Firemen still appreciate Fireman's Fund Insurance. The property/casualty insurer sells commercial insurance for small and midsized businesses and personal lines focused on wealthy individuals. Its commercial products include ordinary specialty insurance such as professional liability insurance, as well as truly niche coverage to protect vineyards and wineries from crop damage and shipping mishaps. Founded in 1863, the company is named for a now-defunct arrangement that saw 10% of its profits supporting widows and orphans of firefighters. These days the Fireman's Fund Heritage program provides grants for equipment and training to fire departments. Fireman's Fund is a subsidiary of German insurer Allianz.
Among the company's many lines of business, some are decidedly more glamorous than others. Fireman's Fund is the top insurer of Hollywood movie productions, for instance, covering everything from set property damage to the risks of a film star getting ill. It also covers golf courses, country clubs, and ranches. Its personal lines cater to the rich and famous as well, providing coverage for fine art, collector cars, and yachts.
The company sells its personal and commercial products primarily through independent agents. Its agribusiness products are distributed exclusively through Rural Community Insurance Services, a managing general agent. Brokers and general agents also distribute some of its other specialty insurance products.
