Colonial General Insurance Agency, Inc. offers a focused Auto Repair Shop Insurance program designed for independent agents and brokers placing automotive service and repair accounts. With access to both admitted and non-admitted markets, Colonial General combines underwriting flexibility with market access and hands-on support to help you place a wide range of shop operations.
Overview of the Program From Colonial General
When you place business with Colonial General, you’re working with underwriters who specialize in the automotive repair niche. The program is built for general auto service shops, collision and body shops, and specialty repair centers. Coverage and limits are structured to protect customer vehicles, shop property, and on-site operations for small independent garages up through mid-sized repair facilities.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
This program is a strong fit for agents with clients such as:
- General auto repair and maintenance shops
- Brake and alignment specialists
- Muffler and exhaust repair shops
- Transmission and engine rebuilders
- Shops that install vehicle wraps (requires proper installer training)
- Facilities performing alternative fuel service and repair
Colonial General will consider accounts with lift kits or suspension modifications provided the lift does not exceed 6 inches. Light-duty towing operations can be placed when supported by appropriate documentation and risk controls.
Example placements you might submit: a single-location general repair shop with limited customer storage, or a mid-sized muffler/exhaust specialist with a small towing operation and in-transit exposures.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
Key coverages available through this program include:
- Garage Liability limits up to $1,000,000 per accident
- $3,000,000 General Liability aggregate
- $5,000 Medical Payments
- Garage Keepers Coverage provided on a primary basis for specified causes of loss
- Dealers Physical Damage and Fire Legal Liability
- False Pretense Coverage
- Broadened Coverage endorsements
- In-Transit Coverage for towing operations
- Property coverage for buildings, tools, and equipment
These features help your clients manage exposures related to customer vehicles in custody, third-party injury and property damage, equipment losses, and exposures created while towing or transporting customer vehicles.
Underwriting Notes and Minimum Premiums
Colonial General emphasizes quick, case-by-case underwriting and competitive pricing. While specific minimum premium figures are not published here, eligibility and final pricing depend on the operation’s class, loss history, limits requested, and any specialty exposures. Typical submission requirements include a completed application, current loss runs (if applicable), and documentation for specialty operations such as towing or alternative fuel work.
Territories and Availability
The program is available in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, ID, NV, NM, UT, and WY. Admitted or surplus lines availability varies by state and account specifics; Colonial General can advise on the correct market placement.
Why Work With Colonial General
As a Managing General Agency and Excess & Surplus Lines Broker, Colonial General provides agents with access to multiple competitive markets and experienced underwriters focused on auto repair risks. Their strengths include niche underwriting expertise, flexible placement options (admitted and non-admitted), and responsive service to help you move accounts quickly. Whether you’re placing a simple single-location shop or a more complex account involving towing or specialty services, Colonial General can partner with you to find the appropriate coverage solution.
For more information, visit the Colonial General company profile or go directly to the Auto Repair Shop Insurance program page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accounts are a good fit for this program?
General auto repair shops, brake and alignment services, muffler shops, and light-duty towing operations are ideal. Specialty shops (for example, alternative fuel or vehicle wrap installers) may qualify when you provide supporting documentation and evidence of proper training or controls.
Can shops with lift kits or modified suspensions be covered?
Yes. Shops that install lift kits or perform suspension modifications can be considered provided the lift does not exceed 6 inches and the installation practices meet underwriting guidelines.
Is this program available in my state?
This program is offered in AZ, CA, CO, ID, NV, NM, UT, and WY. Availability of admitted or surplus lines markets depends on the state and the account’s specifics.
Does the program include Garage Keepers Coverage?
Yes. Garage Keepers Coverage is available on a primary basis for specified causes of loss—confirm coverage form details during submission.
What should I submit to get a quote?
Provide a completed application, loss runs (if any), and supporting documents for specialty operations such as towing, alternative fuel services, or vehicle wraps. Colonial General can advise on any additional requirements during intake.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.