In case you missed it or would like to rewatch, check out our recent Northeast Insider Session with GUARD that went live on April 8, 2026. Here, you'll learn more about GUARD's Workers Comp, BOP, Commercial Auto, and Commercial Umbrella coverage for small to mid-sized businesses. GUARD is a dedicated insurance provider of over four decades with exceptional service foundational to GUARD’s trusted brand, as their goal is to have mutually relevant partnerships.
GUARD Insurance Services Presentation
Jay, the director for the Northeast at GUARD, led a presentation about the company's services and products for FIRST Connect members. He outlined GUARD's vision to be a leading small business insurance provider, highlighting their commitment to the channel, relevant product suite, and modernization efforts. Jay discussed GUARD's core products, with workers' compensation being the lead focus for 2026, along with business owner's policies (BOP) and commercial auto insurance.
GUARD Insurance Product Updates
Jay presented updates on GUARD's insurance products, highlighting significant improvements in their Work Comp line including the removal of over 1,000 questions from the application process and expansion of open class codes from 130 to over 300. He announced that California now has the most aggressive pricing strategy as part of their "recipe for success" blueprint, which will be implemented across all states in Q2. Jay reported strong business performance with $48 million in new business premium issued this year, representing a 40% increase year-over-year, and noted that Work Comp is performing well in 2026 with a 31% increase in quotes. He also discussed GUARD's BOP product capabilities and acknowledged New York as a challenging market, suggesting focus on upstate regions rather than the boroughs and island areas.
Insurance Products and Coverage Options
Jay discussed various insurance products and coverage options available through GUARD, including Commercial Auto 2.0 with more aggressive pricing in specific states, a new monoline autopilot product coming to the Northeast, and Commercial Umbrella coverage that must sit over BOP policies. He outlined qualification criteria for hotel and habitational risks, focusing on newer, nicer properties with specific occupancy and TIV requirements, and described restaurant coverage options including family-style and fine dining establishments with specific liquor receipt limits. Jay also mentioned that buildings originally built for commercial use receive preferred treatment, with a 25% credit for single-tenant LRO risks.
GUARD Small Business Insurance Updates
Jay presented GUARD's small business insurance offerings and product evolution plans. He outlined their expanded appetite for various risk types, including residential properties repurposed for commercial use and mixed-use occupancies outside New York. Jay announced the launch of a new Monoline GL product focusing on artisan contractors in Q2, with plans to expand to other work comp class codes, and mentioned the addition of a Monoline property product in 2027. He highlighted preferred industries including artisan contractors, auto service, retail, restaurants, and wholesale distribution, and introduced a new "State Snapshots" feature on the GUARD platform that provides state-specific insurance writing data and recent wins.
GUARD Tools and Modernization Updates
Jay presented various tools and resources available through GUARD, including the state snapshot tool, Agency Service Center, and a 60-second appetite checker. He emphasized the importance of the dedicated support line, which connects agents directly with underwriters in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Jay also highlighted upcoming modernization efforts, including a new Agency Service Center dashboard and streamlined business journey expected in 2026, which will include reduced questions and an updated user interface.
Consultant Resources and Support Tools
Jay presented various resources available to consultants, including loss control services, a claims hotline, a mobile app, and a monthly newsletter called "Good Things at GUARD." He emphasized the significant backing from Berkshire Hathaway for the claims process and highlighted the tools available on the agency service center. McKenzie ended the conversation by encouraging attendees to submit questions via chat and mentioned that the session was recorded for future reference.