WSRB periodically reviews and updates the Public Protection/BCEGS Classification Manual (PPCM) to ensure classifications reflect real-world fire protection conditions.

Over time, it became clear that properties beyond five road miles from a fire station do not all present the same level of fire suppression capability. In particular, properties between five and seven miles that continue to benefit from Class A response and reliable water supply warranted additional differentiation.

The W Classification provides a practical way to recognize those differences.

The W Classification adds a refined designation to certain properties where existing classifications did not fully capture differences in fire suppression capability.

In other words, W Classifications add an alternative method that exists in parallel to currently available PCs. 

Under the Alternative Public Protection Classification Manual, a property may qualify if it is:

- Located within the legal boundaries of a community rated PC 1 to PC 8.

- Located between five and seven road miles from a responding Class A fire station, and

- Within 1,000 feet of a hydrant, or

- Located in a community that receives Mobile Water Supply Credit

For dwellings and farm dwellings, Tender Credit is also considered, consistent with current PPCM provisions.

The W Classification is displayed by adding a “W” to the community or fire district’s existing protection class.

Example:

PC 3W

No. WSRB has filed the W Classification as part of an Alternative Public Protection Classification Manual, which insurers may choose to adopt.

Each insurer determines:

- Whether to adopt the Alternate PPCM

- Whether and how it aligns with their underwriting and rating approach

- The appropriate filing with the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC)

- Their effective date, if adopted

The Alternative Public Protection Classification Manual structure allows insurers flexibility.

WSRB filed it as an option so each insurer can independently evaluate whether the refinement adds value within their existing frameworks and adoption timeframe.

Yes.

WSRB developed the W Classification through ongoing collaboration with the Washington Fire Chiefs (WFC) via its Rating Bureau Committee. These discussions helped ensure the refinement aligns with how fire departments operate and respond in practice.

The Committee agreed that the W Classification reflects a common-sense distinction in fire suppression capability.

Because W Classifications are new in Washington, WSRB is submitting separate, concurrent filings for each property line of business. These filings include the corresponding proposed rating factors.

Insurers can evaluate those factors as part of their adoption and filing decisions.

No.

Most properties in Washington remain within five road miles of a fire station and continue to be classified under existing Public Protection Classification Manual criteria.

The W Classification applies to a specific subset of properties and is intended as a targeted refinement, not a broad reclassification.