Illinois auto repair shops need proper business insurance that will protect their business and property as well as the customer vehicles that are in their care.

An Illinois independent insurance agent knows the unique risks that auto repair shop owners face and can assist in finding proper coverage. Whether your garage focuses on specialty vehicles or commercial rigs, here's how to find good insurance.

What Is Auto Repair Shop Insurance?

Auto repair shop insurance is a type of Illinois business insurance that helps pay for any personal property damage as well as third-party property and liability damage that occur in your shop. 

According to insurance expert Jeffrey Green, auto repair shop insurance typically includes liability coverage, property damage, business auto insurance, and garage keepers insurance.

Industry revenue of “general automotive repair“ in Illinois

It is projected that the revenue of general automotive repair in Illinois will amount to approximately $2.67 billion over the next several years.

How to Insure an Auto Repair Shop In Illinois

Illinois auto shops need to consider all potential risks that their business faces. "Auto shops have special risks to cover, including damage to customers' cars while in the garage, and injury while on the premises," explained Green. 

When discussing insurance needs with your Illinois independent insurance agent, most shops should consider the following coverages.

• General business liability: Covers fees and medical bills associated with lawsuits related to claims for third-party bodily injury or property damage. 
• Garage liability: Covers the operations of the garage for injury and property damage separately from the business liability coverage. 
• Commercial property: Covers damage to structures, equipment, or inventory  from fire, wind, and other hazards. 
• Garage keepers liability: Covers damage while the customer's car is in the custody or control of the auto shop.
• Business auto insurance:  Covers customer cars that are being test-driven  or moved.
• Workers' compensation: Covers lost wages and medical treatment if an employee is injured or falls ill while on the job.
• Specialty insurance coverage: Additional coverage such as tow truck insurance, muffler shop insurance, radiator service insurance, and transmission repair insurance.

What Does Illinois Auto Repair Shop Insurance Cover?

A comprehensive auto repair shop insurance policy provides coverage for any damage that occurs to your property and personal assets, as well as the property of your customers while it's in your care. In addition, shop owners need to consider the safety of their employees.

Auto repair shop insurance covers a variety of situations:

• On-site third party injuries
• Damage to customer vehicles while being worked on or moved
• Property damage due to extreme weather
• Business vehicles
• Theft or vandalism
• Employee injury or illness
• Lost income due to temporary business closure

Working with an Illinois independent insurance agent can guarantee that you get the coverage you need to fit your shop. They can assist you in understanding optional coverages and add-ons to your policy.

What Isn't Covered By Illinois Auto Repair Shop Insurance?

Accidents happen, but some events can be avoided or are outside the coverage guidelines for insurance carriers.

Auto repair shop insurance will not cover the following scenarios:

• Flood damage without proper Illinois flood insurance
• General wear and tear 
• Equipment damage or breakdown without equipment breakdown coverage
• Mold
• Loss of income from fraud or illegal activities

Many exclusions to standard business insurance can be covered through add-ons, riders, or additional policies. 

How Much Does Auto Repair Shop Insurance Cost In Illinois?

Business insurance is highly customizable and every auto repair shop will have unique risks. An Illinois independent insurance agent can shop multiple carriers to get a variety of quotes for you.

In general, most companies will consider multiple factors when calculating your auto repair shop insurance premiums.

Not all auto repair shops need a large insurance package. Smaller shops can benefit from an Illinois business owners policy with a few add-ons. Your Illinois independent insurance agent can help you determine the best blend of coverage. 

How an Illinois Independent Insurance Agent Can Help You

Protecting your auto repair shop means providing coverage for yourself and your customers' property. An Illinois independent insurance agent is an expert in business insurance and understands the needs of auto repair shops.

Best of all, they'll talk with you free of charge about your business. They have worked with local Illinois insurance companies and can recommend a reputable company for coverage and handling claims.