When you are looking for a new agent being honest, from the start, sets the relationship up for a good outcome. Insurance rates rely heavily on being honest. Premiums can change if an insured lies or hides issues that may come up after binding and insurance carriers can and will cancel policies because of it. When speaking to an insurance agent, for the first time, it is imperative you fully disclose everything.
Insurance premiums can drastically jump based on the number of claims someone has filed, accidents they have had, or additions they have made to their property. When you are working with an agent it is imperative that you disclose everything as the agent will best place you with a carrier that accepts your unique situation. No two families are alike and the biggest benefit to having an insurance agent is they can best meet your needs when you have been forthcoming.
As an insurance agent I have heard and seen it all. Lying gets you nowhere in insurance. A few examples of lies I have dealt with include, but not limited to, not disclosing that you have filed multiple claims on your current homeowner’s insurance, and they are dropping you as a client. Lying about the roof age knowing it will get a better premium only to have the inspector require proof and cancel the policy for lack of proof. Omitting the fact that there is a trampoline in the backyard and waiting until the inspection report comes back to ask for a carrier that does allow trampolines. Skirting the truth on your breed of dog a “mix” knowing full well the true breed they are is excluded from just about every insurance carrier are all examples of lying to your insurance agent.
Ultimately, being truthful with your agent best serves the client because then the agent is able to fight on your behalf. Your agent will fight for the best coverage and rate for your unique circumstance. Having an insurance agent who is willing to insure your unique situation is ultimately what you want so don’t start the relationship off with a lie.
