Big I MN’s State National Director, Chad Bjugan from Richfield State Insurance and April Goodin, Big I MN Executive VP & CEO speak to the current Property Insurance Report writers for an update on what is happening in Minnesota.
Agents Happier With Carriers, But Policyholders Stay Cranky
Published in the Property Insurance Report on October 19, 2026
Independent agents are happier with personal lines carriers, thanks to lower rates and expanded insurer appetites, according to J.D. Power’s 2026 study of independent agents. As the market softens, agents’ views of carriers hinge more on trust and innovation than on price.
While overall satisfaction for both personal and commercial lines has improved from a recent low point in 2022, the postpandemic era of rate hikes and stricter underwriting looms over agent relationships with policyholders. Agents still face more pressure to explain tighter coverages and complicated policies amid broader affordability challenges.
Agents told J.D. Power that satisfaction with personal lines carriers over the last year improved most in product competitiveness, business support and compensation. Satisfaction increased slightly for ease of doing business, while agents were less satisfied in two categories:
