Market & Policy · Insurance Term
Loss Run (Loss History)
Definition
A loss run is a report from an insurance company listing every claim made on your policies over a period, usually the last 3 to 5 years, with dates, amounts paid and amounts reserved. Insurers use loss runs to decide whether to quote you and at what price.
In Plain English
When you shop for coverage, new insurers want to see your claim history. Loss runs come from your current and past insurers and show each claim's date, cause, status and dollars. A report that shows no claims is still useful, because it proves a clean history.
Most insurers want loss runs that are recent, often dated within the last 90 days, as part of a complete submission. Open claims with large reserves can affect pricing even if they may close for less. A short written explanation of big or unusual claims, and what you fixed afterward, can help.
For workers' compensation, loss history also feeds the experience modification rate. Planning ahead for loss runs keeps your renewal on schedule, since some insurers take a few weeks to send them.
Not sure how your policy handles this? Have us review it, or get a quote.
Example
Hypothetical: an apartment owner wants to shop a renewal. The agent requests 5 years of loss runs from two prior insurers. One shows a $90,000 water claim from 3 years ago, so the owner writes a note explaining the plumbing was replaced afterward.
What to Watch For
- Request loss runs from all insurers for each line of coverage at least 90 days before renewal.
- Check them for mistakes, such as claims that are not yours or closed claims still showing reserves.
- Keep copies each year so you have your own history.
- Prepare a short note on any large claims and the fixes you made.
Common Questions
How do I get my loss runs?
Your agent can usually request them from the insurer on your behalf, or you can ask the insurer directly in writing. Allow some time, since turnaround varies.
Will one claim keep me from getting coverage?
Not usually. Underwriters look at frequency, severity and what you changed. A single claim with a clear fix is viewed very differently from repeated claims.
Last updated October 14, 2026 · Primesure editorial team · How We Write