Propane insurers share advice for marketers ahead of renewal

September 11, 2026 By LP Gas 0 Comments

Insurers working closely with the propane industry offered these perspectives and messages for LPG company leaders.

First West Insurance

Representative: W. Dan Cramer, Commercial Account Executive

Website: 1stwestinsurance.com

Company introduction: First West Insurance takes a long-term, consultative approach to serving propane marketers. The agency helps clients align safety practices, policies and procedures before renewal, so underwriters see a well-managed operation committed to limiting claims.

Message to propane marketers: Carrier appetite is improving for propane marketers that can demonstrate strong safety practices, complete records and measurable progress. Even a company with a significant past claim may find options when it can explain what happened, what it learned and how operations changed afterward. Pressure and leak tests, cathodic-protection records, hose inspections, driver training and vehicle documentation are receiving particular attention. Marketers should not wait until two months before renewal to address shortcomings. Starting six to eight months in advance gives the agency time to strengthen procedures, document improvements and present the account effectively. The central message is straightforward: Organized, accessible documentation can protect the company after a claim and help it earn stronger underwriting consideration.

JMcLean Energy Insurance

Representative: Ashley Carmon, Lead Insurance Agent

Website: energypropaneinsurance.com

Company introduction: JMcLean Energy Insurance specializes in coverage and risk-management support for propane and energy businesses. Its services address commercial property and auto, pollution and tank exposures, excess and umbrella liability, cyber risk, workers’ compensation and other industry-specific needs.

Message to propane marketers: Auto severity continues to influence insurance pricing, while excess and umbrella capacity is receiving scrutiny based on fleet size, geography, vehicle type, loss history and underlying controls. Pollution policies also require careful review because coverage can differ significantly, and cyber protection is becoming increasingly important as marketers rely on customer data, payment systems, remote access and connected operations. Marketers should begin renewal preparations early and give underwriters more than an application and loss runs. Document completed recommendations, explain what was learned from claims and show investments in driver screening, motor vehicle record monitoring, cameras, training and maintenance. Companies that can prove management understands its exposures and responds consistently are better positioned for favorable consideration.

PT Risk Management

Representative: Lauren Abbl, Producer

Website: ptrisk.com

Company introduction: PT Risk Management is a commercial insurance agency focused exclusively on the propane and petroleum industries. Its boots-on-the-ground approach includes visiting insured locations, evaluating exposures and helping clients prepare for carrier loss-control reviews.

Message to propane marketers: Proactive risk management remains essential as carriers ask more detailed questions about documentation, contracts, fleet practices and facility conditions. Propane marketers should maintain complete digital records of leak checks, service calls, appliance information and employee training while also addressing basic physical issues such as vegetation, faded placards, vehicle securement and site security. Customer tank and dispenser agreements should clearly assign responsibility and insurance obligations. Cameras, tank monitors and telematics can strengthen an account, but technology produces value only when management reviews the information and acts on it. Rather than expect one investment to generate a fixed discount, marketers should build a consistent safety program that demonstrates attention to risk throughout the year.

The Baldwin Group

Representatives: Paul Brown, Senior Managing Partner, Energy & Infrastructure; James M. Frommert, Vice President

Website: baldwin.com

Company introduction: The Baldwin Group is an independent insurance brokerage and advisory firm providing expertise and insights for clients. It delivers solutions in business insurance, specialty, employee benefits, retirement planning, reinsurance solutions and areas of private and personal insurance.

Message to propane marketers: Marketers are being judged increasingly on fleet safety, telematics, driver training and the consistency of their operating controls. Large verdicts are driving volatility in auto and umbrella lines, while acquisitions can create additional exposure when companies delay aligning hiring, training and documentation practices. The Baldwin Group encourages retailers to treat underwriters as partners and distinguish themselves from the broader propane class by explaining their specific risk controls before questions arise. Cameras, GPS monitoring, defensive-driving programs, OSHA and DOT training and mock audits can strengthen that case. Smaller operators may also benefit from outsourced risk-management support. Transparency, early preparation and documented evidence of best-in-class practices can help preserve coverage breadth and keep insurance costs as competitive as possible.

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