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In the world of personal insurance, finding the right balance between comprehensive coverage and affordable premiums can be challenging. We recently had the opportunity to help a family overcome this exact dilemma. Our team worked diligently to restructure their insurance portfolio, resulting in increased protection and decreased overall costs.   The Situation Our clients, a family with significant assets, found themselves in a precarious position. Their existing insurance coverage was inadequate, particularly in terms of liability protection. Their coverage limits didn't align with their net worth, leaving them exposed to potential financial risks.   Our Approach After a thorough assessment of the family's situation, we identified several key areas for improvement: Liability Coverage : We recognized the need for a substantial increase in liability protection. Home Insurance : The existing home insurance policy required significant adjustments. Auto Insurance : We saw an opportunity to optimize the auto insurance strategy. Emerging Risks : In today's digital age, we identified a gap in protection against cyber threats.   The Results Our team implemented a comprehensive strategy that addressed all the family's insurance needs: Added Umbrella Policy : We introduced a robust umbrella policy providing $10,000,000 in personal liability coverage. This policy also included $2,000,000 of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, offering an extra layer of protection. Increased Home Insurance : We boosted the home insurance coverage by 150%. The new policy includes guaranteed, unlimited rebuild coverage, ensuring the family's home is fully protected regardless of future construction costs. Restructured Deductibles : We realigned the deductible strategy for both home and auto insurance to better match the family's risk tolerance. This adjustment played a crucial role in optimizing their overall insurance costs. Personal Cyber Crime Coverage : Recognizing the growing threat of cyber-crimes, we added coverage up to $100,000 to protect against digital risks.   The Outcome: Enhanced Protection at Lower Costs By strategically increasing the family's risk assumption at lower levels, we were able to significantly enhance their protection against catastrophic losses. The restructured portfolio now offers superior coverage across all areas, particularly for high-impact events that posed the greatest financial risk.   The most remarkable aspect of this case? We achieved all of these improvements while simultaneously lowering the family's overall insurance costs.   Our commitment at Cottingham & Butler to providing tailored, comprehensive insurance solutions that protect our clients' assets and peace of mind, all while optimizing their insurance spend.

In the complex world of personal risk management, families with multiple properties often face unique challenges. Recently, our team at Cottingham Butler had the opportunity to assist a family in this exact situation, dramatically improving their coverage while significantly reducing their premiums. This case study showcases how strategic adjustments can lead to superior protection at a lower cost.   The Situation Our clients, a family owning multiple homes, came to us with a common but critical issue. Their existing personal risk management plan was inadequate, characterized by: Low deductibles across their policies Insufficient liability limits Gaps in coverage for modern risks This combination left them vulnerable to both minor claims and catastrophic events, while also paying higher premiums than necessary.   Our Approach After a comprehensive review of the family's risk profile and existing policies, we identified several key areas for improvement: Deductible strategy Liability coverage Protection against emerging risks Overall cost efficiency The Results Our team implemented a multi-faceted strategy to address all aspects of the family's insurance needs: Restructured Home and Auto Deductibles : We adjusted the deductible strategy for both home and auto insurance policies. By aligning these with the family's true risk tolerance, we created a more efficient risk transfer mechanism. Enhanced Umbrella Policy : We significantly increased the uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage limits in their umbrella policy to $10,000,000. This substantial boost provides crucial protection against high-impact events involving uninsured or underinsured parties. Added Personal Cyber Crime Coverage : Recognizing the growing threat of digital crimes, we incorporated personal cyber-crime coverage up to $50,000. This addition protects the family against a range of modern risks that traditional policies often overlook. Optimized Overall Insurance Costs : By strategically increasing the family's risk assumption at lower levels (through higher deductibles), we were able to secure much higher coverage limits for catastrophic risks. This rebalancing not only improved protection but also resulted in significant cost savings.   The Outcome: Enhanced Protection at Lower Costs The most remarkable aspect of this case is the dual benefit we achieved: Increased Coverage : We substantially improved the family's protection, especially against high-impact events that posed the greatest financial risk. Decreased Premiums : Despite the enhanced coverage, we managed to lower the family's overall insurance costs by an impressive 33%.   Our approach of increasing risk assumption in areas where the client can comfortably self-insure allowed us to secure much more robust coverage for truly catastrophic events. This not only provides better protection but also often results in overall premium savings.

In the world of high-net-worth individuals, insurance needs can be complex and multifaceted. Recently, Cottingham & Butler had the opportunity to assist the founder of a prominent last-mile transportation service in optimizing their personal insurance portfolio. This case study demonstrates how a thorough review and tailored approach can lead to significantly improved coverage and risk management.   The Situation Our client, a successful entrepreneur in the transportation industry, approached us with a seemingly straightforward request: to remove their personal vehicles, some of which were high value, from their commercial insurance program. However, as our team delved deeper into their overall insurance picture, we uncovered several critical issues: Absence of Personal Umbrella Policy : The client lacked a crucial layer of protection against potential liabilities. Underinsurance on Multiple Properties : Several of the client's properties, including personal residences and rentals, were significantly underinsured. Non-Optimized Claims Reduction Strategy : The existing insurance approach hadn't been structured to minimize the risk of claims, leaving the client exposed to unnecessary financial risks. th minor claims and catastrophic events, while also paying higher premiums than necessary.   Our Approach Recognizing the complexity of the client's needs, our experts sprang into action. We leveraged our extensive market knowledge and network to craft a comprehensive solution. Our approach focused on: Consolidating coverage across multiple properties Introducing robust liability protection Implementing loss prevention strategies The Results Our team successfully negotiated a comprehensive package that addressed all of the client's needs and more: Comprehensive Property Coverage : We consolidated insurance for all personal and rental properties into a cohesive program. This not only simplified management but also unlocked previously untapped discounts. $5 Million Umbrella Policy : We introduced a substantial umbrella policy, providing an additional $5 million in liability coverage. This extra layer of protection is crucial for high-net-worth individuals who may be at greater risk of lawsuits. Loss Prevention Optimization : We identified and implemented various loss prevention measures. These not only reduced the likelihood of claims but also qualified the client for additional discounts. Customized Vehicle Coverage : We successfully transitioned the client's personal vehicles, including high-value cars, off the commercial program and onto a more appropriate personal auto policy. Action Plan for Claims Reduction : We provided the client with a detailed action plan designed to further reduce the chance of claims. This proactive approach not only offers greater peace of mind but also translates into additional premium savings.   The Outcome: Enhanced Protection at Lower Costs By taking a holistic view of the client's insurance needs, we were able to transform a simple request into a comprehensive risk management solution. The client now enjoys: Consolidated and optimized property coverage Robust liability protection with a $5 million umbrella policy Appropriate coverage for high-value personal vehicles A proactive claims reduction strategy Multiple sources of premium savings through consolidation and loss prevention   This case exemplifies Cottingham & Butler’s commitment to thorough analysis, tailored solutions, and ongoing risk management. By addressing not just the immediate need but the entire risk landscape, we provided our client with both enhanced protection and optimized insurance costs.

Better Every Day That is our promise to our clients, company, and people. It’s a commitment to challenging conventional wisdom, innovating, and improving how we serve our clients and grow as industry professionals. 4th largest privately and independently held insurance broker in the U.S. At Cottingham & Butler, we sell a promise – to show up and deliver for our clients during life’s toughest moments. Every day, we pair brilliant ideas with strategy, empathy and hard work that produces results that are the rival of the industry. SEE HOW WE HELPED BUSINESSES LIKE YOURS Trusted Insurance Advisors Cottingham & Butler is a privately-held, national insurance broker, and a leading provider of risk management and employee benefits insurance & consulting services. Property & Casualty Employee Benefits Solutions Captives & Programs Safety Management Services Claims Management Featured Insights Articles Understanding Your Options: Standard Market, Self-Insurance, and Captive Insurance Programs Discover the advantages of Standard Market, Self-Insurance, and Captive Insurance programs. Personal Lines Maximizing Protection While Minimizing Costs Personal Lines Optimizing Multi-Home Insurance: How We Increased Coverage and Decreased Premiums by 33% Personal Lines From Gaps to Comprehensive Coverage VIEW ALL INDUSTRY NEWS & EVENTS “The relationship that we have, and have always had, with Cottingham & Butler is trust. We listen to them, and they haven’t steered us wrong yet. Without Cottingham & Butler, it’d be hard for us to be where we are today.” David Freymiller | CEO, Freymiller People Who Make A Difference What makes Cottingham & Butler so special? It’s simple – our people. Our team is made up of extraordinarily talented individuals who consistently prioritize the success of our clients and their teammates, working to achieve the very best in everything they do. EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES

This Company Achieved $500,000 in Pharmacy Savings Case Study With Cottingham & Butler's Innovative Approach At a Glance The Challenge The Cottingham & Butler Approach Looking Ahead Cut Pharmacy Costs by $500,000 (71% of Total Pharmacy Spend) Key Wins Approximately $500,000 reduction in pharmacy claims year-to-date (71%), reducing per-member per-month (PMPM) spend from $165 to $48 Transition to United Healthcare provided employees with a robust national network and improved coverage flexibility for Rihm's workforce Savings allowed for reinvestment in employee-centric programs ​ Like what you see? Connect with our team! Client Profile Rihm Kenworth, the second oldest Kenworth dealership in the country with a 75+ year history, is a well-known entity in Minnesota and across the transportation industry. With approximately 280 employees, Rihm Kenworth partnered with Cottingham & Butler in October 2022 to optimize their benefits strategy and control rising costs. The Challenge The Challenge Rapidly increasing benefits costs year over year Limited flexibility with previous provider (HealthPartners) Multiple large specialty medication claims driving costs Need for more proactive, innovative benefits strategies to support growth Our Approach The Cottingham & Butler Approach In-Depth Analysis & Strategy Development Utilized our Pharmacy Toolkit to collect and analyze Rihm's claims data Conducted a thorough drug review to identify cost-saving opportunities Benchmarked against industry standards to pinpoint improvement areas Developed a tailored strategy, recommending the optimal combination of ControlRX and NaviCareRx programs Strategic Pharmacy Management Implemented our proprietary Control RX and NaviCareRx programs Cut pharmacy costs by 71%, reducing per-member per-month (PMPM) spend from $165 to $48 Projected YTD annual savings of $459,000 Data-Driven Cost Control Transitioned from a limited Minnesota-based network to United Healthcare's comprehensive national network Expanded access to care for employees across the country while maintaining cost efficiency Improved employee satisfaction through broader provider choice and improved coverage for out-of-state care Enhanced Clinical Oversight Ensured appropriate medication usage through specialty exclusions, orphan medication exclusions, and patient assistance programs Achieved significant savings with minimal disruption to employee care, maintaining high satisfaction levels. "Our collaboration with Cottingham & Butler has been transformative. Not only did we achieve substantial cost savings—nearly half a million dollars in just six months—but we've also significantly improved our employee benefits package." JB | Chief Operating Officer, Rihm Kenworth Looking Ahead Looking Ahead As Rihm Kenworth builds on this success, the focus remains on maintaining and extending the benefits of their optimized pharmacy program: Continuous monitoring and adjustment of the pharmacy benefit strategy to ensure sustained cost control Regular analysis of utilization trends to identify and address emerging cost drivers proactively Ongoing evaluation and implementation of innovative cost-saving measures, such as new drug management programs and procurement strategies Periodic benchmarking against industry standards to maintain a competitive edge in benefits offerings while managing costs effectively Free Case Study Download our free, printer-friendly case study now and gain instant access to valuable insights! DOWNLOAD THE CASE STUDY Relevant Resources How to Cut Healthcare Costs by Up to 30% We've compiled five of the most impactful considerations your company can make to save on health coverage costs while providing exceptional benefits plans for your employees. DOWNLOAD THE GUIDE Explore Our Cost Management Strategies We focus on minimizing expenses while ensuring your insurance investments retain their value. We integrate analytics, alternative funding methods, and forward-thinking claim management to optimize your benefits. LEARN MORE Population Health At the heart of our mission lies a commitment to your employees' wellbeing, understanding that a healthy workforce is a thriving workforce. We advocate for your employees' health and wellbeing because we know it's not just good for them; it's great for your bottom line. LEARN MORE Connect with our Employee Benefits Team

Personal Lines Insurance Tailored insurance solutions designed for your unique lifestyle and success. As individuals become more successful, they face risks that the mainstream insurance market cannot adequately cover with standard homeowner, automobile, and umbrella policies. Cottingham & Butler offers a private client insurance program tailored to fit your lifestyle and designed to prevent or reduce your likelihood of loss. The Cottingham & Butler Advantage Our personal lines insurance solutions are built on three core principles: Client Advocacy Our private client team works solely for you, not the insurance company Dedicated support for peace of mind for your family, assets, and wealth protection Clients are our number one priority Exclusive Access Partnerships with premier private client companies Ability to offer broader, more comprehensive coverage at competitive costs Drive competition for your business, bringing multiple solutions Thorough Exposure Review Comprehensive coverage review to identify and address gaps Maximization of carrier discounts and household protection measures Strategic deductible analysis for optimal cost-benefit balance Assessment of the negative impact of reporting small claims Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, our proprietary Personal Risk Assessment (PRA) process provides a complete roadmap for optimizing each client’s unique insurance program. We review coverage, risk transfer options, claims management, and loss prevention. The complete Personal Risk Assessment will analyze the following areas: Program Design : Is your program the best for you? Coverage Review : What is really in those policies? Liability Assessment : Does your coverage match your net worth? Risk Management : How effective are your risk solutions? ​ ​ ​ Comprehensive Insurance Solutions and Tailored Coverage for Every Aspect of Your Success Personal Lines Coverages High-value home insurance with unlimited rebuild coverage Luxury auto coverage with agreed value policies Personal umbrella liability up to $100,000,000 Valuable articles protection (blanket and scheduled coverage) Yacht and watercraft insurance Private aviation coverage Personal cyber crime coverage Personal Lines Key Features Unlimited rebuild coverage for homes Flexible deductible options (can be waived up to $25,000 for claims over $50,000) Backup of sewer & drain coverage Cash settlement option for total losses Agreed value for auto policies Worldwide coverage for insured personal articles Excess liability coverage up to $100,000,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage up to $10,000,000 "Cottingham & Butler thoroughly understood our needs and evaluated numerous options. They suggested coverage modifications we hadn't considered, resulting in a more comprehensive offering, better protection, and cost savings. Their professional approach left us completely satisfied with our partnership." Personal Lines Client | Chicago, IL Personal Lines Insurance Insight & Impact Personal Lines Maximizing Protection While Minimizing Costs In the world of personal insurance, finding the right balance between comprehensive coverage and affordable premiums can be challenging. Personal Lines Optimizing Multi-Home Insurance: How We Increased Coverage and Decreased Premiums by 33% This case study showcases how strategic adjustments can lead to superior protection at a lower cost. Personal Lines From Gaps to Comprehensive Coverage In the world of high-net-worth individuals, insurance needs can be complex and multifaceted. VIEW MORE Connect with a Personal Lines Insurance Specialist!