Market & Policy · Insurance Term
Schedule Rating (Scheduled Credits and Debits)
Definition
Schedule rating is a way insurers adjust your premium up or down with credits and debits, based on features of your risk the basic rate doesn't capture, such as building upkeep, management or safety programs.
In Plain English
The base rate reflects an average risk in a class. With schedule rating, an underwriter can apply credits for better-than-average features and debits for worse ones, within limits set by the insurer's rating plan.
Factors often include building condition, housekeeping, management experience, safety programs, and the results of a loss control inspection. Each factor usually has a range of possible credits or debits.
Schedule rating is different from an experience modification rate, which uses your past claims and payroll in workers' compensation. Both can apply to the same business.
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Example
Hypothetical and simplified: an apartment complex's base liability premium is $20,000. The underwriter applies a 10% credit for new lighting, controlled access and a strong maintenance program, and a 5% debit for an older pool. The net 5% credit brings the premium to $19,000.
What to Watch For
- Tell your agent about improvements — new roofs, wiring, security and safety programs.
- Ask whether your premium includes schedule credits or debits, and why.
- Fix items flagged in inspections, since they can lead to debits later.
- Provide documents and photos that show your property's condition.
Last updated October 14, 2026 · Primesure editorial team · How We Write