In a message dated 10/18/99 1:51:56 PM !!!First Boot!!!, lafargue@iamerica.net writes: << How do you all handle insuring pianos while they are in your shop/possession? I will have pianos in my shop and be sending them to another tech and refinisher through rebuilding projects. Am I only responsible for coverage while in my possesion? What's the smartest way to handle that? What kind of insurer likes this type of policy? I've used Potter, Leonard & Cahan through the Guild and have just been insuring them while they are with me, but I'm wondering if I'm doing the wisest thing. Do you get proof of insurance before the other parties (movers, etc) take possession of the piano? Any information from those who have been doing it a lot is appreciated. Lance Lafargue, RPT >> Talk to the agent at Potter Leonard, and explain what you are doing. He will explain what kind of coverage you need. It sounds like you need tool and bailey converge. That protects your tools and your customer's instruments while they are in your possession. The bailey part is very important even if you don't do complete rebuilding, but just do action work. It covers the action while it is your possession. Suppose you have an accident, and an action you are taking home to regulate is completely busted. The insurance will pay you to rebuild the action. It might even pay for a whole new piano, (if you have the coverage), if the action is obsolete, and can't be repaired. The other insurance you should have is property and personal liability. That covers you in case you break that priceless antique vase, or just the front door, and if the customers gets hurt while you are performing your job. I carry it not so much to protect me in case I do something wrong, but in case the customers thinks I have done something wrong, and sues me. The insurance will pay the lawyer to defend you. Willem Blees
This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC