NORTH CAROLINA
IMS-North Carolina Participating Carriers
Access to IMS is available at no charge to IIANC members.
Appointments are based on mutually beneficial and profitable relationships, and no appointments are guaranteed.
Personal Lines
Alamance Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company, Foremost Signature Home & Auto, Heritage Insurance, JIBNA, Millers Mutual Insurance Company, NatGen Flood, Progressive, Prudent Pet, Travelers, and Universal North America Insurance Co., USLI
Commercial Lines
Attune, CNA Surety, Coterie , Frederick Mutual Insurance Company, NatGen, Progressive, RentSense, RMS Hospitality, SynchronoSure, USLI
Returning agent?
If you have previously submitted an application and want to request a sub-appointment for a new or additional carrier, please email Jean Bloszinsky.
Agency appointments are not guaranteed. Annual New Business production commitment is required for consideration. Agency is responsible for all producer licensing fees.
Alamance Farmers’ Mutual Ins. has been protecting North Carolina residents since 1892. Other insurance carriers may exit the state, leaving policyholders in limbo and you, their agent, scrambling to rewrite their policies. We live and work in the communities we serve, and we are here to stay. Because North Carolina deserves the best!
Our Niche - Protecting standard and preferred risks in target markets at affordable rates.
Select Homeowners (HO-3, HO-4, HO-6), Rural Homeowners HO-3, Secondary Homeowners HO-3, Tenant Occupied Dwelling FL-3
Up to 13%
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
Appointments are not guaranteed and are based on individual agency characteristics.
- Profitable with current carriers.
- Consistent opportunities for new business.
- North Carolina counties west of I-95.
Alamance Farmers’ Mutual’s agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the sub-producer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
Business Owners Policy – BOP+
The BOP+ is written with Accredited Surety and Casualty Company Inc. in all states except NY, In NY it is written with Blackboard Insurance Company.
Workers' Compensation
Workers Compensation is written with Employers Insurance Company.
Excess Liability
Excess Liability is written with Core Specialty
Flood Insurance
Flood Insurance is written with Neptune. Neptune’s products are offered with the financial security of Lloyd’s of London, Indian Harbor Insurance Company, or Transverse Specialty Insurance Company.
Cyber Liability Insurance
Cyber Liability is written with Coalition Inc. Coalition’s products are offered with the financial security of Allianz Group, Arch Specialty Insurance Company, Lloyd’s of London, Chaucer Insurance Company DAC, or Vantage Risk Specialty Insurance Company
General Liability and Professional Liability
General Liability and Professional Liability (E&O) is written with Hiscox
BOP+ Non-Cat States 15% new business and 12.5% renewal
BOP+ Cat States FL, TX, NC, MS 12.5% New / 10% Renewal
Excess Liability 12.5% new business and 12.5% renewal
WC 12% new business and 10% renewal
Neptune Flood 10% new business and 8% renewal
Hiscox GL and PL 15% new and 12.5% renewal
Cyber 15% new and 15% renewal
Commissions paid by Carrier
All lines of business noted above are available in the state of North Carolina
The Attune agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the subproducer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
The commercial surety market includes numerous types of bonds categorized as court judicial, court fiduciary, public official, license and permit, and many miscellaneous bonds that include guarantees of financial performance. CNA Surety companies also write fidelity bonds, which cover losses arising from employee dishonesty and errors & omissions liability insurance. Contract bonds guarantee the performance of obligations covered by a written agreement between two parties. The most common types include bid, performance, and payment bonds.
CNA Surety understands the needs of its customers and has built itself to be responsive, flexible, and focused on satisfying the unique requirements of each one of its customers. We can provide custom-tailored surety solutions to virtually all segments of the market, regardless of size or circumstance. This explains our continued success and validates our potential for growth.
For each bond that we write, our insurance producer is paid a commission that is based upon a percentage of the bond premium. That percentage varies based upon a number of factors some of which are: the type of bond, state of the bond obligation, and contractual arrangements with producers. We offer our producers a competitive commission package to complement our outstanding service capabilities. A schedule of commissions will be provided during the appointment process.
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
CNA Surety provides a full range of surety and fidelity bonds in all 50 states, Canada and Puerto Rico. CNA Surety has the capacity, experience, and dedication to serve a full range of bonding needs, from the smallest commercial bonds to multi-million dollar contract bonds.
The Agency agreement is between CNA Surety and Independent Market Solutions (IMS). When you agree to and e-sign the IMS sub-producer agreement, you also agree to all of the terms and conditions contained within the CNA Agency agreement, which will be provided during the appointment process.
Business Owners Policy (BOP), General Liability (GL), Professional Liability (PL)
The Data Behind SimplyBind Experience (video)
Coterie Insurance brings you the SimplyBind Experience (video)
TOP 100 Business Classes Where Coterie writes 100% Businesses
For BOP/GL/PL: 15% new and renewal
For WC: 12% new and renewal
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
BOP/GL/PL is available in all states
The Coterie agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the subproducer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
Foremost SignatureSM: Standard and Preferred Home & Automobile, Condominium Unit Owner, Personal Excess Liability Policy, Renters
Commissions ranging from 8% to 15% based on line of business.
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
Foremost has temporarily suspended partnering with new agents in the state.
Foremost Signature Auto & Home agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you e-sign the sub-producer agreement during the application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement. The contract will be provided after the appointment is approved by Foremost.
Business Owners Policy (BOP), Commercial Automobile, Commercial Umbrella, Homeowners, Dwelling Fire, Personal Umbrella
Varies by line of business and class of business with an average of 16%.
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
Business Owners Policy (BOP) and Commercial Umbrella – Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington, DC
Commercial Automobile – Maryland and Pennsylvania
*Delaware, North Carolina, Virginia and Washington, DC are under construction and expected to be available in Q1 2022
Homeowners and Personal Umbrella – Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia
*North Carolina is under construction and expected to be available in Q1 2022
Dwelling Fire – Maryland
Commercial Automobile, Commercial Umbrella and Personal Umbrella are not available on a monoline basis.
See Preferred Agency Profile for additional details.
The Frederick Mutual Insurance Company agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the sub-producer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
Homeowners (HO3), Homeowners (HO5), Condo (HO6), Renters (HO4), Dwelling Fire (DP3)
Homeowners (HO3, HO5),
Condo (HO6) ,
Dwelling Fire (DP3) – 14%/12%
Commissions paid by Carrier
Heritage has temporarily suspended partnering with new agents in North Carolina.
The Heritage Insurance agency agreement is between the Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the subproducer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
Personal Jewelry
20% on new business (fully complete submissions)
10% on renewals and endorsements
Commissions paid by Carrier
Available in all states and DC (approved but currently not writing in Kentucky)
Individual item limit $500,000; Schedules $2.5 million (higher limits available)
Minimum premium $50 (Worldwide coverage)
No blanket coverage
Special perils (All Risk) coverage including mysterious disappearance
No-deductible standard coverage (100/250/500/1000 available)
Exposure rated
Older appraisals (typed) acceptable
The JIBNA (Jewelry Insurance Brokerage of North America) agency agreement is between
Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and JIBNA. When you agree to and e-sign the sub-
producer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions,
guidelines, policies and procedures contained in the agency agreement
Millers Mutual is the Premier writer of single & multifamily housing investment properties, garden-style apartments, off-campus student housing, row homes and affordable housing which is written on a BOP.
13% New and 13% Renewal – Secondary IMS Appointment
10% New and 10% Renewal – Riverside Brokerage Option (No production commitment)
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
North Carolina – Counties West of I-95
Millers Mutual Insurance Company agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the subproducer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement. Contract will be provided after appointment approved by Millers Mutual.
Beyond Floods Excess & Surplus private flood – residential only
NFIP/ Federal Flood – residential & commercial
Beyond Floods E & S – 14% New/Renewal/ bonus potential available for book analysis
NFIP/Federal Flood – 20% New/Renewal/Rollover
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
We are open and appointing for all flood products in North Carolina
The National General agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the subproducer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
Commercial and Personal Auto, Renters, Motorcycle, Boat and Recreational Vehicles
Personal Auto w/ proof of prior auto ins, no lapse in coverage and HO NEW: 12%
Personal Auto w/ proof of prior auto ins, no lapse in coverage and HO REN: 8%
Personal Auto w/ proof of prior auto ins, no lapse in coverage and No HO NEW: 10%
Personal Auto w/ proof of prior auto ins, no lapse in coverage and No HO REN: 8%
Personal Auto w/ No proof of prior auto ins and No HO NEW: 8%
Personal Auto w/ No proof of prior auto ins and No HO REN: 8%
Motorcycle NEW: 13%
Motorcycle REN: 8%
Boat NEW: 8%
Boat REN: 8%
Recreational Vehicle NEW: 8%
Recreational Vehicle REN: 8%
Commercial Auto NEW: 8%
Commercial Auto REN: 8%
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
Agents must write two policies per month.
Must be in good standing with Progressive
Must not have been previously terminated by Progressive
Applicant must operate and maintain a storefront or retail location for their operation
Agency must maintain both and agency license and a producer license
Please email marketing@imsaccess.com for a copy of the agreement.
Personal Lines: Pet Insurance (Prudent Pet offers Comprehensive Accident & Illness plans or Accident-Only plans, with the ability to customize coverage and pricing options that work best for your customer’s budget. Pet insurance works on a reimbursement basis. The customer pays the vet directly, then submits their bill and we reimburse eligible expenses.
Annual limits from $10,000 to Unlimited
Deductibles from $100 to $1,000
Reimbursement Rates at 70%, 80% and 90%
Optional Coverage add-on’s include: Veterinary Exam Fee Coverage and/or Optional Wellness Coverage.
All Lines- 18% new business, 10% renewal
Commissions paid by Carrier
Personal Lines: Prudent Pet insurance is available statewide. Company prefers agencies with 1,000+ policies in force.
The Prudent Pet agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
DEPOSIT PLUS+ Renters Security Deposit Insurance, including the option of RETURN TO RENTER.
Coverage replaces cash deposits for tenants and provides more coverage for property owners/managers. Return to Renter converts a cash Security Deposit to an insurance product allowing for a return of cash security deposits to the tenant with the purchase of a policy mid-lease.
A Rated Insurance Carrier, one-time premium, minimum 25 dwellings. Additional coverages are available.
DEPOSIT PLUS+ is an indemnity product, NOT a bond. Coverage is written on a CLIP policy.
10%
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
Nationwide
The RentSense agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the subproducer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
General Liability, Liquor Liability & Assault & Battery for Hospitality Risks are written with Clear Blue Specialty and United National Group. Franchise Food General Liability and Property plus WC are written with Crum & Forster Specialty Insurance.
Clear Blue Specialty General Liability 10% new and 10% renewal.
United National General Liability 10% new and 10% renewal.
Crum & Forster General Liability, Property and WC 10% new business and 10% renewal.
Commissions paid by Carrier
General Liability, Liquor Liability & Assault & Battery for Hospitality Risks is available in all states except for VT and the District of Columbia DC. The Franchise Food package is written in all 50 states.
The RMS HG agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and RMS Hospitality Group. When you agree to and e-sign the sub producer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement. Note some programs and Excess and Surplus Lines.
Workers Compensation (learn more) – This coverage helps protect businesses for injuries to workers that arise from their employment and from wages that are lost due to those injuries. We have over 900 available governing class codes representing most of the classes associated with hazard grades A – F, and 15 classes within hazard G. Maximum unmodified manual premium is $35,000. Maximum experience mod is 1.35. Business we are actively writing includes small contractors, hospitality, light manufacturing, and agricultural risks (no trees or animals bigger than we are). We are not presently entertaining transportation, healthcare, Federal Act risks. The average bound premium to date is about $6000 per policy. The insurer is Sutton National, rated A- VIII by AM Best.
Follow Form Excess Liability (learn more) – This policy provides coverage above the limits of the scheduled underlying coverage. It offers no broader protection than that provided by the underlying policy. We have more than 550 available class codes. Limits capacity is $5 million, and we are attaching typically excess of primary $1 million or excess of $5 million excess of primary $1 million. Coverage is offered on a follow form excess liability basis, and we can sit over GL and Auto liability, but will not do auto by itself. We are actively quoting coverage within both residential and commercial contracting codes, hospitality including both restaurants and hotel/motel risks excess of $1 million primary insurance or $5 million excess of $5 million excess of Primary insurance. In addition, we are actively quoting habitational exposures excess of $6 million minimum attachment point. The average bound premium to date is $9,000. The maximum policy premium we entertain in our layer is $35,000. The carrier for this product is Sutton Specialty, rated A- VIII by AM Best.
General Liability (learn more) – This is a monoline general liability market currently focusing on trucker general liability. This liability coverage provides protection for premises and operations liability, and products/completed operations liability. We are expanding the GL program to 155 other class codes (targeting “live” at 11/15/2022). The maximum premium per policy will be limited to $35,000. The product is built around the ISO GL product language. The carrier for this product is Sutton Specialty, rated A- VIII by AM Best.
GigBOP® (learn more) – A package insurance for the gig workers, contractors, freelancers, and one-person bands. This coverage includes Business Personal Property, Business Liability, and Miscellaneous Professional Liability, uniquely crafted to meet the needs of modern small businesses. Currently supports 78 eligible class codes, soon to expand to 183 (11/1/2022 target to go “live”) as well as reducing the minimum policy premium to $500 and introducing a “starter” limit at $100,000 for a minimum policy premium of $350. We are actively quoting management consultants, bookkeepers, and building and home inspectors. The product includes business personal property with limits to $250,000, liability up to $ 1million and miscellaneous professional liability to $1 million. The carrier for this product is Sutton Specialty, rated A- VIII by AM Best.
For Big I agency members in good standing: 12.5% new business and 10% renewal.
Commissions paid by Carrier
- Workers Compensation – Currently available in 17 states: AL, FL, GA, IL, NC, TN, TX, and WI. Soon expanding to KY, MD and PA. (IMS is not currently licensed in AR, IA, IN, KS, MO, MS, OK, SC, & VA)
- Follow Form Excess Liability - Currently active nationwide (please check with IMS for licensing status outside of NC) on an E&S basis.
- Truckers General Liability - Currently available in 37 states on an E&S basis: AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, KY, LA, NC, SC, TN, TX, and WI. (IMS is not currently licensed in AK, AR, AZ, CO, HI, IA, ID, IN, KS, MN, MO, MS, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, UT, WA, WV, and WY if you have significant opportunities in any of these states please let us know)
- GigBOP® - Currently active nationwide (please check with IMS for licensing status outside of NC) on an E&S basis.
The SynchronoSure® agency agreement is between the individual signing agency or brokerage firm and SynchronoSure®. When you agree to and e-sign the agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
Please Read If Considering SynchronoSure:
Producer Sign-up for SynchronoSure must be completed by clicking this link https://synchronosure.com/producer-registration/
(Personal Lines Only) Automobile, Homeowners, Dwelling Fire, Specialty Lines
Auto – up to 10% New and Renewal
Home – up to 13% New and Renewal
Specialty Lines – Varies depending on product. Available upon Request
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
Years in the industry 5+ years
Years in agency 2+ years
Agency has a personal lines focus
Agency preferably has/follows a formal written business plan
Agency management system in place
Active website and social media presence required
Commitment to paperless on all new business
Agency committed to using Travelers Customer Care Center(CCC) Program
Profitable with current carriers
Account rounded focus – minimum of 6+ policies a month with Travelers
The Travelers agency agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the subproducer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement. Contract will be provided after appointment approved by Travelers.
Homeowners, Dwelling Fire and Flood. New IMS agents will be able to bind HO-3 between $100,000 and $1.5 million and Dwelling Fire between $75,000 and $1.5 million on homes 20 years or less with roofs 13 years or less.
15% new on homes 7 years or less,
12% on homes more than 7 years old.
10% on renewals.
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
No appointments offered on the barrier islands. Appointments will be considered in the remainder of NC, but policies are ex-wind in coastal mainland counties.
The Universal North America Insurance Co. agency agreement is between the Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the carrier. When you agree to and e-sign the subproducer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
Commercial Lines Product Highlights
Hospitality & Liquor Product Hightlights
Non-Profit Package Product Highlights
Personal Lines Product Highlights
Professional Lines Product Highlights
Special Event Product Highlights
Commercial and Personal Lines- 14% New Business and Renewal
Commissions paid by Independent Market Solutions
Across the state of NC. Wind guidelines per the state map
The Insurance Solutions Inc. agreement is between Independent Market Solutions (IMS) and the wholesale broker. When you agree to and e-sign the sub-producer agreement during this application process, you also agree to the instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures contained in the agency agreement.
APPLY FOR MARKET ACCESS
Independent Market Solutions facilitates relationships between agents who are unable to secure company appointments due to any number of reasons, and carriers with an appetite for writing coverage.