Claims-Made Policy

A policy that responds to claims first made while the policy is active, for work done after the retro date. Most professional liability policies for A&E firms work this way.

Reviewed by Avi Rabbani, Licensed Insurance Agent

What it means for your firm

With a claims-made policy, what matters is when the claim is made, not when the work was done. The claim usually has to be made and reported while the policy is in force.

Past work is covered only back to the retro date. That is why keeping the retro date when you renew or change carriers matters so much.

Guides that use it

How claims-made coverage works How to read an insurance proposal

Articles that explain it

No ‘Defend’ in It, Still Worth a Second Look: Reading an Indemnity Clause After Three Rounds of Edits The Owner Says It ‘Might Go Legal.’ Putting Your Insurer on Notice Before It Is a Claim Your Firm Is in the US. Your Design Team Is Not. Does Your Professional Liability Cover Work Done Abroad? My Agent Is in Another State. Who Defends Me if I’m Sued? Getting Paid Without Starting a Claim: Fee Disputes, Suspension and Your E&O Insurance for Forensic Engineers: Investigations, Reports and Testimony

General definition for education only. It is not an interpretation of any policy or contract, and it is not legal advice. The wording of your own policy and contract controls. Policies and definitions vary by insurance company.

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