The Environmental Edge

Q&A with Dennis Willette – SVP, Head of Environmental. In this edition, Dennis Willette shares his perspective on the evolving environmental risk landscape, how Westfield Specialty is responding.
1. What industry trends are currently having the biggest impact on environmental 
insurance?
“Three main forces are shaping the market, especially in construction.
First, economic pressures—higher material costs, tighter financing, and labor shortages—
are slowing project starts. That affects discretionary coverage purchases.
Second, the legal environment. Large-scale claims and nuclear verdicts are pushing up 
casualty premiums, leaving less budget for complementary coverages like environmental 
and professional liability.
Third, shifting buyer sophistication. More contractors are being required to purchase 
environmental coverage and are recognizing the difference between a check-the-box policy 
and a program that truly protects them. We work closely with brokers to show how the right 
coverage now can prevent major uncovered losses later.”
2. How is Westfield Specialty positioning its Environmental team to address these emerging risks?
“Our structure gives underwriters the bandwidth to be consultative. Strong stakeholder 
support, a diverse team with broad experience, and robust internal resources—claims, legal, product, operations, and technology let us focus on market engagement.
We stay active at conferences, monitor emerging issues like PFAS, and bring that knowledge back to our brokers and clients. When you work with us, you’re getting not just one underwriter but the full strength of our platform.”
3. What are some of the most common environmental or professional liability coverage gaps you see in the market today and how can brokers help clients avoid them?
“There are three areas that come to mind:
• Mitigation Expense – Covers the gap between standard contractor pollution 
coverage and emergency response, so issues can be addressed before they escalate.
• Rectification Expense – First-party professional coverage to correct an error before 
it becomes a claim, saving time and litigation costs.
• Protective Coverages – For pollution and professional liability, ensures 
subcontractors’ insurance responds first, preserving the insured’s limits.
The best thing brokers can do is educate clients on these protections before they face an uncovered claim. A little investment in the right coverage now can save them from a huge financial hit later.

AM Best Interview with Dennis Willette

For more from Dennis, check out this recent interview with AM Best where he discusses how growing PFAS risks are driving demand for more tailored environmental insurance solutions.

Watch the full interview here.

Product Capabilities

Contractor's Pollution and Professional Liability  

Owner's Protective Pollution and Professional Liability