Expert Commentary

Construction Defect Coverage

Complex Construction Defect Claims: Who Pays First?—Part 1

Patrick Wielinski | June 1, 2006

In a two-part series, Pat Wielinski discusses a recent and major concern of the construction industry—the risk of nonperformance or default.

Courts and Coverage

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita: Effect on Rating and Underwriting

Brent Cooper | May 13, 2006

Homeowners insurance rate increases may stabilize the market in affected states. Dana Harbin and Brent Cooper explain.

Surety

Surety Underwriting, Sales, and Service—A Delicate Balance

Rolf Neuschaefer | May 1, 2006

Rolf Neuschaefer explains the need for a better understanding of the respective responsibilities of sureties and agents.

Environmental

Mold Litigation: Expert Testimony Required to Prove Causation

Kent Holland | April 1, 2006

Kent Holland explains how expert testimony may be required to prove causation of property damages in mold cases.

Surety

California Curtails Unlicensed Contractors' Recovery for Their Work

Marilyn Klinger | April 1, 2006

Marilyn Klinger details a ruling stressing that contractors who enter into contracts to perform work do so at their own peril.

Captives

How to Choose a Domicile That Works Best for Your Captive

Michael R. Mead | April 1, 2006

Michael Mead provides the basic criteria to achieve success when selecting a domicile.

Intellectual Property

To Use or Not to Use, That Is the Question

Sanford Warren | April 1, 2006

Sanford Warren says don't use another's logo or trademark without written permission.

Mobile Equipment and the 2006 Business Auto Policy

Maureen McLendon | March 11, 2006

ISO has added a new covered auto designation symbol in its 2006 BAP - symbol 19. Maureen McClendon explains the implications.

Ethics

Where Our Ethics Come From

George Head | March 1, 2006

March is Ethics Awareness month. Dr. George Head takes a broad look at individual ethics and how they are developed.

Surety

Construction Surety Bond Liability for Consequential Damages

Marilyn Klinger | March 1, 2006

Marilyn Klinger relates those cases that have found sureties liable for consequential damages in a loose chronological order going back 40 years.