Commercial Insurance for Your Auto Repair Business

Auto repair shops face a mix of hands-on work, customer interaction, costly equipment, and constant movement of vehicles. With so many moving parts, even a single incident—an injured customer, damaged vehicle, or equipment failure—can disrupt operations. Commercial insurance helps repair businesses stay protected when unexpected problems arise.

Protecting Customer Vehicles

Customers trust you with one of their most valuable assets. Garage liability and garagekeepers coverage help protect against claims of damage to customer vehicles while they’re in your care. Whether a vehicle is being test-driven, stored overnight, or moved around the lot, this protection helps reduce the financial impact of accidents.

Coverage for Buildings, Tools, and Equipment

Auto repair shops rely on lifts, diagnostic machines, specialty tools, and parts inventories. Property insurance helps cover losses from fire, theft, vandalism, or severe weather. This support is important because replacing high-value equipment can be costly and may interrupt workflow if repairs or replacements are delayed.

Managing Liability Risks

Shops that work directly with the public face potential liability claims, including slip-and-fall injuries or allegations that a repair caused a mechanical issue. General liability coverage helps address these concerns, including legal costs and related expenses. It provides a financial buffer when accidents or claims occur.

Employees and Workplace Safety

Workers’ compensation coverage supports employees who experience on-the-job injuries, which can be more common in environments with heavy machinery or hazardous materials. This protection helps ensure workers receive appropriate care while helping the business manage the associated expenses.

Supporting Business Continuity

Many auto repair shops rely on steady workflow and consistent income. Business interruption coverage can assist with ongoing expenses if a covered event forces the shop to close temporarily, helping the business recover more smoothly.

Sound Choice Insurance Agency, Inc: Your Home for Lynnwood, WA Commercial Insurance

If you’re looking for commercial insurance, we’ve got you covered. At Sound Choice Insurance Agency, Inc, we’re proud to serve the Lynnwood, WA area. Reach out to our team today to chat with one of our agents.

Should You File A Claim For Petty Theft?

Commercial insurance in Lynnwood, WA, is designed to protect your business’s financial assets. Whether you are dealing with an injured employee or a theft incident, it can help cover losses. However, there are important factors to consider before filing a claim.

Coverage Limitations

Commercial insurance policies vary widely in their coverage. Property insurance often covers inventory, including the cost of replacing stolen items. However, some policies specifically exclude theft. It’s essential to consult with an agent at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc to confirm whether theft is a covered peril under your policy.

Many policies also exclude intentional acts committed by employers or employees. For example, if an employee steals from your business, your claim may be denied. While you can pursue legal action against the employee, the insurance policy may not provide coverage for such incidents.

Additionally, filing a claim for petty theft often requires a police report. Some insurance companies impose strict deadlines, such as requiring claims to be filed within 14 days of the incident.

Deductible Considerations

Most commercial insurance policies include a deductible, which is the amount you must pay before the insurance covers the remaining costs. For minor theft cases, filing a claim may not be financially worthwhile. For instance, if your deductible is $500 but the stolen merchandise is worth $250, filing a claim would result in a financial loss.

It’s also important to consider the potential impact on your monthly premium. Filing a claim may lead to an increase in your insurance rates. An agent at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc can help you evaluate the pros and cons of filing a claim, ensuring you make the best decision for your business.

Contact us today to discuss your commercial insurance needs. We proudly serve the Lynnwood, WA, area.