Operations of this kind can own, or be responsible for, extensive amounts of property. Consequently, they will often require the same fire protection considerations as any large property risk. Underwriters will closely review the age, construction, and updating of all buildings and equipment along with the types of both private and public fire protection that is available. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and housekeeping will be investigated to ascertain that appropriate safeguards and procedures have been instituted.

Many of these firms use one or more types of computerized equipment in their operations. These items can pose special hazard considerations not normally found with more traditional equipment. Some of the issues that will most likely be reviewed by an underwriter include the availability of replacement equipment, accessibility to back up power sources, and the vulnerability of critical equipment to electronic related hazards (i.e. water damage, electrical surging, equipment breakdown, temperature/humidity change, etc.).

Probably the number one cause of auto losses is driver error. Consequently, cost underwriters will require that an established driver qualification program be in force for all persons who operate company vehicles. Such a program will vary depending on the scope of operations of the firm, but will generally involve a number of steps designed to insure that adequate driver selection, training, and on-going supervision is provided. For instance, requirements might include license checks along with written and road tests for all new drivers; motor vehicle record checks on an annual basis for all existing drivers; and compliance with all applicable D.O.T., I.C.C. and state agency regulations including physical exams, accident reporting, drug testing of drivers or other mandated government regulations.

Another major cause of auto claims is improperly maintained vehicles. All insurance companies will require that firms establish a vehicle maintenance program that includes written service and repair records; out-of-service standards; regular vehicle inspections including driver checks prior to and after each trip; and mandatory replacement schedules for both equipment and vehicles.

Public access to showrooms, open lots, servicing areas, and parking lots can lead to slip and fall related claims. Underwriters will review for procedures used to keep all public access areas free of water, snow,ice, and debris.

Underwriters will want a detailed description of the type of towing operation to determine the exposures. The types of tow jobs can vary from freelance to specialty jobs to contracts with motor clubs, construction firms, cities, etc. The type of equipment towed could fluctuate from private passenger autos, trucks or tractors, RV's, heavy equipment, airplane parts, etc. The radius of operations will also be of concern.

Workers' safety is a main concern with these insureds. Underwriters will want information regarding the number of new workers employed, what their duties are, how they are supervised, and what training and experience they have for the job they have been hired for.