We do not backdate continuity dates on new business. Our continuity date is narrowly defined, addressing only prior reported claims or incidents noticed to another carrier, or incidents known by a senior executive of the insured. Furthermore, what constitutes an incident is specifically confined to one of the triggers for coverage in the policy. The continuity date, as used in our policy, is narrower in use than a traditional pending/prior date as it is specific to already reported or known events rather than the broader concept of all known or possible litigation.
Another reason we don't backdate continuity dates on new business is that it is nearly impossible to match and verify coverages and policy terms between policies, and particularly so as our policy tends to offer broader coverage and terms than most other insurance providers.
Please do note, however, that our policy does not have a retroactive date, providing full coverage for prior acts and incidents not reported to a prior carrier or known by a senior executive. It also sets the clock for renewals: we do not require a warranty statement at renewal (and only request a no known circumstances letter if there is a requested change in terms or policy limits).