Aviva Specialty Makes Its US Debut

The latest update from Aviva Specialty;

Aviva announced the launch of Aviva Specialty, its wholly owned U.S. specialty insurance platform headquartered in New York City, marking Aviva’s expansion into the U.S. specialty insurance market¹.

Aviva Specialty will begin underwriting commercial property risks in the fourth quarter of 2026, serving open market brokerage, and partnering with leading program administrators. The business was built around a partnership-led model designed to combine disciplined underwriting, responsive decision-making, and modern technology with the financial strength and global capabilities of Aviva.

The platform will initially focus on commercial property, with a roadmap to expand into additional lines of business including cyber, specialty & financial lines as well as specialty casualty.

Aviva Specialty will write on Aviva Insurance Limited paper, providing brokers, clients, and program partners with access to Aviva’s financial strength and underwriting expertise. The new business is designed to bring partners the best of both worlds: the agility and entrepreneurial mindset of a specialty insurance start-up, backed by the capabilities and resources of a leading global insurer.

“What differentiates Aviva Specialty is the combination of a seasoned specialty insurance team and the agility of a purpose-built platform,” said Mike Karmilowicz, president of Aviva Specialty. “We are building the business from the ground up for today’s market, giving our teams the tools and flexibility to deliver responsive underwriting, exceptional service and consistent execution for brokers, clients and program partners.”

The launch represents the first stage of Aviva’s U.S. specialty strategy. The company intends to build its presence deliberately, focusing on classes and partnerships where Aviva’s underwriting expertise, capital strength, and long-term approach can create meaningful value.

“The launch of Aviva Specialty represents an important step in Aviva’s growth strategy,” said Jason Storah, CEO, UK & Ireland General Insurance, Aviva. “As we continue to expand our global specialty capabilities, the U.S. is a market where we see significant opportunities to grow and create value. We are entering the market with a long-term perspective and a commitment to being a trusted specialty insurance partner.”

Aviva Specialty operates as a wholly owned surplus lines carrier and has capabilities to serve risk nationwide.

^1. Aviva Specialty Insurance Services US, Inc., dba Aviva Specialty Insurance Agency Inc. in CA and FL; CA Lic. No. 6020053