Jerry Mc,
I also do not
broadcast the fact that I am insured. And, I have walked from inspections when the buyer asked "Can I sue you?". However, I refuse to obfuscate and will answer the question or provide the binder when requested.
And, yes I have been sued. As has been said before, there are two types of home inspectors. Those that have been sued and those that are going to be sued. Providing a binder does not increase my liability.
Oh, yeah. I do tend to agree with your assessment regarding "preferred inspectors". Particularly when they are asking for money to post the business name.