What is a Golf Course Burn?

A golf course burn is something few people know about or understand when discussing the green. The term “burn” in golf courses is common among golf enthusiasts in Scotland, England, and the broader British Isles. However, for many international fans, the term only appears once a year during British Opens.

The Basis of a Golf Course Burn

In this article, we’ll delve into what golf course burns are and why it is crucial to have proper umbrella/excessive coverage to manage them effectively.

What Is a “Burn” in Golf?

As golf courses developed over the years and became popular places of play during the 19th century, many small rivers transformed into permanent water features using stone walls. These were once temporary streams.

But development turned them into a permanent part of the golf course, and this conversion is what defines a burn.

Golf course designers of that era often incorporated burns into their layouts to create a distinct challenge for players. It wasn’t easy to move anything then, so working around existing natural features like burns was a practical solution.

Streams on American golf courses often have wide openings, shaggy banks, and might be tree- or rock-lined. They are effortless to spot and identify in the landscape.

Burns on links courses, on the other hand, are more seamlessly integrated into the landscape, lying flush with the surrounding fairway or rough. It makes them harder to spot and avoid for golfers.

What Is Umbrella/Excessive Insurance Coverage?

Since golf course burns often occur in low-lying areas, they can be prone to flooding during heavy rain. If a burn overflows, it can cause significant damage to the health and quality of the course and potentially lead to liability claims against the golf course. That’s where umbrella/excessive coverage comes in. 

Suppose a severe accident or incident occurs on the course, and the damages or liability exceed the limits of the golf course’s existing insurance policies. In that case, umbrella coverage can provide additional financial protection. It can include coverage for medical fees, legal expenses, and other fees associated with a claim or lawsuit.

How Do Umbrella Policies Work?

An umbrella insurance policy is particularly beneficial for high-net-worth golf course owners with a substantial asset portfolio who may be more likely to face lawsuits. However, even small businesses can benefit from this coverage to safeguard themselves against potential financial losses.

If the policyholder already has standard golf course insurance policies, they may be able to secure an umbrella policy at a lower cost. However, some insurance providers may require policyholders to maintain a particular base insurance coverage before adding an umbrella policy.

About T2 Green Insurance

T2Green Insurance provides comprehensive insurance that is customized to your club, resort, or golf management company, from industry professionals whose sole focus is insuring this class. We are dedicated to providing you with innovative products, underwriting expertise, and exceptional results so that your insurance needs are covered with confidence. Reach us at 844-223-9005 with any questions or so we can begin tailoring a package that works best for your club.

SUBSCRIBE

sign me up for news, inspiring articles, and other updates

A member company of K2 Insurance Services.

T2Green Insurance Program

201 King of Prussia Rd., Suite 650

Radnor, PA 19087

Phone: 844-223-9005

Email: submissions@T2GreenInsurance.com