Great question Helena. I have done purchased insurance both ways. If you know exactly what you need you can go direct without worry (I've worked at 2 different insurance carriers so my comfort level is pretty high).

However, if you are unsure of your needs, working with a broker will be very helpful. It is their job to understand your business, your needs, the risks you face and the right coverage to protect you from experiencing loss.

Working with a broker who writes business with multiple insurance carriers can also benefit you. They can plug in the information you give them into a handful of providers to give you a range of price quotes. You can then work with them to refine what you need and move forward.

I hope that is helpful information for you.

I see the value in a broker more than just the best price. If they can deeply understand / compare different policy specifics beyond what you could do (or are prepared to) then the broker idea is a fantastic one.

Unfortunately many brokers are skewed to preferred networks and better commission, so it is very difficult to receive 100% impartial advice - putting you back at square one where you are better off investing in doing the full analysis and negotiation yourself.

I speak for more complex and higher risk related policies, and not everyday day standard ones when it is simply about best value.