Free Online Directory Helps Contractors Find Qualified Insurance Agents and Brokers

Release Date: June 4, 2007
Contact: Contact Us

DALLAS—The insurance needs of contractors are complex, and many insurance agents and brokers do not have substantial construction insurance expertise. Conversely, there are agents and brokers whose primary focus is providing insurance for contractors, and they are devoted to developing a deep understanding of the insurance and risk management needs of contractors. This is the type of agent or broker contractors want to use, but they can be difficult to find. However, a new online directory is now available to help. This new directory includes agents and brokers throughout the United States who have proven their contractor focus by passing five detailed examinations on construction risk management and insurance. It currently includes more than 400 agents and brokers, and is growing daily. Contractors can access it at absolutely no cost.

The individuals listed in the directory have earned the Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist (CRIS™) designation. This rigorous continuing education program was developed by International Risk Management Institute, Inc. (IRMI) and has been endorsed by the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA). Since it covers the most important construction risk management and insurance issues in its five-course curriculum, agents and brokers who invest the time and energy into studying for and passing these courses are demonstrating both a commitment to the construction industry and dedication to professionalism.

“There are many agent and broker directories available on the Internet,” said IRMI president Jack P. Gibson, CPCU, ARM, CRIS, “but this is the only one that requires passing construction risk management and insurance tests to qualify for a listing. An agent or broker cannot buy his or her way onto the list—he or she must pass the tests. This should hold a lot of weight with contractors who want an insurance representative who can get them the best coverage at the lowest price.”

For more information about the CRIS continuing education program and designation or to use the free construction agent/broker directory, visit the Web site at www.CRIS-CE.com.