Get to know Laura Kent, Queensland Property Underwriter:
1. Where did you work before this position?
I have been with IAG for 9 years in July. I came across to CGU from WFI in 2020 where I was an Area Manager for the Brisbane West Region.
2. What is something you find challenging about your role?
Honestly, everything Paul said (I can’t articulate it any better). As a new(er) underwriter, my biggest challenge has been learning market trends across different industries of business. This is still something that I am working at improving.
3. What do you see as the biggest influences in the Property ISR market at present?
Major weather events, increasing claims costs due to things like inflation, covid-19 impacts to supply chain and workforce availability are all impacting the market.
4. In general, what types of Property ISR risks are seeing and writing the most?
CGU have quite a broad underwriting appetite and we will consider most occupations if there is enough information supplied and enough lead time to review and underwrite the risk. This includes some higher-risk occupations where the property/ies are risk managed to a high standard. The QLD Underwriting team have recently seen risks such as Retirement Living, Large Shopping Centre Complexes, Shopping Centre Strips, 4/5 Star Hotels, Metal Products Fabrication, Food Wholesalers, Pet Product Wholesalers cross our desks, to name a few.
5. From your perspective, what would you say are CGU’s strengths in Property ISR?
Underwriting specialists with many years’ experience, with local decision-making capabilities and strong brand presence.
6. What is one piece of advice you can give brokers when presenting their Property ISR risks to underwriters?
Ensure that you provide as much quality information as you can and provide ample lead time for review. Include risk management information and surveys where applicable, full claims histories, full COPE information, etc. to tell the full story on the account. It is easier to review submissions when we have enough information from the beginning.