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6 min readNumbers only. No advice.

Coverage Gap Analysis: Comparing Limits to Real Exposure

Shows how coverage-gap analysis compares policy limits, sublimits, and retained losses against the exposure they are meant to absorb.

Read the formula, then test the same idea with your own inputs.
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Core Formula

Gap framing
Coverage gap = modeled exposure - recoverable insurance response
  • Modeled exposure represents the tested severity
  • Recoverable response depends on limits, deductibles, and exclusions
  • A positive gap indicates retained exposure

Why insured is not the same as protected

Many organisations know they have insurance but do not know whether the limit actually reaches the loss scenarios that matter.

Coverage-gap analysis exists to compare exposure with recoverable response rather than policy with no policy.

Why underinsurance hides

Underinsurance often appears through trend drift, inflation, sublimits, or scenario assumptions that are never updated.

A formula-first page is useful because it shows where the retained exposure still sits.

FAQ

Can a policy with a high limit still leave a gap?

Yes. Deductibles, sublimits, exclusions, and waiting periods can all reduce recoverable value.

Is a coverage gap always a problem?

Not automatically. Some retained exposure is intentional, but it should be chosen knowingly.

Disclaimer

Illustrative only. Coverage-gap outputs are scenario-based and do not interpret policy wording or replace broker, legal, or underwriting review.
Use This Calculator

Open the matching calculator to apply the guide to your own numbers.

Use the Coverage Gap Analysis CalculatorRun your own numbers with the linked calculator after reading the formula-first explanation.
Attribution and Review
Published by the Plain Figures editorial team. Review on this site focuses on formula accuracy, assumption clarity, and threshold freshness where current-year rules matter.
MethodologyAuthors and ReviewEditorial Policy
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This guide is for general information only. Plain Figures does not provide financial advice. All figures are illustrative. Formulas and tax rules change, so verify current rates and consult a qualified adviser before making decisions.