and the consequences of a serious liability allegation. Discuss the risks the business is retaining and whether multiple layers are appropriate. A contractually required limit is a starting point for the review. There is no single limit that establishes adequate protection for every company, and availability depends on the business and the proposed program.
Check alignment across the program
Review attachment points, aggregate limits, defense-cost treatment, additional insured provisions, and policy periods. Ask what happens if underlying limits have been reduced by other claims or if an underlying policy changes midterm. Sharing new products, acquisitions, and significant operations changes helps keep the layer structure relevant. Clarify who must be notified of a claim and when, including any separate notice requirement for excess insurers.
Does a certificate establish the required coverage?
A certificate summarizes insurance and does not itself amend a policy. Share the complete contractual requirement when a customer requests higher limits or specific wording. Compare those requirements with the actual primary and excess forms and endorsements. If a contract mentions worldwide activities, particular products, or additional insured status, those details should be considered before a certificate is issued.
A practical scenario to discuss
A retailer may require liability limits above those carried in your existing product program. Before simply buying another layer, review whether the proposed insurer accepts the primary policy, product activities, and required endorsements. Discuss how claims would move through the program and where defense expenses sit. This is a program-design example, not a promise that a retailer requirement or future allegation will be covered.
How can Cory help with the review?
Provide your current liability policies, requested limit, renewal date, and a plain description of what changed. Cory can discuss the underlying program and explore additional-limit options that reflect your products and operations. Where several insurers participate, clarity around the structure matters. Begin with your business website and timing; complete policy documents and contracts can follow through the agreed review process.
Related coverage guides
A customer wants higher liability limits?
Share the required limits, the underlying policies, and the contract deadline. Cory will follow up to discuss the business and the information needed for the next step.
Request an insurance review with Cory or call 845-721-0744.
Preparing for the conversation? Download the business insurance review checklist (PDF). No signup required.
Practical reading before your next decision
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Submitting an inquiry does not bind, amend, or cancel coverage. Coverage availability and terms depend on underwriting and the policy issued.
Further reading: Coverage background.
