| Coverage | Trend | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Professional liability |  |
+5% to +15% |
| Property |  |
-5% to +5% |
| Auto liability | |
+8% to +15% |
| Workers' compensation |  |
-5% to flat |
Key takeaways
- Professional liability rates are stabilizing, though difficult venues and developed losses continue to see closer underwriting and increases
- California remains volatile as nuclear verdicts rise; the March 2026 Hernandez award included $100 million in punitive damages
- Seek affirmative punitive damages coverage across the liability tower with most favorable venue wording
- Some excess carriers now offer $5 million vs. $10 million capacity; abuse coverage continues to remain broadly available
Property
The senior living property marketplace remains generally stable; however, risks with catastrophe exposure continue to receive heightened scrutiny through probable maximum loss studies and facultative reinsurance considerations. Smaller accounts may experience deductible increases, while accounts with unfavorable loss experience, significant catastrophe exposure or unmitigated risk conditions may fall outside standard rate expectations. Insurers are placing less emphasis on broad valuation corrections and more focus on inflation-driven value adjustments. Senior living facilities with frame construction or inadequate sprinkler protection remain especially challenging.
Auto Liability
Auto coverage is often packaged with property or workers' compensation programs, although professional liability and general liability relationships may also be leveraged. Standalone auto programs, particularly those with hired and non-owned auto exposures, continue to face market challenges. Underwriters remain focused on fleet safety controls, driver monitoring and documented safety procedures. Organizations should be prepared to conduct annual and new-hire motor vehicle record reviews and demonstrate strong risk management practices. Smaller fleets and hired/non-owned auto exposures continue to experience elevated rate increases due to increasing claim severity.
Workers' Compensation
Many workers' compensation carriers maintain broad appetites for senior living risks and are comfortable writing monoline coverage. Underwriters continue to focus on safety culture, operational controls and lessons learned following losses. Effective return-to-work programs and health and safety initiatives remain important differentiators. Organizations can benefit from partnering closely with insurers and brokers on risk-control measures to optimize outcomes and improve underwriting results.
Disclaimer
WTW hopes you found the general information provided here informative and helpful. The information contained herein is not intended to constitute legal or other professional advice and should not be relied upon in lieu of consultation with your own legal advisors. In the event you would like more information regarding your insurance coverage, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. In North America, WTW offers insurance products through licensed entities, including Willis Towers Watson Northeast, Inc. (in the United States) and Willis Canada Inc. (in Canada).
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