Protect Retail Clients with SMART-U Insurance from SterlingRisk Programs
For more than two decades, SterlingRisk Programs has specialized in managing national risk purchasing groups and delivering tailored program solutions through a broad network of agents and brokers. Launched in 2014, the SMART-U Insurance Program is built specifically for retail operations—providing flexible, market-responsive coverage for store owners, tenants, landlords, merchants, and franchisees across many retail classes.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
SMART-U targets a wide range of retail-related risks, including but not limited to:
- Independent and multi-location retail store owners
- Shopping center tenants and landlords
- Franchise operators
- Specialty merchants and boutique retailers
Whether your client operates a single storefront, a regional chain, or leases space to multiple tenants, SMART-U can deliver tailored coverage solutions to match typical retail operations and exposures.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
SMART-U is designed to address the common exposures faced by retail businesses. Typical coverages available through the program include:
- General liability
- Property coverage for owned or leased locations
- Business interruption and loss of income
- Tenant improvements and betterments
- Equipment breakdown and crime coverage
We place business with carefully selected carriers to ensure competitive terms, reliable claims handling, and broad admitted availability. Most coverage is written on an admitted basis in the majority of available states.
Underwriting Notes and Minimum Premiums
Minimum premiums vary by size, location, and the nature of the retail operation. Submissions should include basic operational details, property information (when applicable), and loss history. SterlingRisk underwriters will evaluate new ventures as well as established businesses with clean to moderate loss records. Complex risks may require additional documentation or risk control strategies.
Territories and Availability
SMART-U is accessible in over 45 states, including major retail markets such as NY, CA, TX, FL, and IL, as well as the District of Columbia. Coverage availability and form filing status may vary by state; agents should consult with SterlingRisk for state-specific guidance.
Why Place Business with SterlingRisk Programs?
As a Managing General Agency, SterlingRisk Programs provides focused program underwriting and responsive service for retail accounts. Agents gain access to:
- Experienced program underwriters with retail expertise
- Broad appetite across retail classes
- Multiple carrier relationships and admitted placement where available
- Efficient quote turnaround and placement support
If you have retail clients who need dependable, tailored protection, SMART-U gives you a practical option to secure appropriate coverage and placement through SterlingRisk.
Example Accounts
- A single-location boutique clothing store seeking combined property and liability limits along with tenant improvements coverage following a recent remodel.
- A regional convenience-store operator with multiple leased locations needing a program that combines property, business interruption, and crime coverage across several states.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accounts are a good fit for this program?
SMART-U fits retail store owners, shopping center tenants and landlords, franchise operators, and specialty merchants across a wide range of retail sectors.
Is the SMART-U program admitted or non-admitted?
The program is written on an admitted basis in most available states, offering regulated forms and broader market acceptance where filings are required.
What states is the SMART-U program available in?
SMART-U is available in over 45 states, including major markets such as NY, CA, TX, FL, and IL, and is also accessible in DC. Availability can vary by state—confirm with SterlingRisk for specifics.
What information is required for a submission?
Provide basic operational details, property information (if applicable), and loss history. Underwriters may request additional documentation depending on the complexity of the risk.
Can new retail businesses qualify for this program?
Yes. New ventures are considered, particularly when they demonstrate sound planning and acceptable risk controls. Underwriting will review the business plan and exposures as part of the submission.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.