Overview of the Program From Access E&S Insurance Services
No risk management strategy is complete without adequate protection against employment practices exposures. Access E&S Insurance Services places stand-alone Employment Practices Liability (EPL) policies through E&S markets to fill gaps that traditional D&O or package policies sometimes leave open. Judgments and settlements in employment disputes are increasing, and many matters resolve with payments borne by the defendant—making a dedicated EPL form a practical solution for your clients.
What this program provides
The program offers modern EPL wording that addresses a broad range of employee-related exposures and often removes allocation and deductible issues common to non-stand-alone placements. Coverage is typically written on a claims-made basis and many markets available through Access E&S provide options such as Claims Expense Outside the Limit of Liability, low per-claim deductibles, and flexible minimum premiums.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
- Harassment
- Wrongful termination
- Discrimination
- Constructive termination
- Hostile work environment
- Failure to hire or promote
- Whistleblower retaliation
- Third-party acts directed at employees
- Punitive damages coverage where allowable by law
Carriers: Various. Because Access E&S is an Excess & Surplus Lines Broker, it can access multiple non-admitted markets to place difficult or specialized EPL risks.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
This program is best for employers who need a stand-alone EPL policy rather than relying solely on D&O or package coverage. Ideal accounts include small to mid-sized private companies and non-profit organizations across industries such as healthcare, hospitality, retail, technology, construction and manufacturing. Many carriers within the program welcome employers with good HR controls and documented personnel practices. Accounts with multiple prior or recent EPL claims, ongoing regulatory investigations, or high-severity exposures may require enhanced underwriting or be declined depending on carrier appetite.
Example scenarios
- You have a mid-sized retail client who wants broader defense coverage for harassment and discrimination claims than their D&O policy offers — this program can provide a targeted EPL solution.
- A startup technology firm with fast hiring and limited HR documentation needs EPL limits and defense outside the limit options to attract executive talent — a stand-alone EPL placement through Access E&S can be quoted for that need.
Underwriting Notes and Minimum Premiums
Most forms are written on a claims-made basis. Available options often include Claims Expense Outside the Limit of Liability and deductibles that can be as low as $1,000 per claim with minimum premiums that vary by carrier and state. Underwriting typically reviews employee counts, HR practices, prior employment-related claims, corporate culture controls (investigations, training, handbook, termination procedures) and any current or prior regulatory activity.
Territories and Availability
This program is available through Access E&S in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, NV, TX, WA. As an E&S broker, Access E&S places coverage on a non-admitted basis with multiple markets as needed; appetite and terms vary by carrier and state.
Why Work With Access E&S Insurance Services on EPL
- Access to multiple E&S markets for flexible wording and capacity.
- Program placement expertise for standalone EPL to avoid allocation issues with D&O policies.
- Responsive underwriting for accounts that need tailored limits, deductible structures, and defense expense options.
- Practical guidance for submissions—agents can expect focused questions on HR controls and claim history to secure the most competitive offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accounts are a good fit for this program?
Small to mid-sized employers and non-profits that need standalone EPL protection—especially where D&O or package policies leave gaps for employee-related exposures. Industries commonly placed include healthcare, hospitality, retail, tech, construction and manufacturing.
Are policies written on a claims-made basis?
Yes. Most carriers in this program issue EPL on a claims-made basis. Many also offer options such as Claims Expense Outside the Limit of Liability; specifics depend on the selected market.
What are typical submission requirements?
Underwriters generally request an application, company payroll and employee counts, details of any prior employment-related claims, copies of employee handbooks and HR procedures, and information about executive and managerial training programs.
Is this program admitted or non-admitted?
Access E&S places EPL through Excess & Surplus Lines markets. Availability and terms are subject to each carrier’s state filings and appetite; the program is offered in AZ, CA, CO, NV, TX and WA.
How do deductibles and minimum premiums typically look?
Deductible options can be competitive—some carriers offer per-claim deductibles as low as $1,000. Minimum premiums and exact deductible structures vary by carrier and state, so provide full submission details to receive accurate indications.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.