Why Retroactive date matters
Professional liability coverage often depends on the services described, the date an alleged act occurred, and when a claim is made and reported. Continuity of coverage and accurate service descriptions can be especially important.
The short definition is a starting point, not a coverage determination. The policy’s exact wording, endorsements, exclusions, limits, facts of a loss, and applicable law determine how coverage responds.
Questions to review
- Which professional services are included in the application and policy?
- Is the coverage claims-made, and what retroactive date applies?
- What reporting duties or exclusions could affect a claim?
Put the term in context
Ask where the term appears, what coverage part it affects, and whether it changes a limit, valuation method, duty, exclusion, or claim trigger. Compare the proposal with the final issued policy and keep a record of requested changes.