GUARD Accepting BOP Submissions in 2 States

GUARD Insurance Group is now accepting businessowner's policy (BOP) submissions in Pennsylvania and New Jersey as well as commercial auto in Pennsylvania.

Over the next several years, the company plans to introduce these new products in additional states as a natural complement to GUARD's traditional specialty -- workers' compensation insurance. Although the company plans to market these policies through an existing network of contracted independent agents and brokers, producers with substantial books of smaller commercial accounts are encouraged to contact the company about possible representation.

GUARD's new and growing family of commercial products is bundled under the trademarked name -- the GUARD Business Shield. The group's businessowner's policy is ISO-based and has been customized to include numerous increased limits and extensions. Although GUARD has targeted several vertical markets (including restaurants, retail goods and services, professional offices, artisan contractors, and certain habitational accounts), a variety of other classifications are considered. The group is generally looking for risks with a per-location combined building and business personal property value of up to $5 million.

GUARD's commercial auto product is a traditional ISO-based policy that targets the same audience as the classes identified for businessowner's coverage. While supporting lines are preferred, monoline policies are considered. Smaller fleets, local and intermediate travel, and vehicle values of $75,000 or less are typical of the kind of accounts sought.

According to Executive Vice President of Insurance Operations Marshall Kornblatt, "GUARD actively writes workers' comp coverage in 26 jurisdictions. By the middle of 2009, our plan is to introduce the GUARD Business Shield in select states as a comprehensive insurance solution featuring multiple lines of coverage able to address all of the characteristic needs of smaller businesses -- our chosen niche within the insurance marketplace."

Producers interested in contacting GUARD about possible appointments can call 1-800-673-2465, extension 4567, or can visit www.guard.com.