When it comes to buying insurance, the choices are simple: do it yourself or use an insurance broker.
While it may be easier to go direct, especially with the growing availability of online products, a broker can provide you with added value and assistance when you most need it.
Price isnât everything
Small businesses on tight margins are very aware of costs, so itâs easy to always opt for the cheapest product. But when it comes to insurance, choosing the cheapest option can have expensive consequences.
If a policy appears too good to be true, itâs likely to be just that. You may find that when it comes time to make a claim, you arenât covered for what you need. Insurance brokers are able to compare policy prices and features to ensure you not only get value for money, but you are also fully covered for your requirements.
Covering all bases
While there is a number of online sites that can do an instant comparison of insurance companies and policies, these offerings donât take your specific situation into consideration.
A broker can provide a thorough assessment of your insurance needs and find a policy that better suits your specific needs. It may take a little longer than getting an online recommendation, but you can rest assured that youâll get the coverage you need.
âIf a policy appears too good to be true, itâs likely to be just thatâ
Know who youâre dealing with
Buying insurance direct may be easy and straightforward, but what about when you need to make a claim?
Weâre all familiar with the frustration of waiting on hold for a customer representative to get to us, only to be transferred to another department to deal with your particular request.
When you work with a broker, not only do you have an established relationship with the person who advised you on your policy, if you need to make a claim, you can hand the process over to them, leaving you free to run your business.
Lack of understanding a major risk
Michael White, Steadfastâs Broker Technical Manager, says the greatest risk of dealing with your insurance needs yourself is not understanding the product youâre buying. âSome policies, such as business interruption insurance, are quite complex,â he says.
âLiability policies can also be confusing. If you donât fully understand what youâre buying, then what you end up with may not be the most appropriate product for you. But you wonât know that until it comes time to make a claim.â
He adds the advantages of using a broker come into their own when there is a high value claim.
âIf someoneâs business premises has been destroyed and they have a $300,000 claim, then it can be very time-consuming compiling all the information needed to complete the claim,â he says. âThis is when youâre going to want someone who knows about insurance to be managing that process for you.â
Never used an insurance broker or advisor before? Talk to a broker or advisor today about the benefits they can bring to your business.
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Important notice â Steadfast Group Limited ABN 98 073 659 677
This general information does not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation or needs. It is also not financial advice, nor complete, so please discuss the full details with your insurance broker or adviser as to whether these types of insurance are appropriate for you. Deductibles, exclusions and limits apply. These insurances are issued by various insurers and can differ.