Program History

Leavitt Recreation and Hospitality Insurance (LRHI) is the culmination of a need that was experienced across the nation years ago. Beginning in the 1970's, RV parks, campgrounds, sportsman's lodges, and destination resorts experienced problems securing insurance. Few insurance carriers were willing to provide adequate coverage for high-valued properties in remote locations with little, if any, fire protection.

The potential liabilities associated with these recreational properties also complicated the insurance process. Insurance carriers had significant concerns over risks such as open fires, physical activities, shotgun or bow exposure, and propane filling stations.

The insurance carriers willing to cover these properties were predominantly non-admitted carriers, and their policies contained many exclusions in coverage. Because of the lack of willing carriers to cover such risks, these non-admitted carriers could essentially name their price. No other options were available.

Jim Calfee recognized this need. He worked diligently with admitted insurance carriers who were willing to see his vision. He secured contracts with these carriers which allowed these "unwanted" exposures to obtain quality insurance with quality carriers. Once these carriers were on board, Mr. Calfee went a step further and organized a nationwide network of specialists who developed a thorough understanding of this industry. Over time, this network was able to add coverages necessary to protect these clients.

Due to the lack of advanced telecommunications at the time, these pioneering insurance agents spent countless hours traveling the country from park to resort to lodge. At the expense of tire rubber and shoe leather, these agents learned their clients' fears and concerns and how to protect them. Some of these agents are still in the business today.

Today this unique group of clients has a host of selections available to them. Admitted, "A" rated carriers down to the surplus lines offshore carriers are willing to cover their insurance needs. This increased competition has kept pricing competitive for the industry as a whole.

Through acquisition, the original agency founded by Jim Calfee grew and eventually partnered with the Leavitt Group. The Leavitt Group is one of the largest insurance brokerages in the nation. Now known as Leavitt Recreation and Hospitality Insurance (LRHI), the agency gained access to operations support as well as the elite status the Leavitt Group holds with carriers. This has enabled the agency to develop, maintain, and grow a successful program.

In 2008, LRHI developed the RV Park and Campground Program with Fireman's Fund Insurance Company. The original program founded by Jim Calfee and his team of pioneers now has the backing of a major "A" rated carrier.

Today, LRHI uses a selection of carriers, including Fireman's Fund, to ensure our clients have a full array of insurance solutions to meet their needs at a very competitive rate. The agency has continued to flourish and grow even through the 2008 downturn in the economy. LRHI maintains an elite status with all of our carriers which aids in claims service as well as pricing for our clients.