This article was created in partnership with Hagerty.
The leaves are falling, the weather is turning - Fall is well and truly here. And for brokers, this fall presents a timely and strategic opportunity to deepen their client relationships -particularly with those who own collector and classic vehicles. According to Todd Hutcheson, vice president of Hagerty Canada, this seasonal transition is far more than a maintenance task, it’s a chance to reconnect with your customers ahead of winter.
“Fall is one of the best opportunities to reconnect with clients who own classic and collector vehicles,” Hutcheson told IB. “The transition to winter storage is not simply about keeping cars safe in garages. It’s also the right time to revisit vehicle valuations, re-address coverage gaps between standard and specialty insurance, and share best practices for off-season storage.”
Collector vehicles, he noted, are often both financially and emotionally valuable. Ensuring they are properly protected not only secures the asset but also strengthens trust between brokers and clients.
“When clients know their prized possessions are insured at the right value, protected against seasonal risks, and covered under policies designed specifically for collectors,” added Hutcheson. “It strengthens their bond with their broker for this season and the years ahead.”
One of the most important conversations brokers should initiate with collector car owners is the fundamental difference between standard auto insurance and specialty policies – such as those offered by Hagerty. Many clients, Hutcheson told IB, don’t understand that their standard auto policy simply doesn’t align with the unique needs of a classic vehicle.
“Standard policies rely on actual cash value (ACV) or stated value, often leaving clients underpaid after a loss,” he explained. “Specialty providers like Hagerty offer Guaranteed Value™ (agreed value) coverage, which guarantees a payout in the event of a covered total loss.”
Moreover, usage restrictions on traditional policies can be at odds with how enthusiasts actually drive their vehicles.
“[At Hagerty], we tailor our policies to how drivers use their special cars: tailored to pleasure driving, events, club activities and more,” added Hutcheson. “A standard auto policy likely means the claims support won’t meet the expectations of a collector vehicle owner. Specialty claims teams understand restoration requirements, can recommend repair shops, and make sure the vehicle receives authentic parts if a repair is needed. Hagerty’s claims process even allows the owner to choose a repair shop they entrust their vehicle with already.”
In a market where collector car values fluctuate significantly, reassessing a vehicle’s insured value is essential. Here, Hutcheson encourages brokers to prompt regular reviews, suggesting to revisit Guaranteed Value™ (agreed value) at least annually.* What’s more, tools such as Hagerty’s valuation platform including recent sales help ensure that coverage reflects current market conditions.
“These reviews ensure clients are neither underinsured nor overpaying for outdated valuations,” added Hutcheson.
Another way brokers can demonstrate their value is by offering clients access to highly tailored policy endorsements that standard insurance simply can’t provide.
“Specialty endorsements allow policies to be tailored to the needs of the individual classic or collector vehicle owner,” Hutcheson explained.
These include:
Cherished Salvage®, allowing clients to retain ownership of a totalled vehicle and still receive the full guaranteed value**.
Vehicle Under Construction, increasing the vehicle’s insured value as it undergoes restoration.
Evacuation Expense Coverage, which helps offset relocation costs during natural disasters.
Value Added Endorsements, a bundled package that includes spare parts, personal effects, valuable papers, accidental airbag deployment, post-loss trailering, and market value protection.
“These endorsements close coverage gaps left by standard auto or homeowner policies,” added Hutcheson, “reinforcing the added value of a collector-specific policy.”
As vehicles head into storage, brokers have a final role to play in protecting their clients’ investments: educating them on best practices.
“Key storage tips that brokers can recommend include: Use a battery maintainer or disconnect the battery. Add fuel stabilizer to prevent degradation. Inflate tires to recommended levels or use cradles to avoid flat spots,” Hutcheson advised.
Further recommendations include rodent prevention through sealed garages and deterrents, breathable car covers to avoid moisture build-up, and, ideally, climate-controlled storage environments. Enhanced security is also essential.
“Reinforced locks, theft and moisture monitoring systems, and GPS tracking devices can make a major difference,” he told IB.
This fall season, through value-driven conversations, customized coverage, and proactive service, brokers can position themselves as essential partners for collector car owners.
Hutcheson sums it up best: “Helping clients understand these distinctions protects them from financial and emotional disappointment if the unexpected occurs outside of driving season.”
*Less any deductible; BC, MB & SK: and after settlement with your government policy. Includes any applicable taxes unless prohibited by law. AB & QC: Agreed value applies under the Guaranteed Value Plus Endorsement.
**Submit claim under any government policy first and then our policy immediately after. Premium subject to change; may include DCPD/BVDC, if applicable.
Hagerty Canada, LLC policies are underwritten by Elite Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Aviva Canada Inc. Hagerty determines final risk acceptance. Some coverage not available in all provinces. This is a general description of coverage. All coverage subject to policy provisions, exclusions, and endorsements. Cherished Salvage & Hagerty are registered trademarks of the Hagerty Group LLC, ©2025 The Hagerty Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
