US property and casualty rates rose 5% last month, the same as in August, according to information exchange MarketScout.

Commercial property was up 6%, directors’ and officers’ liability rose 4%, professional liability increased 3% and workers’ compensation was up 6%.

Smaller and middle market accounts (up to $US250,000 in premium) paid an average rate increase of 6% last month, while large accounts ($US250,000 to $US1 million) paid a rate increase of 4%.

Accounts of more than $US1 million in premium had only a 3% increase.

“The more premium a buyer pays, the more competitive the rates,” MarketScout CEO Richard Kerr said.

Personal lines rose 3%, again the same as in August.