Using Excel Import in BindHQ

Last updated: November 10, 2025

Introduction

This article explains how to use the Excel Import feature on applications in BindHQ using our downloadable template to fill in all data points and collections inside your Custom Line of Business Applications.

Excel Template Structure

Each downloadable template is designed to mirror your application setup in BindHQ. Here’s how it’s organized:

  • One sheet per step in your Custom LOB

  • One sheet per collection

  • Columns match the field names in the application for easy mapping

  • A built-in Glossary sheet explains field formats, allowed values, and column details

This structure ensures your uploaded data fits seamlessly into the BindHQ application.

Understanding IDs, Parent References, and Data Entry Rules

When filling out your Excel template, it’s important to understand how the ID and Parent fields work. These define how your data connects between different sheets (such as Locations and Buildings) and ensure your data imports correctly into BindHQ.

How IDs and Parent Fields Work

Each row in the spreadsheet must include its own ID, which uniquely identifies that record.
The Parent field links that record to the object one level above it in the hierarchy (for example: Location → Buildings → Building Coverages → Deductibles).

IDs can be simple numbers (like 1, 2, 3) or more descriptive labels (like location_1). For buildings, the ID often mirrors the Building Number, and the Parent field references the related Location ID.

Example: One Location with Multiple Buildings

If you’re entering one location that contains multiple buildings:

  • Create a single Risk Location row (e.g., ID = 1 or location_1).

  • In the Buildings tab, create multiple rows for each building (e.g., IDs 1…N or building_1…building_N).

  • For each building, set Parent to the location’s ID.
    Example: Every building row lists Parent = 1.

Formatting Guidelines

You don’t need to follow a strict format — underscores or verbose names are optional.
The key requirement is that each ID must be unique. Using readable IDs can make it easier to trace and troubleshoot relationships later.

Filling the Sheet

When completing your Excel template, keep these common mapping and validation details in mind:

  • Risk Location ID vs. Building ID

    • The Location tab’s ID identifies the overall property or location (often just 1).

    • The Buildings tab’s ID identifies each building (1–100), and the Parent column references the location’s ID (e.g., 1).

  • County and Address Fields

    • The Risk Location tab includes address-related fields (including County) that map directly to the application’s location section in BindHQ.

    • County is treated as free text — there’s no enforced master list, so you can enter it as you prefer (e.g., “Palm Beach County”).

  • Error Handling

    • If your upload contains incorrect or incomplete data, the system will display a validation message.

    • You’ll need to correct the issue and re-upload the file.

    • Currently, the importer surfaces one error at a time, helping you identify the exact issue before retrying.

  • Using Drop-Down Lists for Consistency

    • To minimize typos and maintain consistent entries (especially for detailed fields like Construction Type), you can add your own Excel drop-downs or data validation lists.

    • BindHQ will still accept these values.

Importing Excel Data into Applications

  1. Create a new application or edit an existing one for your desired Line of Business.

  2. Click Download a Template File.

  3. Open the template and fill in the data following the provided structure and Glossary details.

  4. Once your data is complete, upload the template back into BindHQ by browsing or drag and dropping the file.

  5. Click on Import from Excel, and the system will automatically populate your application fields based on the uploaded data.

Supported Lines of Business

The Excel import feature is available for the following lines:

  • Custom Lines of Business (PRO tier)

  • Homeowners

  • Dwelling Fire (Dwelling Property)

  • Commercial Property

  • General Liability

Each Excel template includes a Glossary tab outlining valid formats and expected values — making it easy to get it right the first time.

Important information

  • The Custom Line of Business (Custom LOB) feature is available for BindHQ PRO tier customers.

  • Double-check your Glossary sheet before uploading to avoid errors.

  • If you receive an error message after upload, review your data formats and allowed values in the Glossary tab.

Last Update: November 2025