What company or companies do you represent?
You want to know with whom you are doing business. Some insurance agents sell for just one company, which is called being a "Captive Agent" while other insurance agents sell for many companies; these agents are called "Independent Agents". Knowing who you are doing business will allow you to investigate that companies financial strengths and Insurance Department complaint records.
What are the A.M. Best ratings for the companies that your represent?
An A. M. Best's Financial Strength Rating is an independent opinion, based on a comprehensive quantitative and qualitative evaluation, of a company's balance sheet strength, operating performance and business profile. The Best's Financial Strength Rating (FSR) is an opinion of an insurer's ability to meet its obligations to policyholders. You want a company that is rated A or higher.
What are you doing to stay current with what is happening in the insurance industry? Have you earned any industry designations?
There is a vast curriculum of continuing education that is available to insurance agents. Investing their time and efforts in continuing education shows professionalism and allows the agent to keep current with the ever-changing insurance industry.
What are your office hours and are you available after hours for insurance related emergencies that I might have? If so, what is the telephone number?
Knowing when and how you can contact the agent/agency is important; you never know when you will need their assistance in an emergency.
Do you provide personal insurance reviews for your customers on a regular basis? How often do you recommend they be completed?
By conducting regular insurance review, you and your agent can determine if an adjustment in your coverage is necessary to make sure your assets are fully covered. You should have an insurance review every year to two years.
What discounts are available that might lower my specialty car insurance premiums?
Many insurance companies offer discounts on insurance; it doesn't hurt to ask what is available to you. Discounts are great; just make sure you are not reducing the amount of your coverage in the process.
What precautions does your agency take to protect my personal information?
With identity theft so widespread these days you need to know that your personal information is safe. Does the agent have procedures in place that will protect your personal information? Do your agent and insurer follow strict privacy policies? Who do they release your personal information to?
Do the insurance companies you represent have 24-hour claims services?
You never know when a claim will happen, knowing if your insurance company has 24hr. claim service can help you out in the middle of the night if you ever have the need for it.
Do you represent other companies who sell specialty car policies that offer the same coverage for a lesser premium?
Agents that are considered "Independent" have many companies they might place your insurance coverage with. Check to see if they have more than one company that offers the same type of coverage you need, there may be an advantage of one over the other.
Why should I buy my insurance from you?
This is the agent's opportunity to sell you himself or herself over another agent. How bad do they want your business, how will you be treated and what can you expect from their agency in the future.