With Hurricane Milton on its way and set to be the second major storm to strike the region in two weeks, we want to let you know that we’re monitoring the path. Here are helpful tips to help prepare before it makes landfall:

We encourage you to track the storm’s latest location and keep up to date by following The Weather Channel.

In addition, below is a reminder of some basic precautionary measures you and your family can take:

• Make sure your mobile devices (phone, iPad, hot spot, etc.) and backup battery packs are fully charged. Make sure that you grab the charging cables as well if you are evacuating in preparation.

• Know your evacuation route. Cities at risk of a hurricane have emergency evacuation plans that take members of the community to the safest inland town. Ensure you and your family members know how to get to the appropriate route and take note of alternate routes that may be available if storm debris prevents you from getting to the evacuation highway safely.
• Protect your home from wind and debris. Move all plants, outdoor furniture, and any other free-standing items indoors to a garage or basement.
• Move vehicles to higher ground. If you need to evacuate, move left-behind vehicles to higher ground or a parking garage if you have access, not under trees or power lines.
• Gather important documents in one place. Store important documents, such as legal papers, birth certificates, marriage licenses, financial papers, and insurance policy information, in a waterproof, portable safe that is easy to transport in an evacuation.
• Refill your prescriptions. You can refill prescription medications in advance for at least a 30-day supply if you live in a county under a hurricane warning by the NWS, under a State of Emergency issued by the Governor, or one with an activated emergency operations center.
• Don’t forget tornadoes. Tornadoes can be a hurricane threat, especially if you live inland. Read over what to do in a tornado to prepare for the fast-forming and unpredictable storms.

We hope this overview proves helpful–and that you and your family remain safe and sound amid the storm. But if you do you need help with a claim or have any questions after the storm hits, do not hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help.

Ligonier Ice Fest 2026 was a success!

Simpson & McCrady was honored to be a sponsor, and one of our very own carved a sculpture for the event. We look forward to this event every year and can’t wait to see the spectacular creations next year!

Why successful and high net worth individuals and families deserve more than a 1-800 number.

You’re busy. You juggle multiple calendars. You run a business (or two). You travel (a lot). You have a booked schedule with patients in your waiting room.

You have your wealth manager, estate planning attorney, and/or your accountant all in your contact list and know them on a first name basis so you can get quick and to-the-point answers. Shouldn’t your risk management and insurance team be the same?

You deserve an insurance advisor you can actually call.
Request a confidential consultation with a Simpson | McCrady advisor to discuss your current coverage and risk exposures.

Click Here and Request a Consultation

In an evolving agent and advisory landscape, it is becoming more frequent that we have someone come to us describing their previous agency experience with a degradation of service over the years or, in some cases, a complete lack thereof. They’re given a 1-800 number to make policy changes or to call when something goes wrong and they need to file a claim. The agent can’t provide the increased liability limits that they need to protect their net worth or identity and cyber options to protect against an attack. They can’t help with the new secondary home out of state, high end vehicles, growing fine art collection, or provide proper guidance on the increased risks of an in ground pool, in home domestic staff, snow mobiles, ATVs or high performance watercrafts. They lack the sophistication to handle complex risks.

“I don’t even know who my agent is.” This is a phrase we hear more often than not when we speak to someone looking for a change and looking for a better experience.

If your current insurance experience feels impersonal or transactional, it may be time for a different approach.

Schedule a Private a Consultation

We are a boutique firm that specializes in helping successful families and individuals prepare for the “what if’s” in life. We help during stressful times when something goes wrong and guidance or a helping hand is needed. We are a fiercely independent agency that benefits from being small and nimble to pivot and adapt to our client’s needs as they evolve. There is no 1-800 number with us.

At Simpson | McCrady, every client works directly with a dedicated advisory team — not a call center.

Speak with a Trusted Advisor

We represent multiple high net worth and affluent insurance companies so our clients know that they’re getting what’s best for their unique situation and a risk management plan to buffer them from what can be avoided or mitigated up front.

Every client that we serve has a dedicated team in house. We assist with the day to day things like purchasing or selling a vehicle, a new piece of jewelry or piece of artwork. We also assist with more complex discussions like a significant fire loss or automobile accident, artwork or collector vehicles in transit internationally, the purchase of a secondary home in a different state or a significant home renovation. We also address the different risk management discussions that should take place around these topics, the excitement (and anxiety) about a daughter or son getting their driver’s license or heading off to college and what the parents can do to protect them, the unfortunate event of a divorce, or a death in the family and assets that are being transferred to the next generation.

Complex lives require thoughtful risk planning.

Request a Risk & Coverage Review

Our team members are constantly seeking ways to better equip themselves for these evolving conversations with continuing education and earning additional specialty designations. We have numerous team members holding designations for CISR, CIC, CPRIA and CAPI, to name a few, and the list is still growing. Our office is also a proud member of the Private Risk Management Association (PRMA) which is recognized as the forum and voice of the high net-worth private risk and insurance management niche.

If your current insurance relationship feels impersonal — or you’re unsure whether your coverage truly reflects your lifestyle and assets — our advisors are here to help.

If you believe you need a step up from the norm, reach out to discuss our process and how we help clients protect tomorrow, today.

Request a Private Consultation,

call us directly at 412-261-2222, or email us at info@simpson-mccrady.com.

For more resources and information about Simpson | McCrady, check out our Facebook and LinkedIn pages.

It is difficult to pick up a newspaper and not see a headline story related to one disaster or another: from COVID-19 and pandemic related issues to weather related disasters like wildfires, flooding, severe hail storms, tornadoes, or hurricanes; from civil unrest and cyber-attacks to tectonic shifts in the workplace. All of these factors have heavily impacted the insurance industry with an increase in claims frequency and severity.

A few key findings:

• From 2001 to 2018 the number of major weather-related events has increased by 85%[1].
• To highlight 2020 alone:
  • It was the second warmest year on record with 2019 right behind it causing significant shifts in weather related issues[2].
  • There were seven billion-dollar tropical cyclones which is the most in one year since NOAA started tracking in 1980. The combined cost of these systems was approximately $40.1 billion[3].
  • 5 of the 6 largest wildfires in CA occurred[4].
  • There were 22 weather and climate disasters. Each exceeded $1 billion in damages, for a grand total of $95 billion[5].
• Material costs have increased across the board in the past ten years and the pandemic has only worsened the situation with supply chain issues and shortages[6].
• Labor costs are up – and that is when you can find an available contractor[7].
• Technology has increased the cost of replacing household appliances and vehicle systems[8].

In Pennsylvania, we have seen a significant increase in the number of severe weather-related claims from hail, snow, wind, and rain storms and flooding.

There has also been a significant increase in claims related to older plumbing systems and/or more complex plumbing systems due to an increased number of conveniences such as multiple bathrooms on each floor, wet bars, kitchenettes, and laundry rooms on upper levels, among other things. This creates more room for errors, leaking pipes, and burst frozen pipes during the colder months. The average cost of a non-weather water loss in our niche market is over $60,000. When you include the actual cost of the damage to your home and belongings, bringing in hygienists, rebuilding to code, and time spent out of your home while repairs are made, these figures can add up very quickly.

There has also been a significant increase in demand for labor and materials. With the pandemic, disruptions in the supply chain have caused significant delays and driven up the cost of repairs and replacements, and pushed out project completion dates[9].

As a result of these trends and factors, carriers have pulled out altogether or reduced capacity in severely impacted states such as CA and FL[10]. Many carriers have been forced to take rate and/or restructure their credit system in order to avoid pulling out of certain market places altogether[11].  Many will reward clients who install risk mitigation features such as a water leak detection shutoff device and are taking proactive measures to keep their home systems up to date. Increasing your deductibles and paying in full can also provide advantages to you annually.

With delays in delivery of mail through the USPS[12], we urge clients to consider making payments electronically or setting up their accounts for automatic payment through EFT and to also take proactive measures to improve their cyber posture[13] to safeguard against the increase in cyber-attacks.

The pandemic has brought additional shifts in our daily lives as we have all been searching for our silver linings and what we want or need right now. Many clients have bought secondary homes or moved to their secondary home while leaving their main home empty or rented out. Some have moved out of more urban areas into more suburban or rural areas or to a different, more affordable urban area. Others that have remained in their primary home or condo have done renovations to enhance their living space. Many have refinanced their mortgages.

If any of these have happened or are on the horizon for you, please reach out so we can discuss. These are all points where we will want to provide risk management guidance, arm you with information you should consider in the decision-making process and recalibrate your program along the way.

We are here for you to help in protecting tomorrow, today.

Sources:

[1] https://www.chubb.com/content/dam/aem-chubb-global/amc/pdf/Market%20Trends%202021%20Key%20Facts.pdf

[2] https://www.noaa.gov/news/2020-was-earth-s-2nd-hottest-year-just-behind-2016

[3] https://www.noaa.gov/stories/record-number-of-billion-dollar-disasters-struck-us-in-2020

[4] https://www.noaa.gov/stories/record-number-of-billion-dollar-disasters-struck-us-in-2020

[5] https://www.noaa.gov/stories/record-number-of-billion-dollar-disasters-struck-us-in-2020

[6] https://www.chubb.com/content/dam/aem-chubb-global/amc/pdf/Market%20Trends%202021%20Key%20Facts.pdf

[7] Chubb.com

[8] https://www.chubb.com/content/dam/aem-chubb-global/amc/pdf/Market%20Trends%202021%20Key%20Facts.pdf

[9] https://www.inquirer.com/real-estate/housing/new-home-construction-single-family-builders-pennsylvania-20210224.html & https://www.inquirer.com/real-estate/housing/lumber-prices-home-construction-20210128.html

[10] https://www.marketplace.org/2020/08/31/insurance-increasingly-unaffordable-as-climate-change-brings-more-disasters/

[11] https://www.forbes.com/advisor/homeowners-insurance/home-insurance-outlook-2021/

[12] https://about.usps.com/newsroom/service-alerts/

[13] https://simpsonmccrady.com/what-to-know-about-cybersecurity/

Tropical Storm Nicole is on track to strengthen into a Category 1 before it hits Florida on Thursday, November 9, and will be the first hurricane to hit in November in nearly 40 years.

For our clients and colleagues in its path, please ensure that you adequately prepare for any impacts from Hurricane Nicole. We encourage you to track the storm’s latest location and keep up to date by following The Weather Channel.

In addition, below is a reminder of some basic precautionary measures you and your family can take:

• Make sure your mobile devices (phone, iPad, hot spot, etc.) and backup battery packs are fully charged. Make sure that you grab the charging cables as well if you are evacuating in preparation.

• Know your evacuation route. Cities at risk of a hurricane have emergency evacuation plans that take members of the community to the safest inland town. Ensure you and your family members know how to get to the appropriate route and take note of alternate routes that may be available if storm debris prevents you from getting to the evacuation highway safely.
• Protect your home from wind and debris. Move all plants, outdoor furniture, and any other free-standing items indoors to a garage or basement.
• Move vehicles to higher ground. If you need to evacuate, move left-behind vehicles to higher ground or a parking garage if you have access, not under trees or power lines.
• Gather important documents in one place. Store important documents, such as legal papers, birth certificates, marriage licenses, financial papers, and insurance policy information, in a waterproof, portable safe that is easy to transport in an evacuation.
• Refill your prescriptions. You can refill prescription medications in advance for at least a 30-day supply if you live in a county under a hurricane warning by the NWS, under a State of Emergency issued by the Governor, or one with an activated emergency operations center.
• Don’t forget tornadoes. Tornadoes can be a hurricane threat, especially if you live inland. Read over what to do in a tornado to prepare for the fast-forming and unpredictable storms.

We hope this overview proves helpful–and that you and your family remain safe and sound amid the storm. But if you do you need help with a claim or have any questions after the storm hits, do not hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help.

Great tips on getting your homes prepped for the dropping temperatures!

Click here to read more.

Does your family have a code word? This is a great tip to keep your family safe and out of harm’s way. All the more reason that emergency planning can be a valuable tool to share with your loved ones.

Read about a recent case where the family code word saved a girl’s life.

Distracted driving is not a new subject but here is another reason to pay attention on the road:

This UPS driver is helping to bring awareness for others when driving through residential neighborhoods.

Traveling abroad this holiday season? Click here for valuable safety tips to know about before you head to the airport.

Interesting trends in collectibles. #collectibles #riskmanagement #protectingtomorrowtoday

There are many factors that go into how we advise our clients and risk management is at the forefront. If we can help to prevent something from happening in the first place, it’s worth the conversation so you can avoid the headache of having contractors in your home making repairs and inconveniencing your day to day when it wasn’t planned. We want to ensure that you have the necessary tools and knowledge to protect your valuable assets. Some claims are simply accidents and are unavoidable. Check out some risk management tips from our Director of Private Client Services and how she put some of them into action after her family experienced a significant house fire. In addition, we’re listing an overview of top risk management tips that you can implement to safeguard your property and belongings.

Water Leak Detection Shutoff Device

Installing a water leak detection shutoff device can help you detect and prevent potential water damage. This device automatically shuts off the water supply when a leak is detected, minimizing the risk of costly repairs.

Central Station Burglar and Fire Alarms

Investing in a central station burglar and fire alarm system provides round-the-clock monitoring and immediate response in case of emergencies. This added layer of security can significantly reduce the risk of theft and fire damage.

Steel Braided Hoses and Metal Couplings

Upgrading your washing machine and toilet hoses to steel braided ones with metal couplings can prevent water leaks and potential flooding. These durable hoses are less prone to wear and tear, offering enhanced protection.

Backup Generator

A backup generator can be a lifesaver during power outages. It ensures that essential appliances and systems, such as refrigeration, heating, and medical equipment, continue to function, minimizing disruptions and potential damages.

Annual Home Checklists

Regular home maintenance is crucial for risk management. We recommend following a comprehensive annual home checklist that includes tasks such as inspecting the roof, cleaning gutters, testing smoke detectors, and checking for any potential hazards.

By implementing these risk management tactics, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents, damages, and losses. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to protecting your home and belongings.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team. We are here to help you make informed decisions and ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs.

No matter where you live, seasonal threats are present. With summer thunderstorms dropping unprecedented amounts of water, hurricane threats along the coast and wildfires out west, we’re here to provide meaningful tips to help.

We’ve posted a lot about water over the last few years as we’ve seen significant rainstorms that have caused damage to neighborhoods and homes and it is not just in high risk flood zone areas.

Before a Flood 1

• Know the terms. Know the difference between a Flood Watch, meaning flooding is possible, and a Flood Warning, which means flooding is occurring or will occur soon. This will help you take necessary steps.
• Maintain an emergency supply kit that will sustain you and your family for a 72-hour period. This kit should include flashlights, a portable radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, cash, blankets, clothing and toiletries.
• Keep all important papers such as legal papers, birth certificates, marriage license, financial papers, and insurance policy information in a safety deposit box, or fireproof and waterproof box on an upper floor inside the home.
• Have an evacuation plan. Flash flooding can occur quickly. Know where you and your family will go. If you have pets, plan for their evacuation as well.
• Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.

Check out some of our Insights archives for additional resources surrounding flood damage prevention and insurance options to protect your home and valuables.

Hurricane season starts every year on June 1^st. It’s important to have an action plan in place in case your home is in its path. With heightened concerns because of COVID-19, additional items should be taken into consideration.

Before a storm 2

• Check your roof and siding for any leaks or loose shingles.
• Clean your gutters to make sure they are clean and working properly.
• If you have a basement or lower-level sump pump or French drain, perform a semi-annual operational test.
• If equipped, check the storm shutter bolts to ensure they are not broken or inoperable. 
• Check around your home for evidence of improper drainage. Ensure grading or ground around your home is pitched appropriately so that surface water drains away from your home or other structures.
• Remove or prune dead or dying trees and branches. This may require the engagement of a local arborist or tree company.
• Consider the purchase of hurricane supplies for your home and autos, including flood barrier panels, flood bags and custom vehicle bags.
• Have a plan for storing outdoor furniture and other yard décor.
• Prepare an overall disaster plan. Below are some considerations:
  • Outline an evacuation plan in case you cannot shelter-in-place. Due to pandemic-related concerns, local authorities may have revised their evacuation measures from previous years; thus, check with them first on what to potentially expect this year. And if you need to go to a shelter, try to call ahead to check on availability.
  • If you decide to shelter at an available hotel, ask the hotel questions on what it is doing to minimize risk of the continued spread of COVID-19. For example, what precautions are the hotel taking to protect its employees and guests, such as cleaning and social distancing protocols?
  • If evacuating, think ahead about your travel and identify urgent care or hospitals on your route, if you or a family member becomes ill. Also, pack food and water, in the case the area to which you are traveling has limited stores available.
  • As soon as possible, create a first-aid/wellness kit with adequate prescription medications and over-the-counter pain/flu medicines, a thermometer, latex gloves and other supplies. Be sure to add extra masks, hand sanitizer and cleaning products. Likewise, create a to-go bag. Be sure to include a flood lamp flashlight and weather radio. Also, bring an extra cell phone charger and ensure that your contact list is up-to-date.  
  • If you are unable to evacuate, identify a “shelter” room in your home. This enclosed area should also be on the first floor, in the central part of the house and with no windows. When the storm gets bad, go there.
  • Experts warn of the possibility of extended power outages due to COVID-19. Consider purchasing a whole-home, stand-alone generator installed by a licensed contractor. For existing generators, now is the time to do a performance test-run and/or service your generator, if needed. Keep in mind that you may be eligible for a policy premium credit for the purchase of a back-up generator.
  • At least annually, consult your independent agent or broker to ensure adequate insurance coverage.

Wildfires used to have a season but they have been more frequent with higher severity in the last few years. To better protect you and your family, consider the following proactive actions.

Before a wildfire 3

• Make sure your address is visible from the street in all directions.
• Treat, clear, and cut back vegetation, remove fallen debris, and any combustible fuels, creating a defensible space perimeter and firebreak around your home and adjacent structures.
• Plant vegetation that slows fire, such as rockrose, ice plant, and aloe, or fire-resistant shrubs such as hedging roses, bush honeysuckles, currant, cotoneaster, sumac, or shrub apples.
• Replace wood mulch with rock or gravel.
• Remove dead leaves and pine needles from roofs, decks, and patios.
• Install a safe to help protect jewelry and other valuables from fire damage.
• Remove lint and other buildup from air conditioner screens.
• Install fire-resistant vents so burning embers can’t enter your home.
• Consider purchasing a portable gasoline-powered water pump, which allows fire engines to draw water from nearby swimming pools.

If you need assistance or have questions, please reach out to your dedicated Account Manager and we can review what makes the most sense for you and your family.

Looking for other loss prevention tips or want to keep up to date on what we’re seeing in the marketplace? Follow us on LinkedIn!

Take care and be well,

Your Private Client Services team

1 https://www.chubb.com/us-en/individuals-families/resources/protecting-your-family-home-from-a-flood.aspx

2 https://news.na.chubb.com/2020-05-14-Preparing-Your-Home-and-Family-for-Hurricane-Season-During-COVID-19

3 https://news.na.chubb.com/2020-04-28-Are-you-in-a-wildfire-prone-area

No matter what insurance carrier you are with, this video explains why it is important to request Original Equipment Manufacturer parts when making repairs to your vehicle. #staysafe #riskmanagement #protectingtomorrowtoday

Water damage is one of the most common causes of a claim to a home. Click here to hear about a real life example of a water damage claim from a Chubb client.

With temperatures dropping well below freezing, check out these proactive steps that you can take to protect your home.

New jewelry for Valentine’s Day? Check out this video.

 Check out this interactive tool that explains why flood insurance is so important. #protectingtomorrowtoday#floodinsurance#waterdamage

Will you have the correct insurance coverage to pay the loan and replace the car?

With heavy rainstorms in the forecast, here are a few great tips on safeguarding your belongings. #protectingtomorrowtoday #riskmanagement #flood #lossprevention #waterdamage

Cyber insurance policies have been in existence for about twenty years but have really developed over the past ten years. The primary purpose of these policies was initially to cover liability resulting from a data breach as well as reimbursement of notification costs tied to the breach.

Although liability protection and data breach response costs are still major components of cyber insurance policies, recent years have led to broader policies that cover other types of claims such as extortion attacks, cyber related business interruption events, and funds transfer fraud resulting from social engineering attacks.

One emerging trend we have seen is a large rise in extortion or ransomware attacks. In a ransomware attack, a hacker sends a fake or fraudulent email to an unsuspecting employee within a company. Typically, the hacker will pretend to be a fellow employee (such as a CEO or CFO) or a client to disguise the attack. The email will include an attachment or file that looks legitimate and contains malware.

Once the employee clicks on the link, the hacker is able to gain access to the company’s network and will then encrypt sensitive systems or data. At this point, the company could have its day to day operations crippled.

For example, a manufacturer relying on IT systems to produce inventory may wake up to find its production equipment completely shut down and unable to manufacture product. A law firm may come into the office and realize they are unable to access case files or client information because these files have been encrypted.

At this point, the hacker will demand a ransom payment to unlock the systems or data. The ransom demand is usually made in Bitcoin or another form of cryptocurrency that is difficult to trace.

In a situation this fall, we had a client who was hit by one of these attacks and faced a Bitcoin ransom demand of over $1,000,000. With help from the insurance company and a third party negotiating firm, the ransom demand was negotiated down to a much lower amount and the company agreed to pay the ransom. When adding in the costs of using third party firms to deal with the incident, the overall cost to the company was sizeable.

A cyber insurance policy is key to responding to this type of attack as it offers a range of resources and protection to the business facing the attack.

The primary benefit of the company’s cyber policy is reimbursing the cost of the ransom payment and other ancillary expenses made in resolving the incident.

The secondary benefits are often just as important. These include the step by step guidance provided by the insurance company and its approved vendors for how to respond to the incident. A quick response can get the company back up and running quickly with as little impact to operations and ultimately the organization’s financials as possible.

As part of the policy, the insurance company and the negotiating firm are in place to handle the ransom negotiation and ultimately the payment. The third party negotiating firms used by the insurance companies face these types of negotiations on a daily basis and know the criminal organizations they are dealing with.

The policy also provides access to a panel of law firms specializing in cyber litigation. This is critical as it gives the company an outlet to determine if they face any legal liability or legal duty to notify affected customers or clients.

In addition, the policy can give the company access to a panel of vetted IT and forensics firms. These firms can be used to determine how the organization was breached and how systems and policies can be strengthened to avoid a similar attack in the future.

In the claim mentioned above, these resources and third party firms helped save the company hundreds of thousands of dollars and got the company back up and running quickly.

In summary, we have found all companies and organizations are vulnerable to these types of claims. In fact, smaller businesses and organizations are often more susceptible to these types of attacks as they typically do not spend the same level of resources on cybersecurity or training as large organizations.

If you have questions or would like to discuss cyber insurance in more detail, please reach out to a risk advisor at Simpson & McCrady to set up a time for a conversation.

To learn more, check out our previous summary on trends that we are seeing in the cyber insurance space. The article includes best practices and tips that you can utilize to strengthen your personal and/or corporate cybersecurity practices.

Disclaimer: This is a general overview of commercial cyber insurance. Coverage is determined based on the details surrounding a claim and are dependent on the limits, deductibles, terms, conditions, and exclusions of the policy.

Simpson & McCrady, LLC, continues to monitor developments in various state and federal courts regarding claims by policy holders for business interruption coverage arising out of the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and how such decisions may potentially impact our clients.

For those clients in Pennsylvania, and especially in Allegheny County, you should be aware that Judge Christine A. Ward of the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas issued a decision on March 22, 2021, in the matter of Ungarean, et al. v. CNA and Valley Forge Insurance Company (GD No. 20-006544) that found in favor of a policy holder asserting it was entitled to business interruption coverage after its business was essentially closed due to the disruption of COVID-19 and the resulting “stay at home” orders that were issued by Pennsylvania Governor Wolf.

Judge Ward’s ruling departs substantially from other state and federal courts in Pennsylvania and/or other jurisdictions which have held that coverage did not apply in the absence of “direct physical loss or damage” to the business due to COVID-19.  To the contrary, Judge Ward held that coverage under policies for a “loss” exists when a business has lost and/or been deprived of the use of its business property even in the absence of physical damage.  This ruling potentially broadens the availability of business interruption coverage in a substantial manner in favor of policy holders who may assert such claims for coverage within Allegheny County.

A policy holder who previously decided to not pursue a claim and/or had a claim based upon a determination that they had not sustained “direct physical loss or damage” due to COVID-19 may now want to consult with an attorney regarding options for revived claims for coverage given the potential ramifications of Judge Ward’s decision, especially if located in Allegheny County.

While this is certainly potentially positive news for insureds, it is our understanding that an appeal of Judge Ward’s decision is likely.  As this case, as well as several others across the United States, continue to progress – we will make every effort to keep you informed.

As always, please know that we are here to answer any specific questions you may have in regard to the ruling.

Wondering what to pack in your emergency go bag in the event of a natural disaster? #riskmanagement #protectingtomorrowtoday

Financial advisors and P&C agents and brokers play an important role in helping to safeguard their clients’ home renovation investments. #riskmanagement #protectingtomorrowtoday #historichomes #renovationprojects #renovation #antique

For those that enjoy the outdoors, check out this quick demonstration on how to tie a clove hitch.

How to tie a bowline knot

Wondering where to start after the hurricane has passed? Check out this link with helpful risk management tips to stay safe. #riskmanagement #protectingtomorrowtoday #hurricaneseason

How to prepare for tropical storm Dorian: helpful tips. #nature #disasterrelief #preparedness #hurricane #helpfultips #protectingtomorrowtoday

Our clients come to us because we are able to provide valuable insight from our experience over the years in tackling complex risk management and insurance issues. We provide guidance, expertise, and access to specialty insurance companies that they would not have access to in the direct market. It’s not about saving 15%. It’s about knowing that you are protected properly and that there is a risk management plan in place to prevent losses from happening in the first place or mitigating the severity of those potential losses. This article is spot on when it goes into scenarios that successful individuals face and what we do to help educate and protect their lifestyles.

As concerns about the COVID–19 continue to rise in the headlines, so has apprehension over the pandemic’s potential threats towards the welfare of our clients’ workforce and the disruption of their businesses.

Simpson | McCrady is here to assist you in reviewing your key insurance coverages and business continuity so that your organization can appropriately develop and implement a plan of action through effective risk management policies, added measures and procedures during a potential pandemic.

KNOWING YOUR COVERAGES AND HOW THEY MAY RESPOND

It is unusual to have a specified policy in place for business loss due to a pandemic. Therefore, it is imperative that you review your policies with Simpson | McCrady to reaffirm any key coverages that may be provided.  Below are general policy interpretations and initial coverage analysis – again, specific policy terms and conditions would need to be reviewed in order to confirm the general observations below.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Compensability for Worker’s Compensation will be based on whether or not the disease/illness is considered occupational. In order for it to be compensable, the disease would have to be contracted during the course of employment and due to conditions specific to the employees work. For example, if an employee is deemed to have contracted COVID-19 while traveling for work, workers compensation compensability could apply.  Likewise, healthcare workers exposed to COVID–19 during their course of employment may merit compensability via Worker’s Compensation.

Liability Insurance

General liability policies typically provide coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Liability policies often have exclusions for communicable disease or viruses, which means bodily injury and property damage caused by diseases like COVID-19 may not be covered. Claims will likely require specific documentation about the exposure of the disease and potentially its origin and diagnosis, so keep clear records if someone at your organization becomes ill. 

Property/Business Interruption Insurance

Business Interruption/Loss of Income policies are almost always embedded in property policies and require that physical loss or damage to covered property, by an insured peril, to trigger coverage. Further, in order for business interruption coverage to trigger, the loss or damage must generally occur on the insured’s premise or dependent premise.  Extensions for business interruption for dependent businesses (e.g. suppliers) are also available.  In the case of COVID-19, however, communicable disease is not a covered peril – so triggering coverage would be difficult to argue.

TAKING A PROACTIVE APPROACH                                

Simpson | McCrady and our team of experts recommend several ways in which your business can take a proactive approach to preparing for a negative impact as COVID-19 spreads.

1: Review your business continuity plan and determine appropriate alternatives in light of COVID-19

Examine your business continuity and pandemic policies and procedures to ensure your organization is prepared if your employees become ill. Your continuity plan should include the course of action you will take if an employee is impacted, how to respond and accommodate employees who don’t feel safe working in a communal space or whose home life may be impacted if schools or childcare centers are closed. It should also include a plan to address any employee who is at risk of infection while traveling in quarantined areas. 

Identify essential people, processes, technologies and other critical inputs where their absence would have the biggest negative impact on your business and create recovery strategies to minimize any disruption. This could include outsourcing, allowing more flexible teleworking options or developing commuting alternatives for your employees if public transportation is not available. Work with your supply chain partners and other service suppliers to ensure you have a back-up plan should there be a breakdown along the line. This may involve increasing inventory levels of high volume products/services.

2: Communicate with your employees, vendors, partners and customers

Distribute information and official updates from organizations like the WHO or the CDC with your employees so they understand the potential threats from COVID-19. Share information on your organization’s emergency preparedness and response plan and develop a platform that will encourage individuals to speak up if they start to develop symptoms and reassure them that self-reporting is safe. Ask them to quarantine themselves if they have been to areas where a virus has been reported. 

3: Communicating with and educating your workforce

Employee health and safety is a key factor to mitigating the risks involved in the evolving outbreak. Be transparent with internal and external stakeholders about how you’re handling the outbreak with your workplace. Develop and distribute programs and materials covering the basic virus fundamentals. Educate your employees on your continuity plans and procedures so that your employees know what to expect if your company is impacted. Issue travel advisories and make sure your employees understand the resources available to protect them. Identify community sources for timely and accurate information. Ongoing communication about the virus will help your employees feel informed and safe. 

4: Document Losses

We recommend that you document and quantify lost income, extra expense and employee injury/sickness due to infection in as much detail as possible.   Historically speaking, larger uninsured economic events have sometimes experienced governmental intervention in the private insurance marketplace.  COVID-19 could possibly be another example of an event that leads to governmental intervention. Those affected companies who can clearly quantify their loss would likely receive quicker and more equitable relief.

Simpson | McCrady appreciates the opportunity to service your commercial risk management and insurance needs. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

To access up to date information specific to COVID-19, please visit the CDC website giving background information on the outbreak and helpful tips on how to keep your workplace safe.

Yours in health,

The Simpson | McCrady Commercial Lines Team

Last update: March 11, 2020

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A message from our Private Client Services Team during a time where “social distancing” is the new norm with the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19): We are here for you!

We want to let you know that we are here. Please read on for updates on where we are, what we’re seeing and how we can help.

Where we are:

While we’ve cancelled any upcoming large group presentations and individual business travel, instated remote office capabilities for our staff and we may not be able to have you visit our office or have an in person meeting over coffee for the time being, we’re only a phone call away. We recognize that lives must go on and there are risk management and insurance items that you need us to take care of and address. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of our Private Client Services team members via email or give our office a call. We have business continuity plans in place to make this as seamless as possible for you.

Where you are:

Where possible, sign up for local alerts to keep posted on what is going on in your own area. We assist clients across the US and internationally but, as an example, for those in the Pittsburgh area, the Allegheny County Health Department is providing local resources and information on the outbreak. Please check with your own local counties to determine the best way to receive notifications on what is going on in your area.

What we’re seeing in the insurance market:

While travel and large events have been significantly decreasing in the efforts to slow down the spread of COVID-19, it’s important to know what your options are in the future when rescheduling. Travel and event insurance, under normal circumstances, are available through our office but, at the moment, many companies have placed a pause on issuing any new business until further notice for this type of coverage. If you have a question or concern, please reach out for further discussion.

Cyber attacks continue to be a trend that we are seeing in the marketplace. If you do not have personal cyber insurance or have not had this discussion, please reach out to your Account Manager to review your options and easy risk management tactics that you can quickly put into place. With COVID-19, we’ve seen an uptick in issues and want to make sure you have proper protection.

Under normal circumstances, personal automobile and motorcycle policies exclude coverage for things like using your personal vehicle to provide food deliveries. Some companies have issued statements providing leniency in certain situations to assist during the COVID-19 state of emergency to temporarily help out US citizens. Many restaurants have been thrust into delivery activity that they did not contemplate until the stay at home mandates were made and have forced many to use their personal vehicles to assist with food deliveries. Each company has issued a different stance and if you or a family member are utilizing your personal auto to provide food deliveries from restaurants or through groups, please reach out to discuss your specific information to confirm you have proper coverage in place while driving.

We, along with all of our carriers, are closely monitoring the situation. We will update this post as needed along with providing additional helpful tips and information on our social media platforms through LinkedIn and Facebook. Please know that we are here for you and are available to address any of the regular day to day needs – home, vehicle, and valuable article purchases and questions on risk mitigation and risk management, to name a few. Please reach out as we’d love to hear from you.

From our family to yours, stay safe and be well,

Your Simpson | McCrady Private Client Services Team

*Last updated 3/27/2020

Insurance carriers respond to the global pandemic and how they’re helping out communities and individuals.

It’s helpful to see small acts of kindness that give hope during these difficult times. In Pittsburgh’s little town of Aspinwall, PA, a concrete wall has turned into an inspiring wall of chalk artwork from adults and kids alike.

The insurance carriers that we represent are taking steps – big and small – to help out our mutual clients and communities across the US to stand strong, see the good in each day, and to help out those in need. With so many Americans sheltering-in-place and doing their part to flatten the curve, there are less vehicles on the road, less miles on your car, and less accidents happening each day.

In an effort to give back, some insurance companies are crediting a portion of their automobile premium back to their clients and finding other ways to help. This is an ever evolving list but we hope you find this information helpful in understanding what they are doing and what action, if any, you need to take on your end to benefit:

AIG Private Client Group:

Subject to regulatory review and approval where needed, AIG Private Client Group automobile policy holders can expect a 25% credit back from their auto premium accrued during the two-month period of March-April 2020. They are taking steps with premium billing assistance and can reach out to their billing team to address these concerns at (888)978-5371 or billing.pcg@aig.com.

AIG is also supporting local communities, donating thousands of masks to hospitals, distributing food to non-profit organizations and contributing to local relief efforts in the US, Canada and Bermuda.

Chubb:

On April 5, they announced that the company is committing $10 million to pandemic relief efforts globally and that they will not conduct any layoffs of Chubb employees while in the midst of the pandemic.

On April 13, they also announced that they will be providing a credit for its personal auto insurance clients in the form of a 35% premium reduction for the months of April, May, and a portion of June. No action is required on the client’s end. The credit applies to the upcoming renewals and will be shown as a renewal credit or as a refund check at renewal for a few select states.

If assistance is needed with billing issues, please reach out to your Account Manager to discuss.

Cincinnati:

On April 10, they announced a 15% stay-at-home personal auto credit for April and May premiums – pending regulatory approval. No action is required on the client’s end to receive this discount.

They have also paused cancellations due to nonpayment of premium and are waiving late fees until May 31. Extending to a later date may occur based on individual states.

In addition, they have temporarily waived contractual restrictions on policyholders now performing delivery services in efforts to protect the wellbeing of their communities.

Encompass:

Their efforts include a Shelter-In-Place Payback with an average of 15% money back based on their monthly premium for April, May, and June. Please make sure that your payment information is up to date. Note that Encompass also informed us that customers have received calls asking for account information – note that this is a SCAM and customers should not provide bank or credit card information or money to individuals who call regarding the Payback.

They are offering free identity protection from Encompass’ parent company, Allstate, by signing up in April or May.

Payment relief is available for those in need and can be requested to be placed on a special payment plan. If you are enrolled in Easy Pay/Recurring Credit Card, please call if payment relief is needed so your Account Manager can update your billing information to benefit from this.

They have also temporarily extended coverage for customers who use their personal vehicles to deliver food, medicine and other goods during the Covid-19 state of emergency period. The start and end dates for this endorsement are tied to a governor’s declared State of Emergency, not a Shelter-in-Place order or other Department of Insurance orders. Once the COVID-19 State of Emergency has ended, the endorsement terminates and will no longer apply to the customer’s insurance policy. This means the commercial exclusion applies and coverage is not provided.

Goodville:

They have suspended notices of cancellation for late payments and are waiving late fees for their members for the time being.

All personal lines auto policyholders will receive a 15% premium credit for April and May. Members do not need to take any action to receive their premium credit/refund. The credit will be applied to the next installment or refunded by check, depending on the current payment options selected by the member. 

Goodville will provide members that are fortunate and able to be charitable an option to forego their premium refund and direct it to charity. To do so, members can visit www.goodville.com/covid19 or call 800-603-8152 before June 1, 2020. In addition, Goodville is committing $100,000 in matching funds to this effort. Members will have the option to direct their charitable contributions to regional food banks, first responders/healthcare workers, or international relief.

A member letter is being sent out to all policyholders starting May 1, 2020 with further details.

Hagerty Collector Car:

They have taken efforts to provide assistance if there are issues with payments because of the Covid-19 impact. Please call your Account Manager to discuss if you have any questions.

Nationwide Private Client:

The Nationwide Foundation has made $5 million in contributions to local and national charities to support pandemic response efforts.

They have also taken measures to assist with payment concerns and premium relief for personal automobile policies in the form of a one-time premium credit of $50. No action is needed for the premium credit. If you need assistance with billing, please reach out to your Account Manager to discuss.

Progressive:

They have introduced the Apron Relief Program. Subject to approval by state regulators, personal auto customers who have a policy in force as of April 30 and May 31 will be credited 20% on their May and June premiums respectively. Additional credits may be offered in the coming months. No action is needed to receive these benefits.

Starting April 1 through May 15, customers will not be cancelled or non-renewed for non-payment of premium. This is subject to state leniency guidelines. Late fees or cancel fees will not be charged, collections will be paused, and they will hold off on cancelling or non-renewing any active policies due to non-payment through May 15, 2020. Automatic payments will continue to go through unless directed otherwise. Please contact your Account Manager if you have questions on this.

There are temporary modifications to the policy exclusions to provide applicable coverage for claims involving food and medicine delivery activity by Personal Auto and Motorcycle customers.

They are also offering additional assistance to support first responders, health care workers, and delivery personnel.

The Progressive Foundation has funded an $8 million donation to go to charities focused on hunger, health, and homelessness.

Pure:

A Special Refund notification was released as of April 13 indicating their efforts. They will continue to contribute to the Subscriber Savings Account. The approval for the next allocation for 2019 results will be released in the next few weeks.

They are making a Reduced Miles Refund to members with Pure auto policies. Subject to regulatory approval in each state, a 15% credit will apply for the period of time from the introduction of state stay-at-home orders until they are lifted. These will be paid in cash or applied to reduce any outstanding balance due to Pure. This will not apply to classic cars due to the already low-to-no mileage premium credits.

In addition to the funds already allocated through their Pure Insurance Foundation, they have added an additional grant of $500,000 to the current charitable organizations that they already serve including food banks throughout the US.

Selective:

Pending regulatory approval, customers with an inforce personal auto policy as of April 30, 2020 and May 31, 2020 will receive 15% of their monthly premium for April and May applied to their account. Credits will be automatically issued without any required action on your end. Customers should see the credit from their April period applied to their account by May 15. If policies are paid in full, a refund check will be issued to them in late May. This process will be replicated in early June for the May time period.

They are also offering adjustments in pay plans and grace periods, where needed.

To read more about Selective’s actions, including what they are doing for their employees, please read their press release and their Q&A page.

Travelers:

The Stay-At-Home Auto Premium Credit Program automatically gave US personal auto insurance customers a 15% credit on their April, May and June and these were subject to approval by state regulators.

On 6/16/2020, they returned to normal billing processes in most states. Customers that received billing relief and had $100 or more unpaid premium ($10 in California, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and Washington D.C.) will receive a separate ‘C’ bill and will have 12 months to pay the separate ‘C’ bill. Normal bills will also be going out and should be paid to keep the policies active. The premiums from normal bills and ‘C’ bills should be paid separately and not combined. If there are any questions, please call 1-800-842-5075 to speak with a Travelers representative.

They have, on a case by case basis, temporarily expanded their contract to cover customers whose job responsibilities now include using their personal vehicles to make food, grocery, pharmacy and medical supply deliveries. (This does not apply to those who are working for transportation network companies.)

Cancellation and non-renewals have been suspended through June 15 with no interest, late fees, or penalties during this time. This does not apply to recurring payment plans.

Philanthropically, they have pledged $5 million to Covid-19 relief efforts to assist families and communities across North America, the United Kingdom, and the Republic of Ireland, among other efforts.

Please note that these are all recent announcements and are pending individual state regulatory approval. This is meant to be a general summary and all terms, conditions, and coverage are dependent on each individual policy at the time of a claim. We will continue to update as additional information comes in which, at the moment, is daily. Take care, stay safe, and be well.

We have also been posting helpful tips, useful information, and even comfort food recipes on our Facebook and LinkedIn pages. Please feel free to follow us on these platforms to see what additional information you may find helpful in your day to day.

From your Private Client Services Team at Simpson | McCrady

Last updated 9/15/20

In an effort to relay important information as it relates to COVID-19 and its impact on business everywhere – we are pleased to offer two thought leading articles to help you navigate these uncharted waters.

This article frames thought around assessing the risks associated with re-opening of businesses along with ideas about how to minimize those same risks:

We hope you find both articles of interest and support during these times.  As always, the members of your Simpson | McCrady team stand ready to answer any and all questions you may have in regard to Risk Management.

In an effort to relay important information as it relates to COVID-19 and its impact on business everywhere – we are pleased to offer two thought leading articles to help you navigate these uncharted waters.

This article is related to OSHA’s Enforcement Priorities During the Coronavirus Pandemic:

We hope you find both articles of both interest and support during these times.  As always, the members of your Simpson | McCrady team stand ready to answer any and all questions you may have in regard to Risk Management.

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