Abstract

Journal of Actuarial Practice

Volume 5, Number 2, 1997


Pricing Earthquake Exposure Using Modeling

Debra L. Werland and Joseph W. Pitts

Abstract

This paper demonstrates a practical methodology for determining a statewide rate level indication for the earthquake insurance and for determining more equitable territorial relativities within a state. The methodology is based on the output from a certain commercially available earthquake modeling software package. The methodology addresses some of the complex issues involved in pricing earthquake insurance exposure and potential regulatory acceptance. The paper also features a section dealing with the net cost of reinsurance in the proposed direct rates. A final consideration is the treatment of a model’s output when it is believed the modeled results are less than fully credible.

Key words and phrases: catastrophe modeling, reinsurance, target rate of return, zone relativities

Debra L. Werland
United Services Automobile Association,
USAA Building B-1-E,
San Antonio TX 78288.

Joseph W. Pitts
GAINSCO, Inc.,
500 Commerce,
Fort Worth TX 76102

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