5 Questions with Todd Burke

1. Can you tell PMPs who PestSure is and what you do?

PestSure is much more than just a place to buy insurance. Think of PestSure as the pest control industry’s very own full-service insurance company with a dedicated claims and loss prevention team, owned and operated by PMPs. We are much different than a traditional insurance market or program, as we control the underwriting and humanize the insurance side of the business. Our team is 100% devoted to the industry with the goal to help you protect your balance sheet and reduce your insurance costs over time. We boast nearly 100% retention of our insureds every year.

2. What’s the latest on current insurance market conditions, and what should we expect when it’s time for renewal?

Be prepared for increases in auto and umbrella coverage, even if you have not had any claims. These two lines continue to increase due to an unfavorable legal environment and large auto settlements. Market conditions have deteriorated the last several years, and insurance carriers are trying to get as much premium increase as possible. The umbrella market is the most difficult we have ever seen, and there are a limited number of carriers wanting to write this coverage.

3. How do successful PMPs reduce their claims and lower their insurance premiums?

The insureds that truly focus on their safety culture and hiring practices tend to have the best results. This means having an internal team or individual focused on helping create this culture. These are generally the companies with the lowest loss ratios and premium rates.

4. What is your No. 1 recommendation to PMPs to protect their business in today’s challenging legal environment?

Most PMPs are underinsured when it comes to umbrella coverage. We advise at least $5 million in umbrella limits to properly protect your business. Our insureds carry anywhere from $2 million to $35 million in umbrella limits.

5. What is the most challenging area pertaining to claims?

Auto claims are the most frequent and problematic for the industry. Our No. 1 cause of loss is rear-end collisions — usually a result of distracted driving. To be proactive, Linda Midyett, our director of loss prevention, works with our insureds to help lower their occurrence ratios and prevent accidents. PestSure members have access to a plethora of safety information on our website (www.pestsure.com) that helps them reduce risk.