There are at least 5 things to look for when securing a good insurance agent.

1. Make sure the agent is certified with some kind of recognized insurance certificate. For property/casualty agents, they are have a CPCU certification. If they sell investments, life policies and securitites, make sure they have a Series 7 and Series 11 license. If they specialize in life, check for a CLU or Chartered Life Underwriter certification.
2. Check for any valid complaints with the Better Business Bureau. If they either get complaints or inquires. Make sure the inquiries do not have any confirmed complaints. Sometimes there could be inquiries but unjustified.
3. Preferably get an insurance “broker” as opposed to a “captured agent,” or “exclusive agent.”  A broker will more likely look out for your own interests as opposed to an exclusive wanting to sell you more coverage than you need.
4. Ask if you can talk with some of his/her clients for references. You need to feel at ease that the agent has proved their worthiness through real life relationships with these agents.
5. Ask many questions of the agent. You want to make sure you have the “whole picture” of how complete your agent will be on discussing anything that has to do with coverages. Think up of as many “what if” questions. Too many insureds find out too late of what they are NOT covered for as opposed as for what they are covered.

It wouldn’t hurt to find out the process when a claim is made. Is there 24 hour contact? Is it live assistance or recorded message centers you have to deal with. Can you get a 24 hour, round the clock assistance? Is there a checklist that the agent can provide when making a claim?

When you use due diligence when shopping for an agent, you can have peace of mind that you made all the right decisions when selecting your insurance agent.

For any further questions regarding your insurance needs, call Doug at 480-443-1952.