The LPG Editorial Advisory Board on how propane retailers can attract the right insurer

September 15, 2026 By LP Gas 0 Comments

What steps can a propane retailer take to attract the right insurance provider for their operation?

“First, be committed. If you’ve never done this before, hire a reputable company trained in reviewing your company’s safety, compliance and training. Yes, this can be a little painful, especially if you’ve never done this before. However, this could be some of the best money you’ve ever invested in your company and your people.”

– Dan Richardson, President & CEO, Conger LP Gas, Tifton, Georgia

Jaenicke

“Providers will be attracted to a propane company that takes safety, training and other risk reduction methods seriously. This means leaning into PERC-vetted training for all employees and having documentation on file regarding individual employee training, driving record and other safety-related activities. Another important aspect is having up-to-date records.”

– Tom Jaenicke, Propane Specialist, ATomiK Creative Solutions, Charlevoix, Michigan

“Insurers underwrite culture, not just loss runs – so prepare your safety and operational story to demonstrate your commitment to safe operations. Build a relationship with the insurance company and ensure they understand the propane business.”

– Michelle Bimson Maggi, Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Ferrellgas, Liberty, Missouri

“The best way to attract the right insurance provider is to become the type of operation they want to insure. That starts with a strong safety culture, rigorous compliance, well-trained employees and a proactive approach to managing risk. Insurers want to see leadership commitment, operational discipline and continuous improvement.”

– Christina Armentano, Executive Vice President & COO, Paraco Gas, Rye Brook, New York

“Retailers should get their documentation in order first – then work through a broker who actually places propane accounts (association-affiliated specialty programs are a good idea). Start 90–120 days before renewal and submit a full operations narrative rather than a bare application. Showing willingness to take a higher deductible signals you trust your own safety record.”

– Dustin Delay, Vice President, Cost Management Solutions, Houston, Texas

“I may be biased, but networking at your state associations is key! Word of mouth from other retailers, meeting the insurance companies in person, learning which brokers are helpful; all of these things happen with face-to-face networking. You can also gain insight from seminars they put on about lowering your loss time injury rates and preventing common injuries.”

– Leslie Anderson, President & CEO, Propane Gas Association of New England, Portland, Maine

“Assuming that the right provider is the one that gives the coverage they need for the cheapest price, there’s a number of different things that will lead them to the right insurance provider. Building relationships, talking to people, shopping and gathering information – whether that’s at a state association and seeing what can be gleaned there, or an internet search or other ways.”

– Mike Walters, Vice President, Safety & Fleet, Superior Energy Systems, Columbia Station, Ohio

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