Starwind FPS launches flood and property program as Aspen MGA rebrands to Alpine Rio

By Chris Munro

July 1 - (The Insurer) - Starwind Specialty Insurance Services has brought a new residential and commercial flood and specialty property-focused program to market, while the CRC Group-owned underwriting platform has also rebranded its Aspen Managing General Agency to Alpine Rio Insurance Services.

Led by Patrick Small, who has joined from Dual North America, the new offering, called Starwind Flood Placement Services (Starwind FPS), has been designed to address “critical coverage gaps” for both residential and commercial clients across the U.S.

Starwind FPS “combines disciplined underwriting, delegated authority, and a strong educational mission to help agents and insureds make informed, confident insurance decisions,” the company said.

“As NFIP reforms continue and private market opportunities expand, Starwind FPS is positioned to lead with forward-thinking solutions that benefit carriers, agents and insureds alike,” it added.

Among the new program’s highlights are national availability with minimal restrictions, customized flood insurance solutions that meet federal compliance standards and delegated underwriting authority with top-tier carriers.

The new program also has an emphasis on education, risk transparency and claims clarity.

“Floods come without warning; they strike anywhere, at any time. That’s why we believe flood insurance isn’t just a policy, it’s peace of mind,” said Starwind FPS president Small.

“Our mission is to simplify complex coverage types and deliver meaningful protection where it’s needed most. We want to help homeowners and businesses recover faster and rebuild stronger by making flood coverage accessible, understandable and essential.”

The new program also supports agents with tools to improve customer experience, reduce their E&O exposure and cross-sell relevant products.

Alongside launching the new flood and specialty property offering, Starwind has announced the rebrand of nonstandard personal auto insurance specialist Aspen Managing General Agency to Alpine Rio Insurance Services.

The rebrand includes a new logo, updated website and visual identity, and Starwind said the name change “reflects the company’s continued growth, evolving vision, and unwavering commitment to delivering tailored auto insurance solutions with agility, precision, and exceptional service”.