nce included in the general liability policy, pollution liability coverage is now excluded by almost all general liability policies. For many years pollution liability insurance was practically unavailable.

During this period there were many abuses of the "Absolute Pollution Exclusion" that carriers added to their general liability forms. For example, a major insurance company cited the pollution exclusion in denying liability for carbon monoxide poisoning from faulty heating equipment. On the other hand, insureds' lawyers fought to get pollution liability covered in spite of the exclusion.

The cycle has now turned. At no additional premium most insurers will add an endorsement to include coverage for such losses. They will also include "hostile fire" coverage. However, insurers still usually exclude all other pollution losses from their standard liability policies.

But guess what? For a fairly reasonable premium, pollution coverage is now available. Each policy must be carefully reviewed and evaluated, because there is no standard form. If you have not considered your exposure to loss from pollution liability and clean up give your consultant a call. He or she can help evaluate your pollution liability exposures and obtain coverage if needed.