December renewals are not treated the same as renewals earlier in the year. Underwriters are closing their books, managing loss ratios, responding to reinsurance pressure, and deciding which risks they want to carry into the next calendar year. As a result, scrutiny is higher, timelines are tighter, and tolerance for incomplete information is lower.
Understanding what underwriters focus on in December gives insureds a real advantage. Preparation can be the difference between stable pricing and unexpected increases, reduced terms, or limited options.
Loss History and Open Claims Take Center Stage
At year-end, loss history is often the first and most heavily weighted factor underwriters review. Both frequency and severity matter, but open claims receive particular attention. Open files create uncertainty, and uncertainty drives conservative pricing.
Underwriters want clarity on reserves, claim status, corrective actions taken, and whether issues are isolated or systemic. Providing context around losses—especially what has changed operationally—can significantly influence renewal outcomes.
Payroll, Revenue, and Exposure Accuracy Matter More Than Ever
Inaccurate exposure data is one of the fastest ways to trigger rate increases or audits. Underwriters expect payroll, revenue, headcount, and property values to reflect current operations, not last year’s estimates.
December is also when underwriters look ahead. If your business grew, added locations, expanded services, or entered new markets, those changes must be clearly explained. Surprises discovered later often lead to audits, additional premiums, or coverage disputes.
Risk Management and Controls Are Under the Microscope
Underwriters increasingly evaluate how well a business manages risk, not just what coverage it buys. Safety programs, training protocols, incident reporting procedures, and loss control measures all play a role in renewal decisions.
In December, underwriters want reassurance that risks are being actively managed going into the new year. Even modest improvements—documented clearly—can support better terms and pricing.
Property Data and Valuations Face Increased Scrutiny
Property renewals remain one of the most challenging areas of the market. Replacement cost accuracy, COPE data, protection class, and maintenance records are heavily reviewed at year-end.
Inflation has made underinsurance a major concern. Underwriters are cautious with buildings that appear undervalued or lack updated information. Poor data often results in higher deductibles, reduced limits, or coinsurance penalties.
Cyber Risk Controls Are No Longer Optional
Cyber insurance underwriting has matured significantly, and December renewals are especially strict. Underwriters want confirmation of multi-factor authentication, backup protocols, endpoint protection, and incident response planning.
Incomplete cyber questionnaires or outdated controls can delay renewal or lead to reduced coverage. Clear documentation of cyber hygiene is essential heading into 2026.
Contractual Risk and Certificates Raise Red Flags
For businesses that rely on contracts, vendors, or subcontractors, underwriters pay close attention to risk transfer practices. Missing certificates, inadequate limits, or poor contract language increase exposure.
December renewals often include questions about how third-party risk is managed. Demonstrating strong certificate tracking and contract review processes helps underwriters feel more comfortable with complex operations.
Timing and Responsiveness Influence Outcomes
December is compressed. Underwriters are handling high volumes while closing the year. Accounts that submit complete, organized renewal information early receive more thoughtful consideration.
Late submissions often lead to rushed decisions, limited negotiation, and less favorable outcomes. Responsiveness matters as much as the information itself during year-end renewals.
How Preparation Strengthens Your Renewal Position
Preparation is the most controllable factor in the renewal process. Reviewing loss runs, updating exposures, closing documentation gaps, and addressing underwriting concerns before submission creates leverage.
A clean, proactive renewal file tells underwriters that the risk is well-managed and predictable—two qualities insurers value highly when capacity is tight.
How Skyscraper Insurance Prepares Renewal Files
Skyscraper Insurance approaches year-end renewals strategically. We review loss trends, exposure data, risk controls, and underwriting narratives to ensure your account is positioned clearly and accurately.
Our goal is to eliminate surprises, reduce friction, and advocate effectively so carriers see the full picture—not just the numbers.
Finish the Year Strong, Start the Next One Right
December renewals set the tone for the entire year ahead. Businesses that prepare thoughtfully gain stability, clarity, and better control over insurance outcomes.
If your renewal is approaching, now is the time to review your file and address what underwriters are scrutinizing most.
