3 minute readBusiness
Classify payroll correctly, document safety practices, manage claims early, consolidate policies with one carrier, consider higher deductibles, and review limits against actual exposure. Loss history is the largest long-run driver, so prevention pays more than shopping.
What you need to know
Experience modification
For workers' comp, a lower ex-mod compounds savings year after year. Early return-to-work programs help directly.
Package and bundle
Writing property, liability, auto, and comp with one carrier usually earns credits.
Deductible strategy
Higher deductibles on frequency-driven coverages can lower premium substantially.
Common mistakes
- Setting property and income limits from rounded-down guesses instead of real numbers.
- Skipping hired and non-owned auto because the business owns no vehicles.
- Signing contracts that require limits or wording the policy does not provide.
- Letting subcontractor certificates lapse, which shows up at audit.
- Treating insurance as a one-time purchase while the business keeps changing.
When to talk to an agent
Talk to an agent before signing a lease or a major contract, when you hire your first employee, when revenue or payroll changes materially, and any time you add a service, location or vehicle.
Frequently asked
This article is general information, not a policy or a promise of coverage. What your policy pays depends on its specific terms, limits and exclusions. Ask us to review your actual policy before making a decision.