Standard Form

Approved or accepted policy for a particular type of risk. The only type of risk covered by a standard form mandated by law is the fire policy. In 1886, New York adopted a standard fire form that has since been revised and adopted by every other state. In other types of coverage, states may prescribe mandatory or optional mini-mums or may forbid certain provisions. Therefore, while life and health benefits may vary widely, for example, policyholders are given certain uniform rights like grace periods for paying premiums. In other areas, insurers have voluntarily adopted standard forms. One example is the standard automobile policy. Other types of coverage are offered on standard forms developed by rating bureaus such as the INSURANCE SERVICES OFFICE (ISO). Although insurers may use these forms, they are not obligated to do so, and many develop their own forms.