What does owning your book of business mean under your contract?
Ask whether the term describes renewal compensation, the right to service policies, or the right to contact clients after departure. A policy remains a contract between the client and insurer. Agents should not treat clients as property or override their choice of adviser.
What client data may you access or transfer?
A CRM export is not automatically permission to use the information elsewhere. Review consent, privacy obligations and restrictions on confidential records. Never move agency or policyholder data to a new system without confirming that the transfer is authorized.
Do servicing rights and renewal compensation always stay together?
An agent might retain some renewal eligibility without retaining servicing authority, or the reverse. Carrier rules and agency agreements both matter. Ask how client requests for a new agent are handled and what documentation is needed.
What should you know about Plan succession and departure carefully?
A book may have transfer restrictions, approval requirements or limits on sale. Review the documents with legal and tax advisers before planning a transfer. Obtain written answers rather than using the phrase 'own your business' as proof of a transferable asset.