Environmental Liability Insurance usually requires more detailed underwriting than standard Public Liability Insurance.

The insurer needs to understand where pollution could arise and how that exposure is managed.

What business information is required? #

This can include:

• Business activities.
• Turnover.
• Locations.
• Years operating.
• Required policy limits.
• Existing insurance.
• Previous environmental claims.

What information is needed about the premises? #

For premises-based cover, insurers may ask about:

• Property address.
• Current use.
• Historical use.
• Age of the site.
• Neighbouring properties.
• Nearby waterways.
• Previous environmental assessments.
• Known contamination.

What operational information can be required? #

Depending on the business:

• Chemicals used or stored.
• Fuel storage.
• Above-ground or underground tanks.
• Waste generated.
• Waste disposal arrangements.
• Environmental licences.
• Pollution controls.
• Spill response procedures.
• Contractor activities.

What about previous contamination? #

Known pollution or contamination should be disclosed accurately.

The insurer may request:

• Environmental reports.
• Site assessments.
• Remediation reports.
• Regulatory correspondence.
• Details of previous incidents.

Specialist insurers may be able to consider some historical conditions, but this depends on underwriting and policy terms.

What information do contractors need to provide? #

Contractors can also be asked about:

• Types of work.
• Maximum contract values.
• Project locations.
• Subcontractors.
• Remediation work.
• Work involving contaminated sites.
• Environmental procedures.

A clear description of the actual activities is important to obtaining appropriate terms.