Expert Commentary

Latest Articles

Construction

Conquering Common Challenges in Construction Contracts

Seth Oswald | March 7, 2025

Construction contracts are the framework of every project and essential tools that define roles and responsibilities on a jobsite. This article, derived from a presentation at the 2024 IRMI Construction Risk Conference, highlights five key factors to help avoid pitfalls in construction contracts.

Employee Well-Being

Navigating Addiction in the Workplace

Sally Spencer-Thomas | February 28, 2025

Preventing addiction and overdose in the workplace is a key concern for risk managers. Sally Spencer-Thomas examines the dilemma and offers possible solutions.

Construction Defect Coverage

The Evolution of CGL Coverage for Defective Construction in the Courts

Patrick Wielinski | February 28, 2025

Patrick Wielinski examines the move from overly restrictive approaches to insurance coverage for property damage arising out of defective work or faulty construction to the application of the actual terms of the commercial general liability (CGL) policy, reviewing the litigation history and a recent Illinois court decision.

Property Insurance

Location Can Impact Insurable Property Values

Kurt Huie | February 28, 2025

It is vital for insurance providers and property owners to understand the impact location has on loss prevention and replacement costs.

Courts and Coverage

Breaking Coverage Case—California Court Rules No Coverage for Wildfire Smoke Losses

Jes Alexander | February 27, 2025

Learn about a California appellate court ruling holding that homeowners claiming smoke damages from a wildfire were not entitled to coverage under their homeowners policy.

Design and Professional Liability

Expert Testimony Needed To Prove Inadequate Conduct

Kenneth Slavens | February 14, 2025

Project failure alone does not prove liability, and expert testimony is needed to show the conduct fell below the standard of care. Ken Slavens relates the case.

Workers Compensation Issues

20 Workers Comp Issues To Watch in 2025

Mark Walls, Kimberly George | February 14, 2025

Mark Walls and Kimberly George discuss essential issues for every risk manager, human resources manager, and insurance professional to monitor in 2025.

Catastrophe Risk Management

Los Angeles Wildfires: A Debris Removal Megaproject

John E Putnam | February 7, 2025

After recently writing about debris removal, John Putnam continues the conversation considering the recent LA wildfires and what insurance and risk management challenges they present.

Catastrophe Risk Management

Wildfire Recovery: The Critical Role of Debris Removal Coverage

John E Putnam | February 6, 2025

Very few people consider this insurance until the event happens. Using real-life examples, John Putnam reviews what's covered and what isn't and offers solutions.