About Your Agent

Kevin T. Perry, CRIS, Senior Commercial Agent

Congratulations to Mr. Perry for obtaining his CRIS (Construction Risk & Insurance Specialist) designation in 2009. 

1. Why did you become an insurance agent?

Some people think I did not have a choice seeing how I married into an insurance savy family, but the choice was all mine. For most people insurance is a requirement to purchase and maintain, but for a few (like me) we see it as an investment. You are investing into a company that will be by your side and sometimes hold your hand when you have loss. This investment starts with an insurance agent by gaining trust and building a relationship. I don’t like to toot my own horn, but I enjoy building strong valuable relationships. Being an insurance agent gives me meaning and purpose in the community and life. I certainly know that there would be no way that my wife and I could re-build our home if a hurricane struck it without insurance.

2. What areas of insurance do you specialize in (i.e.: auto, home, business, workers compensation, life, health, claims, etc.)?

I specialize in workers compensation and general liability insurance for small to large contractors. I also sell commercial auto, business catastrophic liability, commercial bonds, business property insurance (motels, hotels, industrial buildings), garage liability, garage keepers liability, inland marine coverage (tools and equipment), investment property insurance, crime insurance, and package policies.

3. What special characteristics do you have that may be shown in working with the public?

One of the characteristics that stand out more than others is the enthusiasm I have in finding great insurance coverage for an affordable price in a timely fashion. I absolutely do not like having a lot of work on my desk. The sooner I can get paperwork to the next level, the better for me and my insureds.

4. Is there any advice you can give to someone that has just had a car accident or any other claim?

First and foremost, make sure all parties are okay and attend to any necessary injuries by way of medical professionals and/or licensed professionals. Did any necessary local authority come to the accident location and issue a report? If you had a property claim, did the local authorities respond if the property caught fire? Have you taken necessary measures to protect the property from future damage?

Secondly document as much information as possible (ie: other party’s name, address, home / work telephone number, any injuries, other parties involved, what happened, etc.) and report the accident to your insurance agent. Even if there is a potential claim, call your agent for advise. If there is property damage, try to obtain estimates and getting the repairs done immediately (if possible) and keep all receipts. Again, document everything and anything. One way of documenting a claim is by taking photos. The best source of preserving an occurrence is to take a photo.

These are a few suggestions, but keep in mind that you should always consult with your licensed insurance agent prior to placing a claim in with your insurance company regardless of the claim. If your agent if not available (due to an after hours claim), certainly call the insurance company directly and immediately. Always remember to document the accident and/or extent of the damage.

5. Where were you born? If you do not live in the same area you were born, why did you move?

Richmond, Virginia. I have always lived in the Richmond, Virginia area (between Chesterfield, Richmond and Dinwiddie, these are the only places I’ve lived).

6. Do you have any children?

I have two daughters, Madilynn and Loraly. My wife and I plan to have two more children in the future.

7. Do you have any pets and what are their names?

We have one dog, Bruster (Beagel) and one cat, Darlin.

8. What hobbies do you have?

I enjoy farming and wine tasting. Virginia has the most beautiful and tasty wineries.

9. If you could relive any moment of your life, what moment would it be?

The greatest moment of my life thus far has been when my Daughters were born. I would love to relive those moments again. It has been the happiest days of my life.

10. What makes you successful as an insurance agent?

Being successful is not always about bringing or making the big bucks; it also has to do with exceptional service. I treat people how I would want to be treated. My success is printed on each page of each file I touch.

11. What types of music do you listen to?

Folk, Contemporary Folk, Indie Rock, Classic Rock, Pop Rock.

12. Why should potential insureds buy insurance from you?

Not only will my insureds receive a great product and great price; they will also get great service. I start working on your policies every year about 60 – 90 days prior. This allows me to review your current exposures, property values, payroll, etc. in order for me to shop for better premium. Since we’re independent agents, we can shop several carriers every year for you. I’ll also wont be the person you hear or see just once a year. I’ll keep in touch with you throughout the year to align your policies properly.

13. If you won the lottery, what would you do with the winnings?

I think the first thing I would do (after contacting my attorney, accountant, investment coordinator, and insurance agent) is to set up a college fund for my children and future grand-children. I would then pay off all my debt, pay off my parents and in-laws debt, and purchase an adequate home. After that, I’m not too sure; maybe retire.

14. What did you want to become when you grew up?

Firefighter.

15. What are your dreams?

To live long and enjoy life with my family.

16. What foods do you like and dislike?

I can’t get enough of corn pudding. I just love the stuff.

17. What is your middle name?

Thomas (My Father’s first name).

18. Why is it important for you to come to this job everyday?

First, I have an invested interest in the company as it is family owned. Secondly, I enjoy my job because I can help people invest in getting back to where they were before a loss if they have a claim. I am an important asset to not just to the company but to my insureds. They look to me for guidance and advice when something irregular occurs.

 

Email:  kperry@dyecoins.com