Environmental liability insurance
Environmental liability insurance protects companies against the financial consequences of claims for damages caused by environmental damage.
Protection for companies and the environment
Environmental liability insurance - what is it anyway?
Environmental liability insurance is a special form of liability insurance that protects companies and businesses against the financial consequences of environmental damage that could be caused by their activities. It generally covers the costs of remedying environmental damage, third-party claims for damages and, if necessary, legal defense costs. It is particularly relevant for companies that work with hazardous substances or operate in industries that carry out potentially environmentally damaging activities.
Facts & Figures
FAQ on environmental liability insurance
We have summarized the most frequently asked questions about environmental liability insurance for you in our FAQ. Our experts will also be happy to provide you with individual advice.
Environmental damage can lead to significant financial burdens, including costs for remediation measures, compensation claims and fines. Environmental liability insurance offers financial protection and helps to manage these risks.
Environmental liability insurance typically covers the following losses:
- Personal injury: costs for medical treatment, compensation for pain and suffering, loss of earnings and pension payments caused by environmental damage
- Property damage: repair or replacement costs for damaged or destroyed property due to environmental damage
- Cleaning and remediation: Costs for the cleaning and remediation of contaminated soil, water and air
- Financial losses: Financial losses incurred as a result of personal injury or property damage caused by environmental damage
As a rule, the following are not covered
- Damage caused intentionally
- Damage caused by gross negligence on the part of the policyholder
- Damage caused by unauthorized activities
- Damage caused by known environmental risks that have not been remedied
- Industrial companies: Companies that work with hazardous substances or operate processes that are harmful to the environment
- Agricultural companies: Companies that use pesticides, fertilizers or other environmentally harmful substances
- Construction companies: Companies that carry out construction projects that may cause soil and water damage
- Utility companies: Companies that supply water, electricity or gas and are exposed to environmental risks in the process
Yes, there are specialized environmental liability insurance policies for different industries that take into account the specific risks and requirements of each industry.
Environmental damage insurance is a supplementary insurance to environmental liability insurance that specifically covers damage to the environment itself, such as damage to protected species and natural habitats.
Extended liability insurance provides cover for claims that occur after the environmental liability insurance has ended but were caused during the term of the policy. This is particularly important for companies that discontinue or sell their business activities.
- Damage caused by intentional or grossly negligent behavior
- Damage caused by unauthorized activities
- Damage caused by criminal acts
- Damage caused by already known environmental risks that have not been remedied.
Yes, many environmental liability insurance policies also offer international insurance cover, especially for companies operating abroad. However, it is important to check the exact conditions in the insurance contract.
Further insurance solutions
In addition to environmental liability insurance, we also offer numerous other insurance solutions that may be of interest to you.
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