Nov 4, 2025 | News Release
Flexible Payment Options for Workers Compensation Policyholders During the Federal Government Shutdown
We understand that the ongoing federal government shutdown may be creating financial uncertainty for many of our valued policyholders.
If you are impacted by the shutdown and are experiencing difficulty making your insurance payments, please reach out to us at [email protected]. We are committed to working with each policyholder on a case-by-case basis to provide flexible payment options where needed. Our goal is to support you during this challenging time with understanding and responsiveness.
Thank you for being a part of the BHHC Workers Compensation community.
The Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC) are a group of six insurance carriers that are part of the Berkshire Hathaway insurance group. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, and with over 50 years in business, BHHC has evolved from a regional carrier to a national insurance group writing a diverse book of policies from coast to coast. The Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies include Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Insurance Company, BHHC Special Risks Insurance Company, Continental Divide Insurance Company, Cypress Insurance Company, Oak River Insurance Company, and Redwood Fire and Casualty Insurance Company.
Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC) have earned an enviable record of success in the insurance industry. Supported by A.M. Best’s highest financial strength rating of A++ (Superior) (as of March 13, 2025), our corporate size enables our organization to react swiftly and effectively to opportunities in the insurance marketplace. Our financial strength provides our employees, agency partners, and policyholders the security rarely available in today’s marketplace. Browse bhhc.com to learn more.
Jun 9, 2025 | News Release
Maryland and Kentucky Policies Impacted by Disasters
In response to severe flooding in western Maryland, Gov. Wes Moore issued an executive order on May 15 declaring a state of emergency for Allegany and Garrett counties.
The declaration is in effect until July 14, and we will offer payment extensions and hold cancellations and non-renewals for in-force policies until that time.
In response to storms in Kentucky on May 16 and May 17, Gov. Andy Beshear issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency in Clay, Laurel, Pulaski, and Russell counties.
The declaration is in effect until June 17, and we will hold cancellations and non-renewals for in-force policies until that time.
If your business is located in one of the declared emergency areas and was impacted by the flooding, please reach out to your agent to discuss the accommodations available to you. Agents, please contact your Marketing Manager or Underwriter with questions about affected accounts.
The Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC) are a group of six insurance carriers that are part of the Berkshire Hathaway insurance group. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, and with over 50 years in business, BHHC has evolved from a regional carrier to a national insurance group writing a diverse book of policies from coast to coast. The Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies include Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Insurance Company, BHHC Special Risks Insurance Company, Continental Divide Insurance Company, Cypress Insurance Company, Oak River Insurance Company, and Redwood Fire and Casualty Insurance Company.
Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC) have earned an enviable record of success in the insurance industry. Supported by A.M. Best’s highest financial strength rating of A++ (Superior) (as of March 13, 2025), our corporate size enables our organization to react swiftly and effectively to opportunities in the insurance marketplace. Our financial strength provides our employees, agency partners, and policyholders the security rarely available in today’s marketplace. Browse bhhc.com to learn more.
Jan 30, 2025 | News Release
Recognition like this matters – to our customers and us.
Coming in at #5, we are excited to announce that Berkshire Hathaway Inc. is ranked in the top 10 of the World’s Most Admired Companies list as determined annually by Fortune. Notably, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. maintained the 1st place ranking for our industry (Insurance: Property & Casualty) for the 20th consecutive year. The Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies are honored to be a part of the Berkshire Hathaway insurance group in support of our organization’s reputation and integrity through a culture of service.
This annual list rates firms on nine critical attributes to identify those with the strongest reputations among the world’s top executives. The rankings emerge from a survey of 3,380 top executives and directors, along with financial analysts, that examines the companies that enjoy the strongest reputations within their industries and across industries.
Berkshire Hathaway Inc. has made the list before. In fact, since 1998, a 27-year streak, and for the Property & Casualty Insurance industry, since 2005, which is a 20-year streak. Being included as a part of the company that is named to this prestigious roster is an honor every single time. It says we’re innovative; provide high-quality products and services; are well-managed; are socially responsible; attract and retain talented team members; and are financially sound. All things that matter to our customers and to us. These are all things we strive to achieve every day.
Here’s to continuing the work as BHHC to be among the world’s most admired. After all, we want to be there next year to support and make our contribution to the Property & Casualty Insurance industry 1st place ranking and keep the streak going!
The Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC) are a group of six insurance carriers that are part of the Berkshire Hathaway insurance group. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, and with over 50 years in business, BHHC has evolved from a regional carrier to a national insurance group writing a diverse book of policies from coast to coast. The Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies include Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Insurance Company, BHHC Special Risks Insurance Company, Continental Divide Insurance Company, Cypress Insurance Company, Oak River Insurance Company, and Redwood Fire and Casualty Insurance Company.
Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC) have earned an enviable record of success in the insurance industry. Supported by A.M. Best’s highest financial strength rating of A++ (Superior) (as of February 22, 2024), our corporate size enables our organization to react swiftly and effectively to opportunities in the insurance marketplace. Our financial strength provides our employees, agency partners, and policyholders the security rarely available in today’s marketplace. Browse bhhc.com to learn more.
Jan 18, 2025 | News Release
With the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting the first U.S. death from the H5 bird flu virus, it’s more important than ever to take steps to protect your employees as this virus continues to affect agricultural operations. As of January 14, 2025, the CDC reports that all 50 states have experienced outbreaks in poultry, affecting over 134 million birds. Additionally, 16 states have reported infections in dairy herds, totaling 925 affected herds. While the current public health risk for humans remains low, cases among dairy and poultry workers have been reported in several states. It’s crucial to stay vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard your workers and livestock. We’ve prepared a guide with actionable measures to help you reduce exposure risks and maintain biosecurity on your farm.
Protective Measures to Implement
We’ve prepared a comprehensive guide featuring actionable steps to help reduce exposure risks and maintain biosecurity on your farm. Highlights include:
- Proper PPE Usage: Learn best practices for personal protective equipment to safeguard workers.
- Visitor Protocols: Understand how to limit external contamination risks.
- Animal Monitoring Tips: Spot early warning signs to ensure livestock health.
Your attention to these precautions can make a significant difference. Taking preventative action now can help safeguard your workers and your operation.
Additional Resources
BHHC Safety Center
Log in to the BHHC Safety Center for more resources on H5 Bird Flu Virus.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC)
Review the CDC’s official page on H5 Bird Flu here.
Questions?
For further assistance, see the H5 Bird Flu Virus FAQ here.
The Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC) are a group of six insurance carriers that are part of the Berkshire Hathaway insurance group. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, and with over 50 years in business, BHHC has evolved from a regional carrier to a national insurance group writing a diverse book of policies from coast to coast. The Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies include Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Insurance Company, BHHC Special Risks Insurance Company, Continental Divide Insurance Company, Cypress Insurance Company, Oak River Insurance Company, and Redwood Fire and Casualty Insurance Company.
Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC) have earned an enviable record of success in the insurance industry. Supported by A.M. Best’s highest financial strength rating of A++ (Superior) (as of February 22, 2024), our corporate size enables our organization to react swiftly and effectively to opportunities in the insurance marketplace. Our financial strength provides our employees, agency partners, and policyholders the security rarely available in today’s marketplace. Browse bhhc.com to learn more.
Jan 15, 2025 | News Release
The recent wildfires across Los Angeles and Southern California have profoundly affected communities, including businesses and individuals connected to our industry. At BHHC, our thoughts are with everyone impacted during this challenging time, and we want you to know that we’re here to support you.
Flexible Policy Solutions for Affected Policyholders
If you are a policyholder and experiencing difficulties due to the wildfires, BHHC is ready to assist with flexible policy solutions, including payment accommodations. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance or assistance.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (888) 495-8949
Cal/OSHA Wildfire Smoke Standards
Employers, even those far from active wildfire zones, may encounter poor air quality due to widespread smoke. Cal/OSHA has issued alerts emphasizing the importance of protecting employees through appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Resources and guidelines are available in English and Spanish to help employers comply with wildfire smoke standards:
Agents, we encourage you to share these resources with your clients to ensure they are equipped to maintain workplace safety.
Industry Resources for Support and Relief
In light of the wildfires, the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) has launched the Wildfire Relief Fund to aid those in need of shelter and assistance. Funding from the Western Division Board Leadership Campaign will also go toward fire relief efforts. Learn more and donate here.
Additionally, the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America’s Trusted Choice Relief Fund offers support to agents and their communities during crises like these. For more details, or to apply for a grant, visit the Trusted Choice Relief Fund page.
Jan 9, 2025 | News Release
The ongoing wildfires in greater Los Angeles area are concerning, and BHHC is grateful to the first responders fighting the blazes. We encourage you to safeguard yourselves and prioritize safety during this time.
Even employers far away from active fire events might have poor air quality in your area. Cal/OSHA issued an advisory today to remind businesses of its Protection from Wildfire Smoke standard to protect workers from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke.
Why It Matters
Wildfire smoke contains fine particles (PM2.5) that can harm respiratory health. Workers who spend time outdoors or in poorly ventilated areas are at greater risk.
What Employers Must Do
Monitor Air Quality
- Track the AQI for PM2.5 at the worksite before and during each shift using tools like AirNow or Cal/OSHA-approved instruments.
Provide Respiratory Protection
- When AQI exceeds 150: Offer N-95 respirators for voluntary use.
When AQI exceeds 500: Ensure workers use respirators.
Adjust Work Practices
- Limit outdoor work or provide additional breaks in safe areas.
Educate Your Team
- Provide training on the hazards of wildfire smoke, how to use respirators, and the importance of reporting unsafe conditions.
Respect Evacuation Orders
- It’s illegal to retaliate against workers who refuse to work in unsafe conditions, including in evacuation zones.
Resources to Help
Cal/OSHA provides detailed guidelines and resources in English and Spanish to help employers comply with wildfire smoke standards. Visit www.WildfireSmokeCalifornia.org or www.HumodeIncendios.org for more information.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe!
Keep up to date on wildfire status through Cal Fire and monitor air quality via local resources. By taking these steps, you protect not just your workers, but your business as well.