"Vacant" is defined as follows:
A dwelling that contains no more than 4 residential units
A dwelling that is totally vacant and not undergoing repairs, remodeling or renovations of any kind

The program provides coverage for three types of exposures:
Totally vacant dwellings including qualifying mobile homes and individual condominium/townhouse units
Totally vacant dwellings including qualifying mobile homes and individual condominium/townhouse units that are undergoing
     remodeling or renovations
Builders Risks (new ground up construction)

The following vacant dwellings qualify for the program:
Dwellings with not more than 4 residential units
Dwellings with 3 residential units and 1 commercial unit
Dwellings with 2 residential units and 2 commercial units
A fully skirted mobile home that is anchored down and/or on a permanent foundation
Individual condominium/townhouse units
A building intended for demolition does not qualify as a "vacant" dwelling

The "vacant" dwelling policy is strictly intended to provide coverage for a "vacant" building that will have no occupancy or activity whatsoever except to show to potential buyers or renters. The Vacancy Warranty (F135) attached to the policy suspends coverage if the insured fails to meet this requirement.

The "vacant dwelling renovations policy" does not have the Vacancy Warranty (F135) attached therefore, it allows for activities related to remodeling or renovating.

Coverage is provided using the Commercial Basic Causes of Loss Form CP1010 along with either CP0010 (Building & Pers Prop Coverage Form), CP0020 (Builders Risk Coverage Form) or CP0018 (Condominium Unit Owner Coverage Form).

Yes, vandalism is an included coverage.

The standard term is 12 months. However, 3 and 6 month terms are available in many states. Premium for the first 3 months is always fully (100%) earned (except in Michigan).

Yes, for a 12-month policy term, deposit + 3 installments; for a 6-month policy term, deposit + 1 installment.

$5,000,000 and is subject to underwriting acceptance.

The minimum property deductible is $250 per building. Deductible options up to $5,000 are available.

Yes, the minimum policy premium is $100 per quarter (except in Michigan).

Yes, an 80% coinsurance clause applies to building and personal property; 100% coinsurance applies to renovation values and builders risks.

Property valuation is on an Actual Cash Value basis.

The first premium payment is always due at the time of our binding coverage. Subsequent premium payments will be billed directly to the insured if in installments.

17.5% commission will be paid for submissions processed using our online system (without any Company intervention or referral); 15% commission will be paid for submissions processed needing Company intervention or referral-this includes having the Company print and mail policies to you.

Yes it is. Limits up to $1,000,000 Combined Single Limit (CSL) are available.

Yes we will consider a fire damaged dwelling as long as it can be shown that the claim has been closed and all damages have been repaired.

Length of vacancy is not an issue under this program as long as the property is in good condition, properly secured and checked regularly.

Yes, these situations are eligible for coverage depending on the individual circumstances involved with the current carrier's unwillingness to renew or extend the policy.

To obtain a commercial quote, all you need to do is:
a. Print out the vacant building application (same as the one used for vacant residential dwellings)
b. Complete the application fully and email or fax the completed application to:
J.H. Ferguson & Associates, LLC
e: vacantexpress@jhferg.com
f: 312.705.4289

A commercial building is any building that is used strictly for commercial purposes and does not meet the definition for a dwelling.

Yes, we do write coverage in windstorm areas. However, this coverage will be written on a non-admitted basis and will be subject to increased rates and deductibles to contemplate the severe windstorm exposure.

You must be a licensed agent in the state for which you are placing business. However, J.H. Ferguson holds surplus lines licenses in every state we offer coverage. We will act as your wholesale producer for coverage on a non-admitted basis.

The commission is 15% on non-admitted business.

The non-admitted company is rated "A" (excellent) by A.M. Best.