4 Reasons to Go with an Independent Insurance Agent

Whether you are insuring a home, condo, apartment, rental property, or business, there are a few different ways you can go about purchasing new coverage or renewing what you have:

• You can do it yourself, working directly with a large, national insurance company via their website, app, or 1-800 number.
• You can find a captive insurance agent—a professional who works exclusively for one insurance company, selling only that company’s products.
• You can get assistance from an independent insurance agent in your area.

Local insurance professionals are often family-owned and operated, and many have been serving their communities’ insurance needs for decades. They are also typically very accessible—if you need assistance with your insurance or a claim, you can usually stop by their local office; call, email, or text a team member directly; or send a message through their website and get a prompt response.

In addition, independent insurance agents do not work for an insurance company. Instead, they partner with a variety of carriers to provide clients with a wide range of coverage solutions, pricing options, and savings opportunities. While this enhanced level of personalized service may sound pricey, you do not have to pay anything to work with an independent agent.

How does working with an independent agent specifically benefit you?

While there are many advantages to partnering with a local professional, here are four key reasons you might want to choose an independent insurance agent:

1. They tailor insurance coverage to your individual needs.

A skilled independent insurance agent asks simple yet pointed questions that help them capture as much detail as they can about your properties, lifestyle, and business operations in order to build coverage that fits your distinct requirements. Once they have a full picture, your agent is able to:

• Compare quotes and policies from multiple carriers to help you find the best coverage options to fit your needs and budget.
• Recommend coverage solutions, in certain amounts and limits, that are appropriate for your situation.
• Identify special endorsements or higher limits that may help provide broader protection for your home, investment property, and business.

2. They uncover ways you may be able to save money on your insurance.

Not only can an independent insurance agent save you from doing tedious research—like exploring numerous insurance companies, comparison shopping, and interpreting insurance industry jargon—but they may also save you money on your insurance premium. Your agent might be able to:

• Ensure you are getting all eligible insurance discounts and credits that you qualify for.
• Advise you on steps you can take to further minimize your insurance premium, such as installing certain security devices, permanently installing water leak sensors, or making specific home improvements or building upgrades.
• Evaluate and explain the underlying reasons for a personal or business insurance premium increase and recommend options for keeping your rates competitive.

3. They are invested in you and your community.

Independent insurance professionals work, and often live, right around the corner from you. In addition, many of these professionals are actively involved in the community, sponsoring local nonprofits, volunteering their time to causes, serving on town boards, and more. As a result, your local agent is:

• Embedded in your community and focused on building long-term connections and relationships with clients and neighbors.
• Available for one-on-one meetings to discuss concerns, answer questions, assist you with a billing issue, and walk you through your insurance policy terms and conditions.
• Familiar with state-specific insurance rules and regulations as well as the unique risks associated with owning property, running a business, and having a family in your area.

4. They are there with personalized, hands-on support if you have a claim.

If a pipe bursts, a storm damages your roof, or you experience a fire, your independent insurance agent should be one of the first calls you make. During what can be a stressful time, having a knowledgeable, supportive, and local agent to help guide you may make a world of difference in how smoothly the claims process goes. Your insurance professional should be able to:

• Guide you through the claims process, helping you file the necessary forms and letting you know what to expect.
• Review the details of your relevant insurance policies to ensure you understand what is covered for this specific event and any limits or deductibles.
• Answer questions and concerns, connect you with the right person if they do not have an answer, and keep you informed on the progress of your claim.
• Act as a liaison with your insurance company, the assigned adjuster, and any other parties involved, advocating for a fair and quick resolution.

How Do You Find a Local, Independent Insurance Agent Near You?

At The Andover Companies, we believe a superior insurance experience starts with a local, independent insurance agent. That is why we offer our insurance solutions exclusively through a carefully selected network of insurance professionals that meet the highest standards of character, professionalism, and customer service and are well-known in their communities for being a trusted, reliable resource.

If you are ready to experience the difference working with a local independent insurance agent can make, simply search this list of highly qualified and knowledgeable agents for an office near you and reach out to them. Then, you can leave the rest of the insurance process in their hands.