A deeper look at our segments: Realty
September 18, 2025
Commercial Lines
Take a closer look at one of our Commercial Lines segments this month. This quick-reference guide outlines the types of businesses we’re looking for, key underwriting considerations, and a real-world example of a successful account we wrote.
We’re looking to insure property owners who take pride in smart, proactive management. Well-kept residential and commercial buildings that have consistent occupancy, and solid maintenance routines. Bonus points for modern infrastructure and a clear plan to keep operations running smoothly.
Appetite at a glance:
| Preferred occupancies |
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| Favourable attributes |
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General underwriting considerations
Gore’s Extended Bundles offer added peace of mind with key coverages tailored for realty businesses:
- Master key coverage – Covers the cost to replace or reprogram locks if a master key (controlling all doors at listed locations) is lost or damaged due to an insured event.
- Functional pro-environment upgrade – Allows replacement of damaged property with a more energy-efficient or environmentally friendly version, up to the policy limit.
- Roadways, walkways & parking lots – Extends protection to exterior paved surfaces, retaining walls, and permanent landscaping structures.
Subject to terms and conditions of the policy.
Client-specific exposures:
Additional considerations for accurate building valuation:
- Parking features: Underground garages or heated driveways can significantly impact rebuild costs.
- By-law upgrades: Post-loss updates may be required to meet current city codes, affecting rebuild costs.
- Debris removal: Clearing fallen trees, rubble, or hazardous materials can be expensive and should be factored in.
These exposures are key in ensuring your client is properly covered.
Business interruption – Gross rentals
A valuable coverage that continues until the building is re-tenanted, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.
Submission quality – Help us, help you!
To support accurate underwriting and tailored coverage, please include the following when submitting a risk:
- Years of building ownership
- Year built, construction details (including roof structure and covering), occupancy, mechanical updates etc.
- Maintenance plan including snow removal protocols
These details help us deliver faster, more accurate quotes and better protection for your clients!
Real-world example: why we wrote this account
- Client profile: Building Owner – Single Occupancy – Mercantile – Repair Garage
- Established: 2020
- Gross rentals: $200,000
- Location Insured Value: $7.2M
- Risk highlights:
- Claims-free history
- Continuous coverage
- Lease agreement in place with no short-term rentals
- Building details:
- Newer construction building, built in 2010
- Masonry non-combustible
- Protected
- Snow removal contract in place
- Management plan monitored by a property manager
What’s the latest?
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On Giving Tuesday, employees came together to make a meaningful difference through our recognition program. Paired with broker giving, these efforts created a powerful impact in communities and demonstrated how purpose truly delivers results.
Winter is coming: Help Main Street businesses stay resilient
Commercial Lines, Personal Lines
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Winter brings unique risks—snow, ice, high winds, and freezing rain. Help clients stay ahead with practical tips: inspect signage, keep entrances clear, protect windows, prepare for outages, and review coverage. Proactive planning means safer, more resilient businesses.