September is National Preparedness Month, a timely reminder that preparation is key to protecting our people, businesses, and communities. At CMR Risk & Insurance Services, we know that while no one can predict the future, every organization can take steps to reduce risks and respond effectively when the unexpected happens. Why Preparedness Matters From natural...
High-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fans are large ceiling fans designed to rotate slowly and efficiently while moving significant amounts of air across vast spaces. They have become increasingly common in various types of commercial buildings, especially warehouses, factories and gymnasiums. HVLS fans differ from traditional ceiling fans due to the extended diameter of their fan blades...
Despite a slowdown in premium growth and a loss-heavy first quarter, the U.S. property and casualty insurance industry posted an underwriting profit of $11.5 billion in the first half of 2025, according to data from Verisk and the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA). The $11.5 billion profit surpassed the $3.8 billion underwriting profit in...
The commercial property insurance segment has been grappling with limited underwriting profitability and hardening conditions for much of the past decade, mainly due to surging catastrophe (CAT) losses, inflation issues and property valuation challenges. As such, ongoing premium jumps and restrictive coverage terms have become the norm for most policyholders. Shifting market dynamics helped ease...
Insured losses from the severe convective storms (SCS) that occurred between May 14–17, 2025, are estimated to range from $4 billion to $7 billion. According to recent estimates from reinsurance brokers, these storms are likely to rank among the costliest SCS events in U.S. history. “Two large severe weather outbreaks on May 14-17 and May...
Unexpected disasters can impact organizations, their operations and stakeholders. Natural catastrophes, cyberattacks, public health crises and supply chain incidents can all have serious consequences. These and other events can damage commercial property and digital assets, disrupt critical business functions and cause operational downtime. They can also result in illnesses or injuries, emotional harm, and financial...
OSHA issued a notice in January that it would extend the effective date of its Outdoor and Indoor Heat-related Hazards National Emphasis Program (NEP) until April 8, 2026. Originally, this NEP was set to expire on April 8, 2025. OSHA states its review of this NEP shows success in identifying and targeting industries with employee...
As we observe Hurricane Preparedness Week 2025, it’s a critical time for property managers and commercial real estate stakeholders to reassess their readiness for hurricane season. The increased intensity and unpredictability of recent storms have heightened the urgency to develop comprehensive risk management strategies that safeguard people, property, and profits. The Growing Threat of Hurricanes to...
Another above-average hurricane season will threaten the Atlantic this year, with as many as six storms affecting the US, AccuWeather Inc. said. Between 13 and 18 storms will at least reach tropical storm strength, and seven to 10 of those are expected to become hurricanes with winds of at least 74 miles (119 kilometers) per...
Risk management is an essential aspect of property leasing, and one method that landlords can utilize to reduce potential losses is contractual risk transfer. This legally binding strategy assigns responsibilities for liabilities and related costs to the party who may be best positioned to control the risk. Together with other risk management strategies (e.g., risk...