News Matrix Insurance Group

Month: February 2021


How to Choose the Right Insurance Broker
How to Choose the Right Insurance Broker

Posted on February 16, 2021 | by Alex | Posted in Insurance

Insurance is more than a commodity – it is the very thing that can keep your business afloat should disaster strike. It also has bottom-line functions. It can increase investor appeal and help a company remain profitable during downturns. Proper insurance is more than just a requirement, it is an essential business decision that should be made with care and knowledge.

Selecting an insurance broker in Perth for your company’s risk management needs is akin to choosing a partner with whom you’ll have a business relationship. Cost may be a concern, but it should not be your primary concern. So what then should you look for when selecting a commercial broker? Here is a roundup of considerations

What Type of Carriers and Coverages do They Offer?

One of the best ways to decipher a quality broker is by studying the carriers they represent. Only the most responsible and fiscally sound brokers get contracts with the best carriers. Make sure they work with A-rated carriers.  Check out their financial stability rating on Credit rating bureaus such as Standard and Poor’s and A.M. Best.

Also, investigate what insurance products your broker offers. Do so with an eye toward the future. Today you may be looking for a run of the mill Business Owners Policy (BOP), but what are your insurance needs in the future? As your business grows and changes, your insurance needs will likely do the same. Start a relationship with a broker who has the products and expertise to grow and change with you.

Lastly, look for a broker who can provide you with international coverage policies. In today’s tech sector, international operations are often the standard. Make sure your broker has access to policies with worldwide coverage.

Does Your Broker Know Your Industry?

Today’s business world is more specialized than ever. Since a broker is like a partner in your business and risk management, it‘s essential they understand your industry. Like other professionals, brokers sometimes specialize in specific industries.

Broker expertise is required to secure the best insurance coverage at the best rates especially with emerging technology businesses involved in blockchain or micro-mobility solutions. Not every broker is an expert in every risk. Be sure your broker knows your business.

Look into Your Broker’s Licensing and Operations

Most states require brokers to have a license and maintain continuing education requirements to sell or service insurance. Look for a broker that has the appropriate licenses to deal with your company’s geographical operations. If you conduct business in multiple states, be sure your broker has the proper licenses to secure your coverage in those states.

The same logic applies if you conduct international operations. You need a broker who has the proper licensing and contracts to obtain global coverage for your business.

Technology Should Foster Ease and Efficiency

When it comes to your business, select a broker who can offer you digital solutions to your most pressing concerns. For example, investigate the broker’s application process. Can it be completed digitally? What is the time frame for the submission process? Can the broker supply digital quotes?

Next, consider policy documents. Can your broker offer digital policy documents and endorsements? Can you bind a policy electronically? Of most importance to many commercial operations is the process of obtaining a Certificate of Insurance (COI), look for a broker who can provide digital COIs promptly.

There is nothing more frustrating than holding a bid or contract while you’re waiting for your broker to complete a COI.

A Smooth Quote Process is a Good Sign

The quoting process can speak volumes about how a broker operates. A competitive and best rate quote depends on gathering the most applicable underwriting information. Are your broker’s questions regarding your operations and their scope relevant? Do they understand the nuances of your business? Is the online submission process easy to navigate?

Also, ask yourself if the quoting process is professional. Does the broker inspire trust and confidence?

Claims Expertise is Essential

Claim time is where the rubber meets the road. A broker with a good track record in claim handling is essential. Find out what kind of claim services the brokerage offers. Do they have an in house claims team to handle the details of your claim and make sure you get a proper settlement?

Ask your broker about past claims handling experience to get an idea of their claim practices and services.

Customer Service Requests

Often once a broker secures coverage for your business, they turn your file over to an account executive who handles your coverage throughout the term. As your business grows and changes, your insurance coverage will likely change too. You will need endorsements, certificates, and have questions about coverage during the policy term.

It is essential that your brokerage can respond to these requests quickly and efficiently. Before selecting your commercial broker, ask about their policy service procedures. You may even like to meet the other team members who service your account.

Investigate the Broker’s Reputation

In today’s connected world it’s easier than ever to find reviews and testimonials about brokers. Check out third-party reviews and discussion threads on sites like Reddit. You can also ask the broker for testimonials or case studies from clients whose businesses are like yours.

Motor Trade Insurance
Motor Trade Insurance

Posted on February 16, 2021 | by Alex | Posted in Insurance

Motor trade insurance is the term used for a group of policies that provide cover for businesses who operate within the motor trade industry. Vehicle recovery agents, tyre fitters, valets, and mechanics face different risks, meaning they require tailor-made insurance policies to meet their specific needs.

Regardless of their work, each motor trader should have a comprehensive motor trade insurance cover in place. In this article, we’ll discuss the list of things that are covered by motor trade insurance so you can avail the right policy for your business.

Public liability for motor trades

One of the most important insurances available to motor traders is public liability insurance. The following questions can help you assess the level of cover you need for your business:

  • Do you repair high value or luxury vehicles?
  • Do you drive customer cars?
  • Do you repair/service commercial vehicles with over 2 tonnes of load capacity?
  • Do you repair earthmoving machinery and other mobile equipment?
  • Do you have a repairs division within your business?

These factors are crucial in determining the appropriate cover for your business as some insurers tend to exclude liability on some of the vehicles mentioned.

Fire and specified perils

This type of insurance provides cover against unforeseen contingencies caused by accidental fires, explosion, and other forms of peril. The valuation of assets is made according to the market value of stock and customer vehicles/accessories.

You want to ensure that you’re insuring for the correct values as underinsurance penalties apply in case a claim is made and you’re underinsured.

Theft

Working in the motor trade industry requires plenty of tools and equipment, some of which are very expensive. This cover offers protection against theft due to forced entry. Things that are usually covered are:

  • Tools
  • Customer vehicles
  • Accessories
  • Stock
  • Contents on inside and outside of business premises

Professional indemnity

Covers liabilities related to any forms you complete or any advice that you give. Some examples are pre-purchase inspections and certificate of roadworthiness (RWC). Keep in mind that claims made under professional indemnity are admissible on a claims-made basis, meaning it covers the claim made against you, not when it happened.

Business vehicle cover

Oftentimes motor traders use business vehicles or loan vehicles for customers. As such, you want to ensure these vehicles are covered for your safety and peace of mind. Business vehicles can be insured for either third-party property damage only or fully comprehensive cover.

Worker’s compensation

Worker’s compensation is compulsory in Australia to provide protection to workers in the event of a work-related injury. Here at Matrix Insurance, we can obtain competitive insurance premiums for you along with Australia’s biggest insurers to provide a proactive and efficient claims service.

We suggest that you check with your local state authority to find out if any of your subcontractors may be classed as employees under the Worker’s Compensation legislation and if you’re required by law to insure subbies under the insurance policy.

Machinery and electronic breakdown

This covers repair costs to machinery and electronic equipment in the event of a breakdown. It’s best to refer to your insurance provider for guidance by asking for the cost of insuring individual items instead of a blanket cover as some machines and electronic equipment can be quite expensive to repair.
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Prompt claim service

We understand how important it is to deal with claims as swiftly as possible. With Matrix Insurance, you receive top priority thanks to a team of dedicated members to support you with any claims you make. This ensures you receive your full entitlements quickly and efficiently.

General property

The general property covers mobile tools and equipment that are in transit and are away from your business premises. This is particularly helpful for mobile mechanics and employees who attend to customer vehicles away from their business premises. This is particularly relevant for mobile mechanics and for those who attend customers vehicle away from their premises.

Plate glass

This covers expenses for broken glasses, whether it be interior or exterior. If you are renting premises, you may want to check your rental agreement to determine who’s responsible for any glass breakage.

Employee dishonesty

This covers theft or misappropriation of business funds by employees. If you have an employee paying and collecting your bills, you should definitely consider this to reduce the risk of embezzlement and protect your company funds.

Motor trade insurance is vital for any motor trader. That said, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to understand the different levels of cover and policies. The last thing you want is to have an inadequate cover or pay for unnecessary insurance premiums. To eliminate the guesswork, it’s best to contact a reputable insurance broker to guide you every step of the way.

If you’re looking for motor trade insurance within the Perth area, then look no further than Matrix Insurance. Contact us today and let us attend to your insurance needs!

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