---
title: "Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance vs Markel Insurance"
description: "Compare Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance and Markel for cyber liability, including quote access, policy terms and account service."
canonical: "https://spot.insure/compare/berkshire-hathaway-specialty-insurance-vs-markel"
page-type: "provider-comparison"
updated-at: "2026-09-30"
---

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# Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance vs Markel Insurance

Compare Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance and Markel for cyber liability, including quote access, policy terms and account service.

## Before You Quote

Ask each provider about eligibility, the issuing insurer, policy wording, limits, retentions, exclusions and costs for your business.

## Highlights

BHSI’s U.S. materials identify a broad commercial and specialty business with industry focus varying by product segment. Markel’s U.S. small-business description names child care and enrichment, commercial and residential services, sports and fitness, and manufacturing. Both catalogues list Cyber liability, Technology errors and omissions (E&O), General liability; compare the actual product, issuer and service route for your business before treating those labels as equivalent. [1](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Interactive-AAG.pdf "At A Glance") [23](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/network-security-privacy-policy/ "Professional First Network Security & Privacy Policy") [18](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Professional-First-Professional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf "Professional First Professional Liability Overview") [32](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business "Small Business Insurance") [25](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1096343/000109634326000020/mkl-20251231.htm "Markel Group Inc. 2025 Form 10-K") [40](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/cyber "Cyber Insurance Coverage")

## Provider Reliability Assessments

These sourced assessments are shown for context; this comparison does not select a winner.

### Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance

Role: Insurance carrier.

Carrier & MGA Spot Score: **7.0/10** (partial score; 85% of this role's weighting included). Assessed 2026-09-29; review due 2026-10-29. Excluded factors: Carrier-Network Strength (The supplied evidence did not support a score for Carrier-Network Strength; this factor is excluded, not scored as zero. Canonical evidence gaps: The AM Best rating carries a group-affiliation code, so it reflects the Berkshire Hathaway group rather than a standalone view.; No NAIC complaint index or state complaint data for BHSIC was found, so service outcomes are not measured.; Which BHSI-branded product is written on BHSIC paper versus an affiliate (Direct, Homestate, travel programs) is not mapped by product.; A state-by-state license lookup was not run; the all-states statement comes from the Nebraska exam report.; Non-U.S. regulators (FCA and PRA for the U.K. entity, Singapore, Australia and others) were not searched.).

Read the [full reliability assessment](https://spot.insure/insurance-providers/berkshire-hathaway-specialty-insurance/reliability).

### Markel Insurance

Role: Insurance carrier.

Carrier & MGA Spot Score: **7.1/10** (partial score; 85% of this role's weighting included). Assessed 2026-09-29; review due 2026-10-29. Excluded factors: Carrier-Network Strength (The supplied evidence did not support a score for Carrier-Network Strength; this factor is excluded, not scored as zero. Canonical evidence gaps: Which Markel insurer issues a given product in a given state is not mapped on public pages. Use the insurer named on your quote or policy.; Only New York and California regulator records were opened for Markel Insurance Company. Authority in the other states is Markel's own statement.; The AM Best release and rating page could not be opened by automated tools this session. The rating is taken from the release read earlier and from Markel's own table.; Penalty amounts and violation details for the New York consent order and the Texas orders could not be fully read. A second Texas order (2024) and a 2011 Florida consent order were located but not read.; A five-year search across every state was not done, and California's formal enforcement search would not return results.; Nebraska's latest 2025 summary was blank, so the most recent statutory financials shown are for 2024.; No reinsurance panel, third-party claims administrator or claim-decision authority is publicly mapped.; No independent measure of commercial claim service was found.).

Read the [full reliability assessment](https://spot.insure/insurance-providers/markel/reliability).

## Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Reviews

Review Score: not enough ratings.

The public ratings for Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance are low but thin: Trustpilot shows 2.1 out of 5 from 9 reviews and BBB shows 1 out of 5 from 6. Both mix travel and commercial customers, so we don't count them in a score.

- Trustpilot: TrustScore 2.1 (out of 5); 9 reviews. Trustpilot profile for bhspecialty.com, accessed 2026-09-29. Its small review set mixes travel-policy and other customer accounts; it is user-generated and unverified, and does not establish commercial-policy outcomes or representativeness. Period: Displayed when checked 2026-09-29. Checked 2026-09-29. [Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Reviews](https://www.trustpilot.com/review/bhspecialty.com)
- BBB: Customer review average 1 (out of 5 stars); 6 reviews. BBB page for BHSI headquarters and corporate-owned locations, accessed 2026-09-29. The page’s six customer reviews mix travel and commercial narratives; BBB says third-party information is not verified. BBB’s business letter grade is separate from these customer reviews. Period: Displayed when checked 2026-09-29. Checked 2026-09-29. [Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance — BBB Reviews](https://www.bbb.org/us/ma/boston/profile/insurance-agency/berkshire-hathaway-specialty-insurance-0021-439678/customer-reviews)

Reviewed 2026-09-29. [Read the sourced review](https://spot.insure/insurance-providers/berkshire-hathaway-specialty-insurance/reviews).

## Markel Insurance Reviews

Review Score: 7.5 / 10 from 2 rated sources, equally weighted.

There is little public customer feedback on Markel. Trustpilot shows 2.5 out of 5 from just 5 reviews, and BBB lists 12 complaints closed in the last three years.

- J.D. Power: Commercial Lines Insurers agent satisfaction score 726 (out of 1,000). 2022 commercial-lines independent-agent satisfaction study and 2025 small-commercial customer study; these use different populations and measures Period: 2022. Checked 2026-09-29. [2025 U.S. Small Commercial Insurance Study](https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2025-us-small-commercial-insurance-study); [2022 U.S. Independent Agent Satisfaction Study](https://www.jdpower.com/sites/default/files/file/2022-10/2022134%20U.S.%20Independent%20Agent.pdf)
- Trustpilot: TrustScore 2.5 (out of 5); 5 reviews. Trustpilot brand-level page for markel.com. It mixes products and is not mapped to one legal insurer. Checked 2026-09-29. [Markel Reviews](https://www.trustpilot.com/review/markel.com)
- BBB: BBB business grade A+. BBB business profile for Markel Insurance Company headquarters/corporate-owned locations; review and complaint submissions may include other products and affiliates Checked 2026-09-29. [Markel Insurance Company Business Profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/va/glen-allen/profile/insurance-companies/markel-insurance-company-0603-4017547); [Markel Insurance Company Complaints](https://www.bbb.org/us/va/glen-allen/profile/insurance-companies/markel-insurance-company-0603-4017547/complaints)
- BBB: Complaints 12; 12 reviews. BBB profile for Markel Insurance Company; complaints may include other Markel products and affiliates and BBB says not all submissions are displayed. Period: last 3 years, as displayed 2026-09-29. Checked 2026-09-29. [Markel Insurance Company Complaints](https://www.bbb.org/us/va/glen-allen/profile/insurance-companies/markel-insurance-company-0603-4017547/complaints)

Reviewed 2026-09-29. [Read the sourced review](https://spot.insure/insurance-providers/markel/reviews).

## Introduction

BHSI's U.S. industry focus spans real estate, public entities, financial institutions, healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, logistics, transportation, energy, and technology. For a business considering cyber liability, the practical difference is the entry point: Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance describes online entry with an agent or adviser available, while Markel distributes through wholesale and retail channels. Compare what fits your buying team and operations, then verify the actual product and terms. [1](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Interactive-AAG.pdf "At A Glance") [25](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1096343/000109634326000020/mkl-20251231.htm "Markel Group Inc. 2025 Form 10-K") [23](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/network-security-privacy-policy/ "Professional First Network Security & Privacy Policy") [18](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Professional-First-Professional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf "Professional First Professional Liability Overview") [40](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/cyber "Cyber Insurance Coverage")



## Coverage Comparison

| Coverage Type | Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance | Markel Insurance |
| --- | --- | --- |
| [Builders risk](https://spot.insure/coverage/builders-risk) | Listed: BHSI’s current U.S. Builder’s Risk page lists construction-project coverage, including hot testing/commissioning, delay and soft-cost features, and selectively considered Master Builder’s Risk programs. Project scope, eligibility, terms and issuer remain policy-specific. [22](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-builders-risk/ "Builder’s Risk") | Listed: Markel builders risk [45](https://www.markel.com/us/industries/construction/large-builders-risk "Builders Risk Insurance") |
| [Cargo and transit](https://spot.insure/coverage/cargo-transit) | Listed: BHSI's current Marine catalog lists Ocean Cargo, Stock Throughputs, and Project Cargo. The older US-12/22-A guide lists Project Cargo as out of appetite, so confirm its current status; BHSI lists Inland Marine separately. [9](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-marine/ "Marine") [10](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Ocean-Marine-Cargo-Overview-US.pdf "Ocean Marine Cargo Overview") | Listed: Markel cargo and transit coverage [44](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/property/inland-marine "Commercial Inland Marine Insurance") |
| [Commercial property](https://spot.insure/coverage/commercial-property) | Listed: BHSI lists all-risk commercial property and selected single-peril options, including earthquake, flood, and windstorm. [11](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-property/ "Property") [12](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Property-Appetite-Guide-US.pdf "General Property Appetite Guide") | Listed: Markel commercial property [43](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/property/commercial-and-risk-management-property "Commercial Property Insurance") |
| [Crime](https://spot.insure/coverage/crime) | Listed: BHSI lists Commercial Crime within its Executive First Private Company Portfolio’s comprehensive form, alongside D&O, employment-practices, fiduciary and employed-lawyer coverages. The page targets private companies with at least $10 million in revenue; portfolio limits up to $50 million may be shared or separate and are not a crime-specific limit. Crime coverage is distinct from fidelity bonds. [14](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/public-company/private-company-portfolio/ "Executive First Private Company Portfolio") | Listed: Markel Cyber 360 eCrime component (standalone product not established) [40](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/cyber "Cyber Insurance Coverage") |
| [Cyber liability](https://spot.insure/coverage/cyber) | Listed: BHSI markets a U.S. Network Security & Privacy product with third-party breach, response-expense and network-interruption features; its Professional First overview also describes stand-alone Cyber and blended E&O/Cyber forms. Product form, eligibility, terms and issuer depend on the risk and policy. [23](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/network-security-privacy-policy/ "Professional First Network Security & Privacy Policy") [18](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Professional-First-Professional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf "Professional First Professional Liability Overview") | Listed: Markel Cyber 360 [40](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/cyber "Cyber Insurance Coverage") |
| [Directors and officers](https://spot.insure/coverage/directors-officers) | Listed: Executive First D&O liability materials describe separate public-company and private-company products. [13](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/public-company/do-liability-insurance/ "Executive First Directors & Officers Liability Insurance") [14](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/public-company/private-company-portfolio/ "Executive First Private Company Portfolio") | Listed: Markel private and nonprofit D&O [42](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/management-liability/private-and-nonprofit "Private and Nonprofit Management Liability Insurance") |
| [Employment practices liability](https://spot.insure/coverage/employment-practices) | Listed: BHSI lists employment-practices liability within its Executive First Private Company Portfolio’s comprehensive form, alongside D&O, fiduciary, crime and employed-lawyer coverages. The page targets private companies with at least $10 million in revenue; portfolio limits up to $50 million may be shared or separate and are not an EPL-specific limit. [14](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/public-company/private-company-portfolio/ "Executive First Private Company Portfolio") | Listed: Markel employment practices liability [42](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/management-liability/private-and-nonprofit "Private and Nonprofit Management Liability Insurance") |
| [Equipment breakdown](https://spot.insure/coverage/equipment-breakdown) | Not listed | Listed: Equipment-breakdown option within property coverage; standalone product not established [38](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/small-business-casualty-and-property "Small Business Casualty and Property Insurance") |
| [Fiduciary liability](https://spot.insure/coverage/fiduciary) | Listed: BHSI lists fiduciary liability within its Executive First Private Company Portfolio’s comprehensive form, alongside D&O, employment-practices, crime and employed-lawyer coverages. The page targets private companies with at least $10 million in revenue; portfolio limits up to $50 million may be shared or separate and are not a fiduciary-specific limit. [14](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/public-company/private-company-portfolio/ "Executive First Private Company Portfolio") | Listed: Markel fiduciary liability [42](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/management-liability/private-and-nonprofit "Private and Nonprofit Management Liability Insurance") |
| [General liability](https://spot.insure/coverage/general-liability) | Listed: BHSI lists primary general liability, with contractor and pollution features described in its casualty materials. [15](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Casualty-Appetite-Guide-US.pdf "Casualty Appetite Guide - U.S.") [16](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-casualty/ "Casualty") | Listed: Markel small-business casualty and property [38](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/small-business-casualty-and-property "Small Business Casualty and Property Insurance") |
| [Hired and non-owned auto](https://spot.insure/coverage/hired-non-owned-auto) | Not listed | Listed: Hired/non-owned auto option in small-business casualty; not commercial auto [38](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/small-business-casualty-and-property "Small Business Casualty and Property Insurance") |
| [Liquor liability](https://spot.insure/coverage/liquor-liability) | Not listed | Listed: Markel liquor liability [38](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/small-business-casualty-and-property "Small Business Casualty and Property Insurance") |
| [Management liability](https://spot.insure/coverage/management-liability) | Not listed | Listed: Markel management liability [42](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/management-liability/private-and-nonprofit "Private and Nonprofit Management Liability Insurance") |
| [Media liability](https://spot.insure/coverage/media) | Listed: BHSI’s Professional First overview names Media Liability, and its architects/engineers product describes media liability only within a specialized combined design-industry form. The overview’s catalogue listing does not establish standalone terms or current account availability. [18](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Professional-First-Professional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf "Professional First Professional Liability Overview") [19](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/professional-firsttm-architects-engineers-and-consultants-professional-liability/ "Professional First Architects, Engineers and Consultants Professional Liability") | Listed: Markel Cyber 360 media liability component (standalone product not established) [40](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/cyber "Cyber Insurance Coverage") |
| [Product liability](https://spot.insure/coverage/product-liability) | Listed: BHSI lists primary products and completed-operations liability as a casualty product. [15](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Casualty-Appetite-Guide-US.pdf "Casualty Appetite Guide - U.S.") [16](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-casualty/ "Casualty") | Listed: Markel products liability [38](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/small-business-casualty-and-property "Small Business Casualty and Property Insurance") |
| [Professional errors and omissions (E&O)](https://spot.insure/coverage/professional-errors-omissions) | Listed: Professional First materials describe a professional-liability portfolio with several professions and service types. [17](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/ "Professional First Professional Liability") [18](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Professional-First-Professional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf "Professional First Professional Liability Overview") [19](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/professional-firsttm-architects-engineers-and-consultants-professional-liability/ "Professional First Architects, Engineers and Consultants Professional Liability") | Listed: Markel ProBiz miscellaneous E&O [41](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/probiz "ProBiz | Professional Liability Coverage") |
| [Representations and warranties](https://spot.insure/coverage/representations-warranties) | Listed: BHSI lists Representations & Warranties Insurance within its Transactional Liability products. [20](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/transactional-liability/ "Transactional Liability") [21](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Transactional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf "Transactional Liability Overview") | Not listed |
| [Surety bonds](https://spot.insure/coverage/surety-bonds) | Listed: BHSI’s U.S. Surety page lists performance, payment, advance-payment, maintenance, supply and warranty bonds for contractor and construction-supplier accounts. Bond obligations depend on the bond form, principal, obligee and jurisdiction; this catalogue listing does not establish bond approval or terms. [24](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-surety/ "Surety") | Listed: Markel Surety bonds [47](https://www.markel.com/us/surety "Markel Surety") |
| [Technology errors and omissions (E&O)](https://spot.insure/coverage/technology-errors-omissions) | Listed: Professional First materials identify Technology E&O as a professional-liability product. [18](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Professional-First-Professional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf "Professional First Professional Liability Overview") [19](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/professional-firsttm-architects-engineers-and-consultants-professional-liability/ "Professional First Architects, Engineers and Consultants Professional Liability") | Listed: Markel Cyber 360 technology professional liability component (standalone product not established) [40](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/cyber "Cyber Insurance Coverage") |
| [Tools, equipment and inland marine](https://spot.insure/coverage/inland-marine) | Listed: BHSI lists inland transit, motor-truck cargo, warehouse legal liability, contractor equipment, and floaters under Inland Marine. [9](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-marine/ "Marine") | Listed: Markel commercial inland marine [44](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/property/inland-marine "Commercial Inland Marine Insurance") |
| [Umbrella and excess liability](https://spot.insure/coverage/umbrella-excess) | Listed: BHSI lists lead umbrella and excess casualty within its U.S. casualty products. [15](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Casualty-Appetite-Guide-US.pdf "Casualty Appetite Guide - U.S.") [16](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-casualty/ "Casualty") | Listed: Markel excess casualty and umbrella [46](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/casualty/excess-casualty "Excess Casualty Insurance") |
| [Workers’ compensation](https://spot.insure/coverage/workers-compensation) | Not listed | Listed: Markel Workers Compensation [39](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/workers-compensation "Workers Compensation Insurance") |

A listing may be arranged through an insurer or partner. “Not listed” means this catalogue has no separate offering recorded; ask the provider whether it can quote the coverage and request the policy terms.



## Optional Spot Service Handoff

Spot can help prepare applications, coordinate brokers, and compare proposals. If that work is needed, collect the company's task, known deadline, current broker, and open questions for a [free consultation](https://spot.insure/pricing.md). The company decides what to buy; Spot does not automatically bind coverage.

## Key Differences Between Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance and Markel Insurance

### Online Entry Still Needs a Binding Route

BHSI’s U.S. At A Glance section (version 2026-8-03 A) lists commercial property, casualty, healthcare professional liability, executive and professional lines, surety, travel, programs, employer stop loss, and homeowners insurance. The guide is informational, not policy coverage, and its brand-level list does not identify the insurer on a particular policy. BHSI's website terms say online application or quote submissions are informational and nonbinding; only contracted agents of the National Indemnity group may bind coverage, issue policies or certificates, or change coverage. Group companies' authority also varies by state, so the terms do not show that every application must begin through an agent. Markel describes Markel Insurance as the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc., a Virginia holding company. Markel’s U.S. Wholesale and Specialty division distributes through wholesale and retail channels, with limited small-account binding authority; some direct marketing applies to certain admitted products and programs. [1](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Interactive-AAG.pdf "At A Glance") [5](https://www.bhspecialty.com/terms-conditions/ "Terms of Service") [25](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1096343/000109634326000020/mkl-20251231.htm "Markel Group Inc. 2025 Form 10-K")

That difference matters if you want to work through an existing adviser, compare several insurers, or start from a self-service application. Ask whether your chosen producer can access the Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance product and the relevant Markel division for your state, and who is responsible for presenting the final terms. A brand name or online intake does not identify the insurer that will issue the policy. [5](https://www.bhspecialty.com/terms-conditions/ "Terms of Service") [25](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1096343/000109634326000020/mkl-20251231.htm "Markel Group Inc. 2025 Form 10-K")

### Use Shared Lines to Frame the Quote

Both companies list Cyber liability, Technology errors and omissions (E&O), General liability. The cyber liability description for Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance says “BHSI markets a U.S. Network Security & Privacy product with third-party breach, response-expense and network-interruption features; its Professional First overview also describes stand-alone Cyber and blended E&O/Cyber forms. Product form, eligibility, terms and issuer depend on the risk and policy”; Markel’s listing describes “Markel Cyber 360.” The difference can matter: one description may place a line inside a broader product or limit it to a component, while the other describes a separate offer. Confirm the exact policy structure and wording on each quote. [23](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/network-security-privacy-policy/ "Professional First Network Security & Privacy Policy") [18](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Professional-First-Professional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf "Professional First Professional Liability Overview") [40](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/cyber "Cyber Insurance Coverage") [19](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/professional-firsttm-architects-engineers-and-consultants-professional-liability/ "Professional First Architects, Engineers and Consultants Professional Liability") [15](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Casualty-Appetite-Guide-US.pdf "Casualty Appetite Guide - U.S.") [16](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-casualty/ "Casualty")

Ask each respondent to name the exact product and form for cyber liability, then show how the proposal treats your revenue, services, locations, contracts and any physical operations. If the proposal places other lines separately, request a schedule that makes the separate policies and any intended coordination visible. Product names and catalogue entries alone cannot establish matched limits, exclusions or conditions.

### Compare the Work After the Quote

The service arrangements also differ after submission:

BHSI’s U.S. Claims Service Standards document (version US 2024-10-07A) says coverage issues or reservations are discussed directly with insureds, brokers, and relevant parties, and brokers and policyholders are kept involved during third-party settlement discussions. Markel describes commercial-agent portals for authorized users, including functions for listed lines; its U.S. account page separately lists documents, proof of insurance and payments for covered business products. [8](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Claims-Excellence-US.pdf "Claims Excellence — United States") [34](https://www.markel.com/us/for-agents-and-brokers/commercial-lines "Commercial Lines Agents & Broker Support") [35](https://www.markel.com/us/my-account "My Account")

Confirm who handles certificates, midterm changes, billing, renewal information and claim notification for the policy you are considering. If Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance’s service is tied to an adviser or portal, ask whether your account and the proposed line qualify for it; do the same for the Markel product. Neither a group-wide service description nor a portal feature establishes a turnaround time or claim outcome. [8](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Claims-Excellence-US.pdf "Claims Excellence — United States") [34](https://www.markel.com/us/for-agents-and-brokers/commercial-lines "Commercial Lines Agents & Broker Support")

## What to Confirm in Quotes

- Which exact product and policy form is proposed for cyber liability, and what limits, retentions, exclusions and endorsements apply to our operations?
- Who is the licensed producer and which legal insurer would issue each policy in our state? Is the placement admitted or surplus lines?
- What information and documents should we prepare, who will submit them, and what still needs underwriting approval before binding?
- Who will service the policy after binding, and what account, renewal, certificate and claim-notification functions are available for this product?

Start with Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance if its stated customer focus or buying route matches how your team wants to arrange this line. Ask Markel for a proposal when one of its listed small-business or specialty classes fits the exposure. Compare the named insurer, policy structure, state route and account-service responsibilities before choosing between them. [1](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Interactive-AAG.pdf "At A Glance") [32](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business "Small Business Insurance")

## Compare Services

What each provider documents about the services you may need.

| Criteria | Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance | Markel Insurance |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Business role | BHSI’s U.S. At A Glance section (version 2026-8-03 A) lists commercial property, casualty, healthcare professional liability, executive and professional lines, surety, travel, programs, employer stop loss, and homeowners insurance. The guide is informational, not policy coverage, and its brand-level list does not identify the insurer on a particular policy. [1](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Interactive-AAG.pdf "At A Glance") [2](https://www.bhspecialty.com/about-us/ "About Us") [5](https://www.bhspecialty.com/terms-conditions/ "Terms of Service") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: A description of BHSI's U.S. line list in its U.S. At A Glance section (version 2026-8-03 A) only. The guide says its descriptions are informational and are not coverage; its brand-level list does not assign an issuing insurer to a particular product or policy. This is not a claim that one legal insurer issues every BHSI product.; verified: 2026-09-29.)<br><br>Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (BHSIC) identifies itself in its Singapore-branch public disclosure as a Nebraska-domiciled direct property and casualty insurer, wholly owned by National Indemnity Company, which is wholly owned by Berkshire Hathaway Incorporated. The Singapore-branch disclosure states this ownership chain. A Missouri Department of Insurance record separately lists BHSIC as active, NAIC 22276, and Property and Casualty in Missouri. Neither source identifies BHSIC as the issuer of every BHSI-branded U.S. policy. [3](https://www.bhspecialty.com/asia/singapore-products/berkshire-hathaway-specialty-insurance-singapore-branch/ "Public Disclosure — Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Singapore Branch") [4](https://insurance.mo.gov/find-insurance-company/company-details?id=104347139 "Company Details — Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company") [5](https://www.bhspecialty.com/terms-conditions/ "Terms of Service") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: Company-reported corporate identity and ownership in BHSI's Singapore-branch public disclosure, corroborated for company identity and Missouri P&C authority by the Missouri Department of Insurance record accessed 2026-09-28. Neither source maps BHSIC as issuer for every BHSI-branded U.S. product; use policy-specific documents for that.; verified: 2026-09-28.) | Markel describes Markel Insurance as the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc., a Virginia holding company. Markel Group's FY2025 filing identifies multiple underwriting subsidiaries. The insurer for a specific policy depends on the product, state and current quote or policy disclosures; Markel Insurance is not one standalone legal insurer. [25](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1096343/000109634326000020/mkl-20251231.htm "Markel Group Inc. 2025 Form 10-K") [26](https://www.markel.com/about-us "About us") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: U.S. commercial-insurance identity and parent/business relationship; not a product-specific issuer assignment.; verified: 2026-09-29.) |
| Customer focus | BHSI's U.S. industry focus spans real estate, public entities, financial institutions, healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, logistics, transportation, energy, and technology. The at-a-glance guide associates these industries with particular product segments; it does not say every segment serves every listed industry. [1](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Interactive-AAG.pdf "At A Glance") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: Company-stated industry focus in the United States section of the At A Glance (U.S. section version 2026-8-03 A); industry lists are segment-specific, not a universal eligibility statement.; verified: 2026-09-29.)<br><br>Within its U.S. executive-lines commercial and financial segment, BHSI lists publicly traded and large privately owned commercial firms; investment, money-center, national, and regional banks; asset managers; and insurance companies and brokerages. The size description applies to the commercial-firm entry, not every listed institution or all BHSI products. [1](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Interactive-AAG.pdf "At A Glance") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: Only the U.S. Executive Lines, Commercial & Financial segment, At A Glance p. 50. The “publicly traded and large privately owned” qualifier attaches to the Commercial Firms bullet only.; verified: 2026-09-28.) | Markel's U.S. small-business page lists child care and enrichment, commercial and residential services, sports and fitness, and manufacturing among the segments it describes. Separately, its FY2025 filing describes Markel Insurance's global specialty business as underwriting hard-to-place risks; that wording is not specific to U.S. Wholesale and Specialty. [32](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business "Small Business Insurance") [25](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1096343/000109634326000020/mkl-20251231.htm "Markel Group Inc. 2025 Form 10-K") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: Company-stated U.S. small-business examples and separate global business characterization; neither establishes eligibility.; verified: 2026-09-29.) |
| Coverage lines |  |  |
| Application process | BHSI's website terms say online application or quote submissions are informational and nonbinding; only contracted agents of the National Indemnity group may bind coverage, issue policies or certificates, or change coverage. Group companies' authority also varies by state, so the terms do not show that every application must begin through an agent. [5](https://www.bhspecialty.com/terms-conditions/ "Terms of Service") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: The website's own online submissions and binding authority described by BHSI's terms; not a statement about every product's intake process or a claim that purchase can be completed online.; verified: 2026-09-28.) | Markel's FY2025 filing says U.S. Wholesale and Specialty distributes through wholesale and retail channels on admitted and excess-and-surplus bases, including limited small-account binding authority. In 2025, 71% of this division's gross written premium was placed through wholesale brokers, 26% through retail agents and brokers, and the remainder through alternative channels. Certain admitted products and programs are marketed directly to consumers, but that does not establish online purchase or binding for every product. [25](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1096343/000109634326000020/mkl-20251231.htm "Markel Group Inc. 2025 Form 10-K") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: FY2025 Markel Insurance U.S. Wholesale and Specialty distribution; not the whole Markel Insurance business.; verified: 2026-09-29.)<br><br>For workers' compensation, Markel directs applicants to submit an online application or contact an appointed agent to request a quote; the reviewed page does not establish that purchase and binding are completed online. [33](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/workers-compensation "Workers Compensation Insurance") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: Markel U.S. workers' compensation page only; route to request a quote.; verified: 2026-09-29.)<br><br>Agencies can request a Markel appointment; Markel says appointments are made by affiliated insurer and product, and producers must hold the required state license. This is a producer onboarding route, not an insured's application path. [36](https://www.markel.com/us/for-agents-and-brokers/request-appointment-with-markel "Request appointment with Markel") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: Commercial agency appointment information; not retail purchase process.; verified: 2026-09-29.) |
| Servicing and renewals | BHSI’s U.S. Claims Service Standards document (version US 2024-10-07A) says coverage issues or reservations are discussed directly with insureds, brokers, and relevant parties, and brokers and policyholders are kept involved during third-party settlement discussions. These are company-stated process standards, not measured claims outcomes. [8](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Claims-Excellence-US.pdf "Claims Excellence — United States") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: Company-stated U.S. claims-service standards in version US 2024-10-07A; accessed 2026-09-28. Process commitments are not evidence of measured service or outcomes.; verified: 2026-09-28.)<br><br>BHSI's U.S. website terms and claims page reviewed on September 28, 2026 do not explain how commercial policy renewals are quoted or completed. The U.S. product directory opened for this correction displays category navigation, but it is not a review of the linked product pages. These limited checks do not establish that renewal support or a renewal route is unavailable. [6](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/ "United States") [5](https://www.bhspecialty.com/terms-conditions/ "Terms of Service") [7](https://www.bhspecialty.com/claims/ "Claims — United States") (Evidence: Not found in reviewed sources; scope: A narrowly scoped research gap in the opened U.S. website terms and claims page and the U.S. product-directory landing page, checked 2026-09-28. The directory landing page provides category navigation only; linked product pages and account-specific servicing routes were not reviewed for this claim. This does not mean BHSI lacks renewal support.; verified: 2026-09-28.) | Markel describes agent portals for authorized commercial users to quote and bind listed lines and access account history, billing, claims details and policy documents. The page does not establish that every product supports every function. [34](https://www.markel.com/us/for-agents-and-brokers/commercial-lines "Commercial Lines Agents & Broker Support") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: Commercial-agent portals; available functions vary by portal and product.; verified: 2026-09-29.)<br><br>Markel's U.S. account page lists policy documents, proof-of-insurance downloads, payments and automatic payments for covered business products and directs customers with unlisted products to the agent on the policy. Renewal handling and renewal terms were not established in this review. [35](https://www.markel.com/us/my-account "My Account") (Evidence: Company-reported; scope: Public portal description; not all products necessarily use the portal.; verified: 2026-09-29.) |

## Related Reading

- [What Is Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance?](https://spot.insure/insurance-providers/berkshire-hathaway-specialty-insurance)
- [Markel Insurance: Specialty Business and Products](https://spot.insure/insurance-providers/markel)

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## Sources

### [Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Official Website](https://www.bhspecialty.com/)

1. [At A Glance](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Interactive-AAG.pdf). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; United States section, zero-based PDF pages 49–53 (viewer pages 50–54): product/industry lists on pages 49–50; U.S. disclosure/version footer on page 53 is 2026-8-03 A. The 2026-09-14 A footer is on preceding European page 48, not the U.S. section. Accessed 2026-09-29.
2. [About Us](https://www.bhspecialty.com/about-us/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; About BHSI; company profile page re-opened through official site on 2026-09-28; company says it is part of National Indemnity group. Accessed 2026-09-28.
3. [Public Disclosure — Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Singapore Branch](https://www.bhspecialty.com/asia/singapore-products/berkshire-hathaway-specialty-insurance-singapore-branch/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Singapore branch public disclosure, Company Profile ¶¶ 1–2; direct page opened 2026-09-28. ¶ 1 identifies BHSIC as a Nebraska-domiciled direct P&C insurer; ¶ 2 states BHSIC is wholly owned by National Indemnity Company, itself wholly owned by Berkshire Hathaway Incorporated. Accessed 2026-09-28.
4. [Company Details — Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company](https://insurance.mo.gov/find-insurance-company/company-details?id=104347139). Missouri Department of Insurance; Company Details fields: legal name, active license status, NAIC number 22276, and Property and Casualty description; Missouri regulator record also lists 2025 property-casualty lines. Accessed 2026-09-28. Accessed 2026-09-28.
5. [Terms of Service](https://www.bhspecialty.com/terms-conditions/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Important Information Concerning Use of this Web Site, paragraphs 2–4; nonbinding submissions, contracted-agent authority, state variation, product availability and policy-specific terms. Accessed 2026-09-28.
6. [United States](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; United States products directory, opened 2026-09-28. Rendered page lists U.S. category links and Casualty/Property headings (lines 6–44); this directory view is navigation, not the linked product pages or a full review of product materials. Accessed 2026-09-28.
7. [Claims — United States](https://www.bhspecialty.com/claims/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Claims Reporting, lines 34–91; separate product-specific directions, then “All other claims” email, 24-hour toll-free phone, postal/overnight mail. Accessed 2026-09-28.
8. [Claims Excellence — United States](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Claims-Excellence-US.pdf). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Claims Service Standards, version US 2024-10-07A in footer/document end; page 2 lines 30–34 describe coverage discussion and third-party settlement communications. Accessed 2026-09-28.
9. [Marine](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-marine/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Inland and ocean marine product list, covered property classes and target businesses; lines 18-69. Accessed 2026-09-28.
10. [Ocean Marine Cargo Overview](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Ocean-Marine-Cargo-Overview-US.pdf). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Two-page U.S. marketing PDF marked US-12/22-A; product types lines 14-20; ocean marine cargo appetite, capacity and placement lines 43-57; out-of-appetite and target risk characteristics lines 58-72; terms disclaimer lines 103-114. Accessed 2026-09-28.
11. [Property](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-property/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; All-risk, single-peril, catastrophe, inland/ocean marine and builder's risk offerings; target account descriptions. Accessed 2026-09-28.
12. [General Property Appetite Guide](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Property-Appetite-Guide-US.pdf). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Page 1: minimum premium, product/forms, territory, attachment and working capacity; page 2 footer identifies 2026-02-10 A; lines 0-9, 89-99. Accessed 2026-09-28.
13. [Executive First Directors & Officers Liability Insurance](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/public-company/do-liability-insurance/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Product Highlights: government investigations, shareholder derivative actions, late-notice qualification, defense counsel selection; Top Targets: large commercial and financial firms, lines 6–19. Accessed 2026-09-28.
14. [Executive First Private Company Portfolio](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/public-company/private-company-portfolio/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Product Highlights: D&O, EPL, Fiduciary, Commercial Crime and Employed Lawyers in one comprehensive form; shared or separate limits to $50m; EPL First services. Top Targets: private companies at $10m+ revenues and listed industries, lines 11–25. Portfolio limit is not a separate line limit. Accessed 2026-09-28.
15. [Casualty Appetite Guide - U.S.](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Casualty-Appetite-Guide-US.pdf) Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Casualty appetite PDF page 1: $50K minimum premium, GL/products/lead umbrella/excess lines, selected $10M excess capacity, placement forms and target/avoided classes; guide dated 2026-07-15. Accessed 2026-09-28.
16. [Casualty](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-casualty/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; US casualty product lines and features: Primary General Liability lines 10-34; Primary Products/Completed Operations Liability 35-44; Lead Umbrella and Excess Casualty 46-63. Accessed 2026-09-28.
17. [Professional First Professional Liability](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; U.S. Professional Liability landing page links Professional Liability / Network Security & Privacy, stand-alone Network Security & Privacy, and Architects, Engineers and Consultants PL, lines 6–15; footer copyright © 2026. Accessed 2026-09-28.
18. [Professional First Professional Liability Overview](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Professional-First-Professional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; PDF pp.1–2: claims group and reporting; primary blended E&O/Cyber and stand-alone Cyber forms; line capacity statement; named Lawyers PL, Technology E&O, Miscellaneous PL, Media Liability, Network Security & Privacy; named technology-services target types and selection categories; dated 2026-06-03-A. Group capacity not a line policy limit. Source version: 2026-06-03-A. Accessed 2026-09-28.
19. [Professional First Architects, Engineers and Consultants Professional Liability](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/professional-firsttm-architects-engineers-and-consultants-professional-liability/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Product Highlights: professional/pollution liability; media, technology and cyber/network security/privacy liability; direct breach/extortion expenses; risk services; primary/excess and project-specific product availability; target professions, lines 6–29. Its combined-form technology feature is not itself a standalone Tech E&O statement. Accessed 2026-09-28.
20. [Transactional Liability](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/transactional-liability/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Product Highlights list R&W, tax, contingent-liability and class-action-settlement insurance; Top Targets list manufacturing, financial institutions, technology, real estate, energy, healthcare and retail, lines 6–27. The target list is for the transactional-liability portfolio, not exclusive R&W eligibility. Accessed 2026-09-28.
21. [Transactional Liability Overview](https://www.bhspecialty.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing/Transactional-Liability-Overview-US.pdf). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; PDF pp.1–2: R&W, tax, contingent-liability, and class-action-settlement products; portfolio-wide primary/excess and up-to-$25m capacity; premiums/retentions vary by transaction/risk; portfolio appetite and in-house claims group; R&W buyer-use descriptions; dated 2025-05-16-A. Product-specific limits and final terms not stated. Source version: 2025-05-16-A. Accessed 2026-09-28.
22. [Builder’s Risk](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-builders-risk/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Current U.S. page: all-risk, hot testing/commissioning, delay/startup/soft costs, single-peril/DIC primary/excess; separate EAR and CAR target categories; Master Builder’s Risk selectively considered, lines 6–35. Reopened 2026-09-28. Accessed 2026-09-28.
23. [Professional First Network Security & Privacy Policy](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-executive-and-professional-lines/professional-liability/network-security-privacy-policy/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Product Highlights: third-party breach exposures, regulatory investigations/fines/penalties, direct breach/extortion expenses, electronic-content media liability, business interruption from network-security failure, eRiskHub; Top Targets: professional-services firms, lines 6–19. Accessed 2026-09-28.
24. [Surety](https://www.bhspecialty.com/us-products/us-surety/). Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance; Product Highlights name performance, payment, advance-payment, maintenance, supply and warranty bonds; Top Targets name regional/national/global contractors and construction suppliers/services; PPP/project-delivery capability; lines 6–32. Accessed 2026-09-28.

### [Markel Insurance Official Website](https://www.markel.com/us)

25. [Markel Group Inc. 2025 Form 10-K](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1096343/000109634326000020/mkl-20251231.htm). U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission; filed by Markel Group Inc.; Cover page; Part I, Item 1 Business—Markel Insurance, U.S. Wholesale and Specialty, Programs and Solutions; Part II, Item 7/8 for group and segment risks. Accessed 2026-09-28.
26. [About us](https://www.markel.com/about-us). Markel; Markel at a glance; description of Markel Insurance within Markel Group Inc. Accessed 2026-09-28.
27. [US Product Disclaimer](https://www.markel.com/us-product-disclaimer). Markel; U.S. underwriting/entity and state-availability disclaimer; identifies Markel West Insurance Services, California license #2E11302, for certain non-admitted coverage. It does not state Markel Service national producer license #27585 or California DBA license #0645481. Accessed 2026-09-29.
28. [Insurance Programs](https://www.markel.com/us/insurance-programs). Markel; FAQ and legal disclaimer at page end; coverage by Markel insurers, Markel Service, Incorporated national producer license #27585 and California DBA license #0645481, and Markel West Insurance Services California license #2E11302 for certain non-admitted products. Accessed 2026-09-29.
29. [AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Markel Group Inc. and Its Subsidiaries](https://news.ambest.com/pr/PressContent.aspx?altsrc=2&refnum=36790). AM Best; Press release dated November 21, 2025; paragraphs naming ratings, rating rationale, and Markel North America Insurance Group members. Accessed 2026-09-28.
30. [North America Producer Compensation Disclosure](https://www.markel.com/north-america-producer-compensation-disclosure). Markel; Base commissions, contingent compensation, business production/additional incentives, and Markel Specialty/Markel Service/insurer role statement. Accessed 2026-09-28.
31. [U.S. and Bermuda Claims Contacts](https://content.markel.com/api/public/content/f52fc789f11245b5b8acd14aa45e1847). Markel; April 2026 claims-contact PDF footer: Markel West, Inc. d/b/a Markel West Insurance Services, California license #0D95581; coverage by one or more Markel insurers and non-admitted routes. Accessed 2026-09-29.
32. [Small Business Insurance](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business). Markel; Small business products; Types of companies—Child care and enrichment, Commercial and residential services, Sports and fitness, Manufacturing. Accessed 2026-09-28.
33. [Workers Compensation Insurance](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/workers-compensation). Markel; Introductory quote/application route; claims question and report-a-claim contact. Accessed 2026-09-28.
34. [Commercial Lines Agents & Broker Support](https://www.markel.com/us/for-agents-and-brokers/commercial-lines). Markel; mPortal and Markel Online access; resources; digital distribution. Accessed 2026-09-28.
35. [My Account](https://www.markel.com/us/my-account). Markel US; Online account portal capabilities; Business insurance; unlisted-product direction. Accessed 2026-09-28.
36. [Request appointment with Markel](https://www.markel.com/us/for-agents-and-brokers/request-appointment-with-markel). Markel; Commercial and personal lines agency partner criteria; product-specific affiliate appointments; producer-license requirement. Accessed 2026-09-28.
37. [Markel Insurance Companies](https://www.markel.com/our-insurance-companies). Markel; Notice to California and Massachusetts Applicants and Insureds; U.S.-domiciled property and casualty insurer subsidiaries and affiliates; table of company names and market status (page states current as of 2024-04-01). Accessed 2026-09-28.
38. [Small Business Casualty and Property Insurance](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/small-business-casualty-and-property). Markel; What we offer; product/liability, property, general casualty, inland marine, excess umbrella, liquor liability, hired/non-owned auto, employee benefits liability, E&O and equipment breakdown references. Accessed 2026-09-29.
39. [Workers Compensation Insurance](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/small-business/workers-compensation). Markel; Product overview and quote route; workers compensation/employers liability, eligible industries, claim and loss-control descriptions. Accessed 2026-09-29.
40. [Cyber Insurance Coverage](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/cyber). Markel; Markel Cyber 360; coverages available, cyber incident response, business interruption, privacy/security liability, media liability and technology professional liability. Accessed 2026-09-29.
41. [ProBiz | Professional Liability Coverage](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/probiz). Markel; What is Markel ProBiz; separate management liability and miscellaneous E&O; listed limits and qualifying business size. Accessed 2026-09-29.
42. [Private and Nonprofit Management Liability Insurance](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/professional-and-management-liability/management-liability/private-and-nonprofit). Markel; What we offer; private/nonprofit segment; D&O, EPL, fiduciary and optional coverage sections. Accessed 2026-09-29.
43. [Commercial Property Insurance](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/property/commercial-and-risk-management-property). Markel; Commercial property product summary and eligible risks. Accessed 2026-09-29.
44. [Commercial Inland Marine Insurance](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/property/inland-marine). Markel; What we offer; inland marine classes, cargo, contractors equipment, transportation and coverage structure. Accessed 2026-09-29.
45. [Builders Risk Insurance](https://www.markel.com/us/industries/construction/large-builders-risk). Markel; Coverage features; construction projects and builders-risk scope. Accessed 2026-09-29.
46. [Excess Casualty Insurance](https://www.markel.com/us/commercial/casualty/excess-casualty). Markel; Excess and umbrella liability and admitted/non-admitted capabilities. Accessed 2026-09-29.
47. [Markel Surety](https://www.markel.com/us/surety). Markel; Products; contract bonds, commercial bonds, court and probate bonds. Accessed 2026-09-29.
48. [Markel Insurance Company Complaints](https://www.bbb.org/us/va/glen-allen/profile/insurance-companies/markel-insurance-company-0603-4017547/complaints). Better Business Bureau; Company complaints summary: 12 in last three years, 3 closed in last 12 months; complaint-category counts and displayed case examples; headquarters and corporate-owned locations. Accessed 2026-09-29.

Updated 2026-09-30. Spot, a product of Tools for Enlightenment, publishes this research and works in the commercial insurance market. The comparison applies the same criteria to both providers. [Editorial policy](https://spot.insure/editorial-policy). To suggest a correction, [contact Spot](https://spot.insure/contact) with the page URL and supporting source.

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