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Environmental
Pollution or contamination events can be sudden and accidental or occur over time. The clean-up, downtime to your business, and bodily injury claims can add up quickly. We can work with you to ensure you have the right coverage in place if you are cited for contaminating the ground, a building, or the air.
When an Environmental or Pollution policy or endorsement helps: Chemicals or pollutants are accidentally released into the environment.
Examples of affected industries: Real estate development, construction, manufacturing, and engineering.
Is environmental/pollution liability included in my business policy?
Most likely not. Some policies include a small amount of pollution coverage, but typically, not enough to cover the expenses of most pollution claims. Consult with us about your current coverage and whether to add coverage.
What pollutants are covered?
Policies vary in their definition of covered pollutants and events. Make sure your policy covers a broad range of pollutants. For contractors, examples include lead-based paint, asbestos, contaminated fill dirt, spilled fuel, epoxy sealant, wood strippers, solvents, caulk, welding fumes, roofing tar, and bacteria and mold.
What is the difference between claims-made versus occurrence?
A claims-made policy will pay claims made during the policy’s reporting period. You can usually add an extended reporting period (ERP, or tail) to offset some of the unknown future liabilities. An occurrence policy will pay claims if the pollution incident occurred while the policy was active, even if the policy is no longer active at the time the claim is made.
Am I covered if I perform work in a state other than where my business is located?
Your liability follows you within North America and the U.S. Territories. However, if you’re doing work out of state, it’s best to review your exposures with your agent to ensure coverage.
Are cleanup and business interruption included in an environmental liability policy?
Maybe. Some environmental policies cover the cost of cleaning up spills and contamination, business interruptions (while correcting a hazard or cleaning up afterward) and your legal expenses and others may not. We can help you find the coverage needed for your business. You may also need a policy that helps cover the cost of removing contaminated materials and restoring damaged property.
