EP 29: I Didn’t Have Insurance… You Won’t Believe What Happened.. | Ft. Nick Lopers

🚗EP 29: I Didn’t Have Insurance… You Won’t Believe What Happened.. | Ft. Nick Lopers

🎙 Host: Andrew and Nick

👤 Guest: Nick – Advantage Insurance Brokers

📝 EPISODE OVERVIEW

In this episode, Andrew and Ercan sits down with Nick from Advantage Insurance Brokers to break down the essentials of insurance for automotive detailers. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your detailing business, this episode is packed with practical tips, real-life stories, and guidance to protect your business.

🛡 Why Insurance Matters in the Detailing Industry

Understanding the role of insurance in safeguarding your business.

Common risks faced by automotive detailers.

How insurance can protect against unexpected costs and lawsuits.

📋 Types of Insurance Every Detailer Should Know

1. Commercial General Liability (CGL)

- Covers slip-and-fall incidents at your shop.

- Protects against tenant legal liability (e.g., if you accidentally start a fire and damage the property).

- Covers damages caused by completed work (e.g., electronics damaged by water during detailing).

2. Garage Auto Policy

- Covers customers' vehicles in your care, custody, or control.

- Protects against accidents while employees are driving customer vehicles (e.g., test drives or pickups).

Nick highlights how these policies work differently in Ontario and Alberta but provide similar protections. He also emphasizes why mobile detailers and side hustlers need tailored coverage at a reduced limit.

💬 Andrew’s Experience: Switching to Nick’s Services

Andrew shares how switching to Advantage Insurance Brokers was a game-changer.

- Fast Quotes: Nick provided a quote in less than 24 hours, slashing Andrew’s previous premium by half while improving coverage.

- Simplified Process: No more waiting weeks for employee coverage or dealing with confusing paperwork.

- Expert Guidance: Nick’s deep knowledge of detailing-specific insurance made the transition seamless.

“Nick isn’t just an insurance guy; he’s the Andrew of insurance—automated, efficient, and trustworthy.” – Andrew

📉 WHEN TO FILE A CLAIM?

Nick provides clarity on when it makes sense to file a claim:

- Small Claims (e.g., under $5,000): Often better to pay out of pocket to avoid a 20% premium increase.

- Larger Claims For significant damages or liability, filing a claim ensures your business is protected.

Nick emphasizes the importance of having a proactive broker who can advise you on the best course of action, ensuring you don’t overpay or jeopardize your coverage.

🔥 CRAZY CLAIMS AND LESSONS LEARNED

Nick shares some wild stories from the world of detailing insurance:

- 📱 THE AIRBAG IMPRINT:

An employee rear-ended a bus while on their phone, leaving an airbag bruise as undeniable evidence.

- 🚗 CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFT:

Cars left overnight had their converters stolen, highlighting the importance of secure storage.

- 💨 FLYING HOODS:

A 30-year veteran detailer forgot to latch a hood, resulting in a shattered windshield.

These stories underscore why having the right coverage matters and how it can save your business from financial ruin.

🔍 BUSTING COMMON INSURANCE MYTHS

Nick tackles the most persistent misconceptions:

“I’m careful, so I don’t need insurance.” → Accidents happen — cracked Tesla glass and stolen parts are real risks.

“It’s too expensive.” → Often cheaper than a single high-end detail.

“I’m covered for everything.” → Not if you haven’t updated your policy for new services or tools.

📖 REAL-WORLD HORROR STORIES

From his claims desk, Nick recalls:

An employee rear-ending a bus while texting — $15,000 in damages and an airbag imprint of a phone on their face.

Catalytic converter theft from cars parked overnight.

A hood latch left unfastened, leading to a windshield shattering mid-test drive.

✈️ Jets, Boats & Bikes — The Wild Side of Detailing

Thinking of expanding into high-ticket detailing? Nick warns that every specialty has its own insurance needs.

PRIVATE JETS – Aviation policies can start around $1,500, but they’re non-negotiable if you want access to hangars.

LUXURY BOATS – Lakeside customers will expect proof you’re insured for work on the water.

MOTORCYCLES – A few a year? Maybe you can skip specialty coverage. But ask before you assume.

🔧 RISK-REDUCTION TIPS FOR DETAILERS

1. Install dash cams for accountability and accident evidence.

2. Keep keys locked in secure boxes.

3. Store vehicles in well-lit, monitored areas.

4. Regularly update your broker on business changes.

🧠 FINAL THOUGHTS Of this Episode

Insurance might not be the flashiest part of running a detailing business, but it’s undeniably one of the most important. In this episode, Nick from Advantage Insurance Brokers broke down the nitty-gritty of what coverage you need, why you need it, and how to navigate claims like a pro.

📞 WANT TO TALK COVERAGE?

📍If you’re in Ontario or Alberta, connect with

NICK at ADVANTAGE INSURANCE BROKERS. Even if you think you’re covered, you might be surprised at what you’re missing—and what you could save.

🔗 Check Out Nick Lopers @ Advantage Insurance Brokers!

🌐 Website: https://advantage-insurance.ca/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garage.insurance.broker/

📱 Email: nick@ai-brokers.ca

🎧 Listen now: Episode 29 of the SUDSTOSUCCESS Podcast

💬 Join The Conversation: Got questions or Share your own crazy insurance story? Drop it in the comments or reach out to Nick directly.

📢 Stay connected: Suds to Success on all platforms:

🌐 Website: sudstosuccesspodcast.com

📸 Instagram: @sudstosuccesspodcast

🎥 TikTok: @sudstosuccesspodcast

🎧 Catch This Episode 29 —

On Spotify, Apple, and Youtube

Here’s to smooth rides, shiny cars, and peace of mind—stay protected out there! 🚗✨

We’ll be back next week with another deep dive into the world of detailing and entrepreneurship.

Until then, happy detailing and take care!