CAT Season: What you need to know about binding authority

As we approach CAT season, we’re sharing the key information you need to navigate binding authority for Personal Property when severe events occur, so you can act quickly and support your clients when it matters most. 
The same CAT restriction criteria also apply to Commercial lines. For Commercial submissions, binding is managed internally, and an underwriter will reach out if a submission cannot be processed due to a CAT-related restriction. 
When binding authority is suspended
Binding authority for Personal Property is temporarily suspended when catastrophic conditions create immediate risk. This includes:
Civil authority alerts
Suspension applies when evacuation alerts or orders are issued by an authority (Environment Canada, Conservation Authorities, provincial ministries, municipalities) for a major weather or catastrophic event including but not limited to tornadoes, hurricanes, hail, or landslide.
Flooding
Binding is suspended for risks located in an area or waterway where flooding is occurring, when evacuation alert or order has been issued, or a risk of flooding has been announced by civil or government body.
Wildfires
Binding authority is suspended for risks:

Within 50 km of an active wildfire
Classified as a risk to property or public safety
Under evacuation alert/order
Includes requests to increase coverage on existing risks.

Earthquakes
Suspension applies within 100 km of an earthquake measuring 5.0 or more for 10 days after the event.
Activities restricted during a suspension
When a binding suspension is in place, the following activities are restricted:

Binding existing quotes or issuing new ones
Writing new business or adding new locations
Increasing limits or adding new coverage
Decreasing a deductible

For full details, please refer to the underwriting manuals available on GoBroker. 
Here to support you and your clients
Our teams are ready to support you and your clients during CAT events.

For claims assistance, reach our Claims Advisors at 1‑844‑974‑GORE (4673)
For broker assistance, contact claimsreporting@goremutual.ca for FNOL support

You and your clients are encouraged to keep an eye on local advisories as conditions evolve. For up‑to‑date wildfire information, visit provincial wildfire resources for British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, and refer to the Insurance Bureau of Canada for additional guidance.