When you work with an insurance agent, you expect them to be on your side — helping you save money, protect what matters, and make smart decisions. And most agents do just that. But not all.
Some are stretched thin. Others are stuck in outdated processes. A few may be more focused on their commission than your coverage. If you’ve ever wondered whether your agent is truly working for you — or just counting down to your next renewal — here are five red flags you shouldn’t ignore.
If your agent seems to have a one-size-fits-all answer — and that answer is always the same carrier — you might not be getting a real comparison.
Independent insurance agents have access to multiple carriers. That’s their biggest advantage. They’re supposed to shop the market on your behalf, not funnel every client into one box. When the recommendation never changes — regardless of your car, your zip code, or your budget — it’s a sign they’re either cutting corners or steering you toward the company that benefits them the most.
A great agent presents options and walks you through the pros and cons of each one. If you’re not seeing alternatives, you’re not getting advice. You’re getting sold.
You shouldn’t need a law degree to understand your insurance policy. It’s your agent’s job to translate the fine print into real-world clarity.
If your agent avoids straight answers, tosses around jargon, or fumbles when you ask about things like exclusions or deductibles, that’s a red flag. You deserve to know exactly what’s covered, what’s not, and how your policy works — without needing to decode it yourself.
A trusted local insurance advisor won’t just answer your questions — they’ll help you ask better ones.
Your life changes. Your coverage should, too.
Bought a new car? Renovated your home? Added a teen driver? These are all changes that can affect your policy — and your rates. Proactive agents know this and schedule annual reviews to update your coverage and check for better options or new discounts.
If your agent has never once called or emailed you for a check-in, that’s a signal you’ve become just another renewal. You want someone who acts like a partner, not a policy-pusher.
Let’s be honest — claims are where insurance either shines or fails. If your agent avoids the topic, shrugs off your questions, or blames everything on “corporate,” that’s a problem.
Your agent should be upfront about how the claims process works, how long it usually takes, what role they play, and what to expect. The best agents act as your advocate — not a middleman who disappears when you actually need help.
If asking about claims makes your agent squirm, ask yourself why.
If your agent only shows up once a year — right before the renewal hits your inbox — that’s not a relationship. That’s a transaction.
Great agents stay visible year-round. They keep you in the loop on rate changes, new policy options, upcoming weather threats, or even just check in to say, “Hey, I saw this discount — it might apply to you.” If your agent disappears for 11 months and pops up just to secure your renewal, they’re maintaining an account, not serving a client.
Insurance is a long game. You want someone who plays it with you — not just shows up for kickoff.
Insurance is more than a product — it’s a relationship built on trust. You should feel confident, informed, and protected by the person handling your coverage.
If any of these red flags sound familiar, it might be time to look for someone who puts your interests first. And here’s the good news — you don’t have to change your insurance company to change your experience. Sometimes, it’s just about finding the right person to represent you.
If you’re questioning your coverage or your service, we’ll connect you with a vetted local insurance advisor who actually works for you. No pressure. No pushy sales. Just honest guidance from someone who understands what you need and why it matters.