Most insurance agents and advisers will be both trustworthy and ethical, and will deliver an excellent service to those seeking high end commercial insurance. That being said, there remains a small but growing minority that will attempt to defraud you by providing bogus advice and a fraudulent service.

When purchasing insurance and utilizing the services of an adviser, there are several important scams that you need to watch out for. These will include having your premiums stolen, being sold phony insurance policies, and being sold coverage that you don't need. Fraudulent advisers will be adept at appearing legitimate and professional, and this tends to make it additionally difficult to determine whether or not a particular adviser is someone you can trust.

How do you find a trustworthy agent?

Some simple research should light your way. Online searches for reputable insurance advisers in your area should highlight some potential options. Furthermore, utilizing the phone directory may prove useful as well. Within a few minutes, you will find numerous advertisements, many of which will attempt to highlight an adviser's credibility by displaying industry awards, testimonials and other professional accolades. 

Naturally, reviewing an agent’s license is important. Any insurer needs a license to sell specific insurance products. As such, if you are seeking high end commercial insurance, you'll need to search for an adviser who is licensed to sell these types of policies. You'll need to check with your state’s insurance commission to verify whether a particular adviser has a full license to operate. You'll be able to do this either online, or via phone.

Another important resource to take advantage of will be the Better Business Bureau. Checking BBB records will help you determine whether or not an adviser has been subject to consumer complaints in the past. Any adviser with a poor record should be avoided. You will be able to check these records online for free.

Possibly the best way to find a reputable and trustworthy adviser is via a referral. If you have any trusted business associates who have used an adviser for their business insurance needs, consider utilizing the services of the same agent. This will eliminate any fears of running into a phony adviser.