Interview with Amanda Brinkman from Encompass

I recently had the good fortune of meeting our Encompass representative, Amanda Brinkman, who agreed to allow me to interview her about her carrier. Encompass is a property and casualty carrier specializing in personal lines coverages, especially high end homes.  Your MIBS customer service representatives are already very familiar with the differentiating qualities between our carriers.  However, as producers in the field meeting prospective clients, it is important for you to be able to understand some of these differences so that you can see opportunities and successfully convert them into new business.

Let’s start with some good news!

Is it true that your personal lines renewals are going out currently with little to no increases?

Yes, Condo, Renters and Auto will receive no overall rate change and the home rate will increase by 2.1%.   

What sets Encompass apart from other carriers?

Encompass was ranked 4th on the 2017 JD Power Ranking Survey for Property Claims Satisfaction.

Encompass’ claims of financial strength are backed by A.M. Best with an A+ (superior rating) A.M. Best independently rates the financial strength of insurance companies and the security of holding companies’ debt and preferred stock. More than merely passing judgment on past performance, a Best’s rating also provides an indication of how that company may be expected to perform in the future.

How are your coverages different than other carriers?

Our property location limit helps protect the home, contents and other structures up to 200% of your home’s value.3 With some other companies, claims cannot exceed the amount set by each piece of coverage, which could leave you with risky out of pocket expenses.



Does Encompass have any special coverage niches?

Does Encompass offer any special services to their insured’s?

Check out our Roadside Assistance App! Towing Service, Tire Assistance, Exclusive concierge service, and much more!



How is Encompass utilizing technology to work with agents and insureds?

MyEncompass: An easy-to-use online tool, MyEncompass gives you the ability to view policy information, pay your premium, request auto I.D. cards, sign up for an automated monthly payment plan and access your contact information.

 

Home Inventory Tool: Maintaining a thorough inventory of your home and personal property can provide invaluable peace of mind in the event of an emergency and help ease the stress of filing a home claim. Our Home Inventory Tool makes the process easy, with a room-by-room breakdown of your home. We encourage you to print a copy and store it in a safe place, such as a fireproof box.

 

Calculators: If you’re looking to buy a home, lease a car, or if you’re just curious about home or car loans, we want to help. Check out these calculators for estimated monthly payments and more for your next milestone: https://www.encompassinsurance.com/insurance-resources/calculator.aspx



How is Encompass’s customer service?

What matters most to our customers matters most to us—and it shows. Whether it’s our exceptional service or personalized protection, get a glimpse into what it means to be a customer by taking a look at our insurance reviews.1

“I could not believe how fast and easy your insurance company made the entire process.”

I was so satisfied and I told everyone how happy I was with your service, especially since I was relatively new to your company.

— Susan M., Ohio

“I’ve been an Encompass customer for 4-5 years now, but had never made a claim.”

That changed when I hit a pothole early last week and damaged the front end of my car. I’m writing you to let you know I had far and away the best claims experience of my life.

Two phone calls, one fax and a check in the mail the same day. Emelda M. who opened the claim for me and Allen R. who was the adjuster were professional, respectful and moved things along quickly and effectively. Allen even took some extra time to educate me on a few points I wasn’t clear on.

Please tell your claims organization to keep up the good work. In insurance brand currency, a claims experience like that is golden.

— Susan B., Illinois

“I have never experienced anything like this house fire and it has been extremely traumatic.”

Bill and Cathy have been there from the beginning days of coping with my loss and walking me through the process. I cannot say enough wonderful things about the two of them! They have provided emotional support, as well as being professionally well-equipped to help us with all the details and procedures of filing a claim. They are exceptional in every way!

— Carol S., Kentucky

You or your insured can contact the Policyholder Service Center directly at 877-721-6150 with any questions or changes.

Conclusion

I hope this offered some insight into this carrier’s products and coverage so that you can find the clients that need the protection that Encompass can provide.  I plan on doing more of this type of blog, so if you have any questions or requests, please feel free to contact me or leave a comment in the comment section below.