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📄 '''Follow form''' describes a policy or coverage layer whose terms, conditions, and exclusions mirror — or "follow" — those of an underlying or primary insurance contract rather than establishing independent wording. The concept is pervasive in [[Definition:Excess insurance | excess]] and [[Definition:Umbrella insurance | umbrella liability]] placements, where higher-layer [[Definition:Insurance carrier | carriers]] agree to adopt the same coverage grants and restrictions as the lead [[Definition:Primary insurance | primary policy]], creating a seamless vertical tower of protection for the [[Definition:Insured | insured]].

🔗 When an excess layer is written on a follow form basis, it incorporates the underlying policy's language by reference. If the primary policy covers a particular [[Definition:Peril | peril]] or extends a specific [[Definition:Endorsement | endorsement]], the follow form layer automatically does the same — subject to its own [[Definition:Attachment point | attachment point]] and [[Definition:Policy limit | limit]]. Critically, any exclusion in the underlying wording also applies to the follow form layer unless the excess policy explicitly states otherwise through a "broader than" or "drop-down" provision. Disputes can arise when the primary policy is amended mid-term, raising questions about whether the excess layer follows the change automatically. Courts and arbitration panels across the United States, England, and other common-law jurisdictions have produced a substantial body of case law interpreting follow form language, making precise drafting essential.

⚙️ The practical value of a follow form structure lies in simplicity and consistency: the insured obtains a coherent program without reconciling conflicting wordings across multiple layers, and [[Definition:Claims | claims]] adjusters can apply a single set of coverage definitions from the ground up. For [[Definition:Underwriting | underwriters]], follow form placement reduces drafting costs and accelerates placement timelines, especially in [[Definition:London market | London market]] and [[Definition:Bermuda market | Bermuda]] excess towers where dozens of participants may subscribe to the same slip. However, follow form does not mean "follow everything" — excess carriers routinely carve out specific exposures or impose sub-limits that diverge from the underlying, making a careful comparison of wordings indispensable during [[Definition:Policy review | policy review]] and [[Definition:Broker | broking]].

'''Related concepts:'''
{{Div col|colwidth=20em}}
* [[Definition:Excess insurance]]
* [[Definition:Umbrella insurance]]
* [[Definition:Primary insurance]]
* [[Definition:Following market]]
* [[Definition:Attachment point]]
* [[Definition:Manuscript policy]]
{{Div col end}}

Definition:Follow form - Revision history

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