Catastrophe & Restoration

Between June 1 and November 30, 2009, only nine named storms developed in the Atlantic basin, three of which became hurricanes. These are the lowest totals in each category since 1997.

The latest government study on Chinese drywall has revealed a "strong association" between the drywall and corrosion in homes that may physically irritate their residents.

A federal court ruling holding the Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. government by extension, liable for damage in New Orleans caused by Hurricane Katrina is unlikely to have much effect on the P&C industry.

Tropical Storm Ida's landfall resulted in strong winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding to parts of the Gulf coast -- but no significant property damage.

Comprehensive guidelines specifically intended for a non-engineering audience -- property owners, contractors, and insurance adjusters -- have been developed for the assessment and repair of earthquake damage in residential wood-frame construction.

To the detriment of consumers, claim adjusters, and the carriers themselves, it's still the wild, wild West when it comes to current practices and processes for handling contents claims.

Inconsistent. Dubious. Inequitable. Controversy. Inexperience. These are not the type of words we want to describe our industry's next response to catastrophe.

A how-to guide with explanations on handling and investigating construction losses.