Commercial Lines Underwriting Review Checklist

Inspection checklist for evaluating a commercial account's exposures, loss history, controls, and fit with underwriting appetite, and for documenting accept, decline, or refer decisions.

Submission Completeness and Account Details

• Named insured, DBA, and mailing address verified
• Policy term, effective date, and requested limits confirmed
• Required application forms and supplemental questionnaires received
• Loss runs and current valuation or exposure data received
• Operations summary is sufficient to understand business activities

Operations, Exposures, and Hazard Profile

• Primary operations match the stated class of business
• Hazardous processes, flammables, or high-risk materials identified
• Number of locations reviewed
• Operations are within stated risk appetite
• Subcontractor, tenant, or third-party exposure reviewed
• Occupancy and site conditions present elevated loss potential

Loss History and Claims Analysis

• Loss runs reviewed for the most recent 3 to 5 years
• Open claims, reserves, and large losses explained
• Loss frequency is acceptable for the class of business
• Loss severity trend is acceptable for the class of business
• Loss causes indicate controllable or recurring issues

Property, Fire-Life-Safety, and Loss Control

• Property inspection completed or current inspection report reviewed
• Housekeeping, storage, and aisle conditions are acceptable
• Fire protection systems are present, maintained, and appropriate for the occupancy
• Emergency egress routes are unobstructed and clearly marked
• Loss control recommendations have been implemented or have a documented plan

Financial Strength, Management, and Risk Appetite

• Financial statements or credit indicators support account stability
• Management commitment to safety and loss prevention is evident
• Referral triggers identified for underwriting authority review

Underwriting Decision and Sign-Off

• Underwriting disposition
• Key underwriting rationale documented
• Required conditions, exclusions, or follow-up items documented
• Underwriter signature