A deeper look at our segment: Automobile trade

From auto repair shops to used car sales, businesses in the automobile trade face risks that require specialized protection. Gore offers Commercial Property & Casualty coverages that work seamlessly with a Garage Auto policy, ensuring protection across both lines. This integrated approach reduces coverage gaps, simplifies policy management, and provides the added benefit of multiline discount savings. 
Appetite at a glance






Types of risk


Favourable attributes




Body shop
**Eligible if an approved paint booth is in place when painting services are offered**



Three years claims‑free history
Work limited to private passenger vehicles and light trucks
Incidental heavy vehicle work permitted (typically up to 25%)
Service bay access restricted to employees
Garage Automobile Policy in place

Ontario – with Gore
BC – with government auto insurance


Strong housekeeping and established risk management practices in place
Snow removal contract in place





Repair garages




Gas bars & car wash




Specialty shops – oil & lube, muffler, glass shops




Used car sales




 
General underwriting considerations


Specialized coverage needs*:

Elevator and Hoist Collision – when equipment is rented, leased, or borrowed, this CGL extension fills a niche gap by protecting businesses against direct physical loss to other people’s property resulting from the use of hoists.
Personal Property of Employees – included as an extension of the Commercial Building, Equipment, and Stock Form, this coverage allows employee property to be classified under “equipment.” This coverage safeguards business assets while also protecting employees’ personal property — a simple, cost‑effective way to demonstrate you value your team and enhance overall risk management strategy.

*Subject to the terms and conditions of the policy
Submission quality:  
When sending a submission, be sure to mention the following to increase quote competitiveness and eligibility:

Experience & reliability – years in business or related experience, claims history, and confirmation of continuous coverage with no gaps
Professional standards – licensed mechanics and certified staff, showcasing expertise and credibility
Workplace care – well-kept, organized workspaces with proper safety practices and certified storage and disposal containers
Premises condition – for older buildings (40+ years), updates to key systems (electrical, plumbing, heating, roofing) and well-maintained facilities are essential
Enhanced protection – alarm systems in place to safeguard property and operations
Garage Auto submission – include the Garage Auto application and supplement

Real-world example: Why we wrote this account


Client profile: repair garage 

Established: 2010
Annual revenue: $2.5M

Risk highlights:

Garage Auto bound with Gore
Well-maintained premises with alarm systems in place and no tire storage
Established company with continuous insurance coverage
Claims-free history
Clear risk management procedures, including a snow removal contract 

Why it was a fit:

Transparent quoting process with broker 
Solid industry experience 
No gaps in coverage or non-payments 
Quality of the risk allowed for competitive pricing