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As the construction industry continues to grow and change, our team of construction insurance and surety specialists is here to help you understand the unique challenges facing your business. Whether you engage in residential, commercial, or municipal projects, we provide customized coverage and service solutions designed to address your specific needs. Construction Industry Cottingham & Butler provides tailored insurance solutions for the construction industry's complex and evolving risks. Don't let construction's dynamic challenges hold you back. Our construction insurance and surety experts become an extension of your team, crafting customized solutions to address your specific project risks – residential, commercial, or municipal. We provide expertise and insurance solutions to address a range of construction business exposures. Coverage Solutions Alternative risk (high deductible structure programs, captives, and risk-sharing pools) Auto Builder’s risk Contractors Professional Contractors Pollution Drone coverage Environmental risks General liability coverage Management Liability (D&O/EPL/Fiduciary/Crime) and Cyber OCIP / CCIP / Wrap-Ups Professional liability insurance Property Surety Umbrella / Excess Workers’ compensation Service Solutions Certificate review Claims advocacy and management COI Tracking Software (RMC) Contract review and insurance policy compliance Contractual risk transfer consulting Experience modification review and analysis Full suite of safety services via wholly owned safety management service company Surety Bonds Toolbox Talks / Safety Training Videos Build Smarter, Build Stronger with CSIL In today's competitive construction landscape, every edge counts. CSIL, Cottingham & Butler’s member-owned group construction captive, empowers you to take control of your insurance destiny. Discover the CSIL captive advantage Featured Expertise The World of Construction Thrives on Trust The world of construction thrives on trust. From blueprints to finished structures, the entire process relies on the commitment of various parties. But what happens when things don't go according to plan? Enter surety bonds – the unseen guarantor of project completion in the construction industry. Investing in a surety bond is an investment in project success. It minimizes financial risks, opens doors to new opportunities, and fosters a collaborative environment built on trust. At Cottingham & Butler, our team of experts helps navigate the surety bond process, securing the most competitive rates and customized solutions for your specific construction needs. EXPLORE BOND OPTIONS Don't Let Statistics Define Your Safety Culture While the construction industry is vital to our modern world, it also holds it’s inherent safety risks. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction fatalities occur at a rate of 9.6 per 100,000 workers – significantly higher than the national average. These statistics translate to real challenges – workers’ compensation claims, project delays, and increased insurance premiums all stem from a weak safety culture. The good news? A proactive safety approach dramatically reduces these risks. Cottingham & Butler offers comprehensive safety services, including risk assessments and training programs, to empower construction companies to prioritize safety. START BUILDING A SAFER WORKPLACE TODAY! Download our construction brochure to learn more about our team, risk and insurance solutions, safety services, and more! DOWNLOAD OUR CONSTRUCTION BROCHURE Contractual obligations can be complex, but when properly managed, they can help manage the risks inherent to construction contractors. As a Cottingham & Butler client, you get exclusive access to insurance coverage law attorneys, providing the contractual risk transfer guidance you need, and the peace of mind you deserve. LEARN MORE Construction Insight & Impact Construction Insurance: What’s Softening, What Isn’t Emily Glanz breaks down the construction insurance market for CFMA Building Profits - covering rate trends, underwriting changes, and risk management strategies. Articles SafetySMART Success Story: Building a Unified Safety Culture Iowa construction company needed to unify safety programs across six business entities. Case Studies Improving the Prequalification Process for Construction Managers and Subcontractors This article touches on a few strategies for making the prequalification process as effective as possible for all involved. Articles VIEW MORE Connect with a Construction Expert!

Whether you engage in residential, commercial, or municipal projects, we provide customized coverage and service solutions designed to address your specific needs. Surety Bonds Enjoy Greater Flexibility CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM The Cottingham & Butler Surety team specializes in delivering surety bond solutions that provide unparalleled adaptability, giving you the freedom and confidence to pursue your goals with ease. Our Approach With an aim to structure a program that will provide a contractor with the flexibility to capitalize on strategic opportunities, we focus on consultancy to help our clients understand how best to position themselves for success. Program Design We analyze and improve surety programs to get you the best deal with flexible terms, so you can pursue the projects you want without overspending. Our experienced team closely evaluates your requirements, identifying areas for cost reduction and improved efficiency, while ensuring you have the necessary capacity to undertake projects of varying scales. Market Relationships We partner with a number of sureties on a regional and national level. We advocate for our clients and obtain results by leveraging our strong and deep relationships. Our extensive network allows you to connect with the right surety providers, ensuring you get the most favorable terms and conditions. Benchmarking & Services Our proprietary reports go well beyond financial performance. Through our unique process, we provide clients with insight that helps them outshine the competition. Our benchmarking services are designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of your standing in the industry. Subcontractor Default Insurance We help our clients limit the risk of subcontractor default through a comprehensive approach that includes a “constant qualification” (assessment and implementation), selection process, real time contractor qualification and verification, and contractual risk transfer. Our tailored approach to subcontractor risk management ensures that your projects remain on track and that potential disruptions are mitigated. Surety Bond Types Explore the different types of surety bonds and begin your application through the selections below. Contractor Pre-Qualification > Bid Bond Application > BMC84 > Experience the Power of Surety Bonds Bank-Guaranteed Security Enjoy the peace of mind, knowing your financial interests are backed by a reliable institution. Surety Bonds Insights Contract Bonds | A Bumpy Path to Success Contract bonds play a crucial role in the construction industry, providing financial guarantees and risk mitigation for various projects. Articles Strategies to Strengthen Bonding Capacity and Navigate Our Evolving Construction Economy In unpredictable economic times, maintaining and increasing bonding capacity becomes crucial for contractors. Articles The Creeping Retainage Vine Discover how retainage impacts cash flow in the construction industry amidst labor shortages and cost escalations. Articles VIEW MORE Surety Bonds Contact Questions? Talk to our Surety specialist!

At the heart of our mission lies a commitment to your employee’s 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. Population Health Empowering Health & Wellbeing CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM 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. Building a Healthier Future Investing in employee health is an investment in your organization's future. A healthier workforce translates to higher productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved morale. Our program design assistance focuses on tailoring wellness initiatives to align with your specific goals. Whether it's stress reduction, weight management, or encouraging a healthier lifestyle, we work hand-in-hand with you to craft a program that supports both your employees and your bottom line. Goal Identification We work closely with clients to understand their unique workforce and benefits goals, helping them establish clear, measurable objectives for improving employee health and wellbeing. Vendor Selection We leverage our extensive knowledge of the health and wellness vendor landscape to identify and recommend best-fit partners that align with each client's specific population health strategy, culture, and budget satisfaction. Incentive Design Our team excels at crafting creative, effective incentive programs that drive engagement in health initiatives by rewarding employees for taking steps to improve their wellbeing, from increasing physical activity to managing chronic conditions. Integrated Care Management Did you know that integrated care management can help employers reduce healthcare costs by up to 15% and make employees feel more supported? Integrated care ensures your employees receive the right treatment at the right time, leading to better health outcomes and significant cost savings for your organization. Request more information to learn how we can customize a program that fits your needs. Reduce Costs, Boost Engagement, and Empower Your Workforce Just like employees wouldn't navigate a new city without a map, they shouldn't navigate their benefits alone either. MyAdvocacy makes benefits easy, fast and mobile by connecting employees with benefits plan details, in-network providers, expert benefit support, insurance card information, low-cost, quality providers, and healthcare accumulators. SCHEDULE A DEMO! Empowering Health Through Education We believe education is the foundation of a healthy workforce. We offer engaging resources that empower both employers and employees to make informed decisions about their health, potentially leading to significant cost savings for your organization. DOWNLOAD FREE MONTHLY WELLNESS CALENDAR Engage360 Engage360 transforms employee feedback by delivering real-time insights to leaders when they matter most, replacing traditional annual surveys with actionable intelligence that drives immediate improvements in employee experience. LEARN MORE HealthCheck360: Your Strategic Partner in Health & Wellbeing Investing in employee wellbeing is an investment in your company's success. A healthy workforce is a happier, more productive, and less costly one. Our in-house wellness team, HealthCheck360, is just one way we can help you achieve this goal. Together, we offer a comprehensive suite of health and wellness solutions, including: Wellness Consulting Integrated Care Management Chronic Condition Management Biometric Screenings Advocacy and Navigation Lifestyle Rewards Wellness Engagement Technology Health Coaching Mental Wellbeing Financial Wellbeing Population Health Insights Drive Your Fleet Towards Better Health In the trucking industry, investing in driver health reduces healthcare costs and improves fleet performance. Articles The Costly Maze of Healthcare Benefits: Are You Losing Money and Quality Care? For today's employees, navigating the complex web of modern healthcare benefits has become a daunting challenge. While employers invest... Articles Three Things You Can Do to Improve Job Satisfaction In today's competitive job market, retaining talent is a top priority for any organization. Articles VIEW MORE Population Health Connect with our Team of Experts Today!

At Cottingham & Butler, we specialize in navigating the intricate landscape of mergers and acquisitions, ensuring a smooth transition of benefit structures while minimizing risks. Mergers & Acquisitions Streamlining Benefit Transition and Risk Assessment CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM M&A transitions shouldn't be a benefits burden. We help our clients expertly navigate the complexities, ensuring a smooth benefit structure integration and minimizing risks for a successful, stress-free transaction. Our M&A Strategy Our tailored approach involves thorough due diligence and risk evaluation, empowering you with informed choices. From optimizing cost structures to providing additional solutions and support, we stand by your side, making M&A management seamless. Informed Decisions through Due Diligence We carefully analyze benefit structures and risks, equipping you with vital insights for informed M&A decisions. Options for Transitioning Benefit Structure We present tailored options to transition benefit structures smoothly, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum employee satisfaction. Optimizing Cost Structure Our expertise allows us to identify cost-saving opportunities, negotiate effectively, and streamline procurement, improving overall financial health. Support Beyond Expectations We go the extra mile by providing support beyond benefit transition, ensuring you experience a seamless merger or acquisition and set a solid foundation for future success. Mergers and acquisitions are exciting endeavors, but don’t let benefit discrepancies disrupt your M&A timeline or negatively impact employee morale. Download our free guide to M&A benefits integration Mergers & Acquisitions Insights Merger & Acquisitions Insurance Considerations During a merger or acquisition, both parties must review and update their insurance coverages to ensure all risks are accounted for. Articles Mergers & Acquisitions: Manage the Hidden Risks Discover how to navigate hidden risks in mergers & acquisitions. Uncover essential tips for managing liabilities & protecting your company. Articles Managing Cyber Security During a Merger or Acquisition During a merger or acquisition, cybersecurity is, unfortunately, often put on the back burner. Articles VIEW MORE Mergers Connect with our Team of Experts Today!

We help clients lower their total cost of risk by challenging the status quo, solving complex business problems, and delivering creative insurance solutions. Property & Casualty Insurance Risk Solutions We help clients lower their total cost of risk by challenging the status quo, solving complex business problems and delivering creative insurance solutions. Our technical expertise and proprietary programs, combined with our commitment to client service, are the foundation of the value we bring to our clients every day. Imagine a future where risk is not just managed, but confidently understood. We’ve found that most insurance programs provide a limited view of your total risk landscape. Wouldn’t it be nice to see the whole picture? The Cottingham & Butler Risk Management Assessment is a proprietary, deep-dive analysis that explores each client’s unique risks and uncovers gaps that are often missed in the normal insurance process. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM TO LEARN MORE Client Solutions Empowering businesses with comprehensive solutions to navigate risk and achieve long-term success. Insurance & Consulting Captives & Programs Safety & Loss Prevention Claims Management Featured Expertise The Captive Advantage Tired of rising insurance costs and limited control? You're not alone. Many leading companies are turning to captive programs to: Reduce costs : Gain greater control over your risk and potentially achieve significant savings. Run a safer company : Proactive risk management programs within captives can lead to fewer claims and improved safety culture. Control over claims : Have a say in the claims process and work with a team that truly understands your risk profile and expectations. SEE IF A CAPTIVE IS RIGHT FOR YOU One Hack Away From Disaster? Cyber attacks are a constant threat, regardless of industry or size. According to IBM's 2023 Cost of a Data Breach Report, the average cost of a data breach for businesses is a staggering $2.6 million. Can your business afford these significant financial repercussions? A single cyber attack can trigger a serious domino effect, crippling your daily operations, breaking customer trust, and exposing your organization to large fines and legal repercussions. Don't wait for a disaster to strike. Secure your future, today. COMPLETE YOUR FREE CYBER RISK ASSESSMENT Client Impact Story Discover How One Client Achieved a 28% Reduction in Property Premiums, Saving $675,000 Without Sacrificing Coverage VIEW CLIENT CASE STUDY Insight & Impact Don't Slip Up: Managing Winter Weather Liability for Property Managers Snow and ice create costly liability risks for property managers. Discover essential strategies for hazard prevention, tenant responsibilities, and contractor selection. Articles Construction Insurance: What’s Softening, What Isn’t Emily Glanz breaks down the construction insurance market for CFMA Building Profits - covering rate trends, underwriting changes, and risk management strategies. Articles Small Actions, Big Impact: Preventing Workplace Falls Learn how to identify and prevent slip, trip, and fall hazards in your workplace. Practical safety tips every employee should know to protect themselves and others. Articles VIEW MORE PC Contact Us Connect with our Property & Casualty Team

Our Employee Benefits Practice acts as an extension of your business, helping to efficiently administer highly valued benefits at an affordable and sustainable cost. Employee Benefits Our Employee Benefits Practice serves as an extension of your business, helping clients efficiently administer highly valued benefits at an affordable and sustainable cost. Combining thoughtful analysis with bold strategies, we empower better business decisions and deliver an improved benefits experience. Strategic Employee Benefits Consulting Reimagining Your Benefits Strategy Improve employee satisfaction, save time & money. We craft tailored Employee Benefits Solutions that engage your workforce and optimize your bottom line. Cost Management Employee Rewards & Engagement Compliance Management Population Health & Wellbeing HR & Administrative Efficiency Mergers & Acquisitions Cost Managemet COST SAVING OPPORTUNITIES IN-DEPTH PLAN ANALYSIS IDENTIFIES GET THE FULL STORY! Cost Management Recent studies have shown that family healthcare in the U.S. is now over $31K per year and the #1 cause of bankruptcy for even those with health insurance. By meticulously analyzing your existing benefits plan, we help identify opportunities to minimize expenses while maximizing the value you receive from your program. Unlock Cost-Saving Strategies > Compliance Compliance Management With a staggering 42% of employers facing penalties for benefits compliance errors, staying on top of regulations is crucial. Our team ensures that your benefits plan remains compliant with all industry regulations by conducting thorough audits, implementing crucial updates, and offering access to a variety of tools and expert resources. Stay Ahead of the Curve > HR & Administrative Efficiency Simplify Enrollment & Enhance Perceived Value: Get Your Free, Customizable Flyer Today. HR & Administrative Efficiency Is your HR team bogged down by administrative tasks instead of focusing on strategic initiatives? Streamlining your HR processes with expert support can free up your team by more than 20% to focus on what matters most – your people By creating efficient systems and workflows, we improve employee satisfaction and drive productivity among your team. Explore Solutions > Employee Rewards & Engagement Employee Rewards & Engagement Happy employees aren't just happy, they're loyal. SHRM studies show that happy and engaged employees are 59% less likely to leave your company. We build upon wage-centric discussions by focusing on a holistic approach, enriching your employees' overall experience with your organization. By strategically aligning reward elements, we not only help you attract top talent but also improve employee retention and engagement. Boost Engagement & Attract Top Talent > BenefitWave is a revolutionary departure from conventional survey methods, utilizing decades of consulting expertise to help employers better understand and leverage their employees' benefit preferences. GET EMPLOYEE INSIGHTS WITH BENEFITWAVE Population Health & Wellbeing Clients without a condition management program spend over $13,300 per member, per year for people with a chronic health condition. Discover How Employers Are Achieving Breakthrough Results With a Condition Management Program Population Health & Wellbeing Explore how Population Health Solutions can transform your workforce into a healthier and more productive asset, all while delivering substantial cost savings. Benefit from data-driven insights, personalized wellness programs, and proactive health management to improve employee well-being and boost your organization's bottom line. Uncover the Power of Population Health Solutions > Mergers & Acquisitions Mergers & Acquisitions Allow us to facilitate a seamless transition in benefit structures through effective due diligence and risk evaluation. Our team of M&A experts shine in finding cost-effective procurement strategies to enhance your financial structures, guiding you throughout for a seamless transition and improved operational value. Learn More On How to Protect Your M&A Investment > Avoid Costly Oversights: Download Your Free M&A Due Diligence Checklist Forward by Design We’ve redefined the broker's role, departing from the conventional and embracing the future. Our approach reflects our dedication to empowering your business through year-round benefits planning, steady support, and strategic preparation. Anticipate and Adapt We anticipate changes in the benefits landscape and swiftly adapt strategies to keep you ahead of the curve. Our consultative and proactive stance ensures your benefits program evolves with the industry. Strategic Partnerships, Not Just Transactions We don't just broker deals; we build lasting partnerships. Our approach is collaborative, working closely with you to craft tailored benefit solutions that align with your goals and values. Year-Round Engagement and Support Benefits planning isn't a once-a-year event; it's an ongoing commitment. We believe in accountability and provide continuous support, proactive insights, and strategic guidance throughout the year to optimize your benefits portfolio. Holistic Benefit Ecosystem Beyond insurance, we architect a holistic benefit system. We incorporate wealth, health, and engagement elements, ensuring your employees' well-being and job satisfaction. Let’s Chat! Schedule a Call With Our Team Upcoming Events At Cottingham & Butler, we understand the importance of lifelong learning. That's why we're dedicated to providing you with insightful events throughout the year. Whether you're looking to network, stay informed about emerging trends, or refine your Employee Benefits package, there's sure to be an event fit for you. VIEW ALL EVENTS Featured Expertise Why Forward-Thinking Companies Choose Stop-Loss Captives Feeling the pressure of rising healthcare costs? Healthcare costs have risen by twice the rate of overall inflation over the past decade and are not expected to slow down. For this reason, more companies are embracing innovative solutions like Benefits Stop-Loss Captives. A stop-loss captive offers employers the control of a self-funded plan combined with the security of protection against catastrophic claims. Think of it as a financial safety net that shields you from unexpected healthcare costs. EXPLORE THE STOP-LOSS ADVANTAGE Gaining Control Over Prescription Drug Costs A recent study found that specialty drugs now account for over 50% of total pharmacy expenses, despite representing only a small fraction of prescriptions filled. This translates to significant financial strain on employers. That's where strategic carve-out programs and patient assistance programs come in. GPS, Cottingham & Butler's guided pharmacy solution, empowers employers to gain greater control over high-cost specialty drugs and connect employees with valuable assistance programs. DISCOVER HOW TO SAVE WITH GPS Cottingham & Butler 2024 Employee Benefits Trends Report As employee expectations and demographics shift, the employee benefits landscape keeps evolving. The Benefit Trends Report stands out by zeroing in on what HR teams and corporate executives prioritize: cost management and enhancing employee value. GET YOUR FREE COPY NOW! Insight & Impact 5 Best Practices for Benefits Communication 5 essential benefits communication strategies to improve employee engagement during open enrollment. Learn how to simplify messaging and drive better outcomes. Articles Deadline for Submitting Gag Clause Attestation Is Dec. 31, 2025 Learn about federal gag clause prohibition requirements and annual attestation deadlines for group health plans. Essential compliance guidance for employers with fully insured and self-insured plans. Articles IRS Releases Health FSA Limits for 2026 The IRS increased the 2026 health FSA contribution limit to $3,400 (up from $3,300) and the carryover limit to $680. Learn what employers need to know about Rev. Proc. 2025-32 compliance and employee contributions. Articles VIEW MORE Employee Benefits Connect with our Employee Benefits Team

The Cottingham & Butler Manufacturing Practice offers a dedicated focus on risk control, seamless claim services, and comprehensive coverage expertise, delivering a holistic approach to managing the inherent risks faced by today's manufacturers. Waste Management & Recycling Don't let the complex risks of the waste and recycling industry disrupt your operations. Over the last few years, the waste management and recycling insurance landscape has changed dramatically. With fewer carriers willing to take on the industry's unique risks - from increased fire incidents at MRFs to challenging auto losses - expert guidance is critical. Our team of waste and recycling insurance experts doesn't just secure comprehensive coverage - we integrate seamlessly with your risk management strategy, finding you the best program options, implementing proactive mitigation tactics, and offering robust claims advocacy. By protecting your operations, workforce, and financial health, we enable you to focus on what matters most: keeping our communities clean and moving towards a sustainable future. Comprehensive Risk Solutions Our team brings decades of experience working with businesses just like yours, from local haulers to large-scale MRFs. This specialized knowledge allows us to craft insurance solutions that address your specific needs and protect your business from every angle. In addition to our specialized coverage for waste and recycling operations, we offer all standard business insurance coverage, ensuring comprehensive protection for your business. Specialized Coverage Includes: Pollution Exposure Fleet Exposure Premises Exposure High Hazard Workers’ Compensation Exposure Medical Waste Exposure In an industry where hazards lurk around every corner, a generic risk management approach simply won't cut it. Our proprietary Risk Management Assessment (RMA) digs deep into the specifics of your waste and recycling operation. We analyze your exposures, identify coverage gaps, and evaluate your safety protocols with an expert eye. The result? A comprehensive risk management plan that's custom-built for the unique challenges of your business. LEARN MORE Employee Rewards & Engagement Safety Solutions Did you know that the waste and recycling industry has one of the highest rates of workplace injuries and fatalities? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, waste collection workers have an injury rate 5.5 times higher than the national average for all industries. Our hands-on safety services are designed specifically for the waste and recycling workforce, promoting a culture of safety from the route to the recycling facility. We offer industry-specific training, onsite risk control, and more to help prevent accidents, reduce injuries, and keep your team safe and productive. Give your team the safety support they deserve. Learn more > Take the first step towards knowledge and awareness using our SMART Diagnostic Programs. Contact us today to get started. CONTACT OUR TEAM TO GET STARTED! Did you know the waste and recycling industry faces an average turnover rate of 22%, nearly double the national average across all sectors? But here's the good news: a well-crafted employee benefits program can make a significant difference. Studies show that companies offering comprehensive benefits packages experience a 138% increase in job applications and a 26% rise in employee retention. Our expert benefits consultants specialize in addressing the unique challenges of the waste and recycling workforce, collaborating with you to design a tailored benefits package that stands out. From competitive health plans to industry-specific perks, we'll help you create a program that your employees and your bottom line will appreciate. BUILD A BENEFITS PROGRAM THAT YOUR TEAM WILL LOVE! "Cottingham & Butler’s deep understanding of the waste and recycling industry sets them apart. From their tailored insurance solutions to their hands-on safety training, they've helped us mitigate risks and optimize operations across our business. With Cottingham & Butler, we know we have a partner who truly understands our needs." Featured Expertise Empower Your Waste & Recycling Business The waste and recycling industry presents distinct challenges, with safety incidents averaging $46,000 per occurrence (SWANA) and annual operational risks costing up to $5.3 million (EREF). Imagine a future where your operational costs are streamlined, your workforce thrives in a safe environment, your contracts offer ironclad protection, and your cybersecurity defenses ward off threats effectively. This future is within your grasp, and it starts by embracing knowledge and awareness through our SMART Diagnostic Programs. CONTACT US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Why Captive Insurance is the New Competitive Edge In today's fiercely competitive world, every edge matters. But are you overlooking a hidden opportunity to reduce costs, gain control, and unlock the true potential of your insurance? Say hello to Captive Insurance - the game-changing risk management strategy that’s no longer reserved for industry giants. It's rapidly becoming the secret weapon for forward-thinking manufacturers like you. Explore captive insurance benefits with our Cottingham & Butler team of experts. LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR TAILORED CAPTIVE SOLUTIONS Waste & Recycling Insight & Impact OSHA's New Walkaround Rule – Effective May 31, 2024 OSHA announced its final rule that clarifies employees’ rights to authorize a representative to accompany an OSHA compliance officer. Articles How to Survive an OSHA Inspection Learn how to survive an OSHA inspection and protect your operation from citations and fines. Articles Understanding Your Options: Standard Market, Self-Insurance, and Captive Insurance Programs Discover the advantages of Standard Market, Self-Insurance, and Captive Insurance programs. Articles VIEW MORE Contact Connect with a Waste & Recycling Expert!

Manufacturing Managing a "Hard" Insurance Market Up Published on Written by: Page View May 16, 2023 John Link In the 1996 movie classic, “Twister,” Dusty runs out of the RV at the drive-in movie theater and yells to Bill, “It’s coming! It’s coming straight for us!” and Bill replies with an apprehensive and fearful look at the ominous, night sky, “It’s already here.” That scene reminds me of the property insurance world and the hard market. The “hard market” isn’t coming—it’s already here! For those of you new to this terminology, a “hard” insurance market represents a period of rising rates, less capacity, and unfavorable terms mandated by insurance companies to the insurance buyer. Our team at Cottingham & Butler has been sounding the bell about the hard market, and dealing with a challenging property renewal is less about “if” than “when.” Ten years ago, a dozen admitted insurance carriers would insure property insurance for foundries—today there are less than five. This article is designed around what you can do to be prepared to manage upcoming insurance renewals. Let’s start with a brief overview of the current insurance market. Property insurance is no longer (and hasn’t been for a while) a regional issue. In today’s climate, what happens in Florida or California, affects us in the Midwest and vice versa. We’ve dealt with wildfires, windstorms, snowstorms, hurricanes, and flooding. These natural catastrophes have caused many billions of dollars in claims costs to insurers. In 2022, natural disaster damages were over $115 billion and that follows $121 billion in 2021. Along with those disasters, the industry still manages the additional losses from less catastrophic but just as costly claims ranging from fires and explosions to broken water pipes. View the column in Modern Casting's digital edition. In response, insurance carriers and their insurance providers (known as reinsurance carriers) are increasing their rates, diminishing their appetite for risk, offering less favorable terms, and heightening underwriting scrutiny. In December 2022, Ernst & Young Global predicted reinsurance rates to rise 50% during the January 2023 renewals, setting the stage for further increases throughout 2023. Another factor impacting insurance costs is the valuation of assets and inflation. The material costs of construction (e.g., concrete, drywall, pvc pipes, etc.) are up as much as 53% year-over-year. Lumber cost is the one category that saw a reduction during 2022. With that in consideration, many property valuations on insurance schedules are likely undervalued versus their true cost. The cost to rebuild your facility is significantly higher than it was three or four years ago. When was the last time you had a formal appraisal of the cost to replace your building? Likely you haven’t and therefore insurance carriers are scrutinizing the cost per square foot much closer. One final factor for the foundry industry is reputation. Google search “foundry fires” and “foundry accidents” and look at just the first results page. This is what underwriters and insurance company analysts see and use to formulate their opinions about foundries. Despite the fact that every day, 1,750 foundries are operating safely, historical events influence and cast doubt on the viability of a foundry as a good underwriting risk. These factors create the perfect storm for insurance companies to dictate purchasing terms in what we collectively call a “hard” market. In some cases, insurance companies are simply walking away from insuring what they consider “riskier” businesses. Metalcasting is one category that is considered high risk and unfavorable for underwriting. From the graph in Figure 1, the property market is seeing continued upward pressure for the last six years with a substantial spike during the latter part of 2022. The first quarter of 2023 rate increases so far have continued their upward trend. With that said, you can survive the hard market. It takes additional work and effort on your part and the part of your insurance broker, however. Here are some strategies on what we can collectively do to get through these challenging conditions:   1. Strategize with your broker and do it early! The standard approach taken by insurance brokers for the renewal process is to make submissions 90 days in advance of the expiration date with the likelihood of having the renewal finalized two weeks before your policies expire. That process works in a soft market but in the market we are in today, that process will fail. Instead, have your planning meeting five months in advance of the expiration date, update all underwriting materials, and make sure submissions go out early. Every insurance company is going to want loss control, every insurance company is going to question the values, and every insurance company is going to have to go to their reinsurance markets to build limits for your business. This takes time so use it to your advantage.   2. Decide on your risk tolerance. What deductibles can you live with? Does every structure need to be insured? Does the program need to be on replacement cost or would actual cash value suffice? These are questions many businesses are considering in order to lower their insurance premiums.  3. Update your values. When was the last time you hired an appraisal company to provide a true estimate on the replacement cost value of your buildings and equipment? When I ask that question, the answer is typically “It’s been years” or “Never.” Insurance companies are going to demand the values of your buildings be based on either a third-party valuation or another metric for you to justify why your 50,000-sq.-ft. facility is insured for $2.5 million when their data suggests it should be valued at $6 million. Higher values drive more premium, which insurance companies want; therefore, take control and tell them what your values are. If you don’t, they will dictate those terms to you, which could cost you tens of thousands of dollars.   4. Satisfy the loss control recommendations. This may be the most critical area for your team to review and the one area you can directly control. Remember when the loss control person from the insurance company visited your facility and then provided you a list of “recommendations” for improvements? You likely “filed” this and moved on with your day. No more! If those recommendations (let’s call them mandates) are not addressed or completed to the insurer’s satisfaction, there is a high likelihood that insurance carrier will non-renew your insurance policies.Key areas to review are: Fire protection: We all know we can’t have sprinkler systems over the pour floor, but insurance carriers will expect sprinkler systems everywhere else, especially your pattern and mold shops and storage areas. Hot work permit systems: I’ve seen this on almost every inspection report and the requirement to have a hot work scope of work and procedures written out in detail. Dust collection: More and more carriers will want to see updated dust collections systems with spark detection and fire suppression as part of the system. Flammables: Everything from 275-gallon solvent totes to 1 gallon paint cans need to be stored properly and away from heat and flame. I had one insurance carrier dictate they would only offer a quote if the foundry would build a separate building with sprinklers for the foundry to store all their placard flammable materials.   5. Be thorough in your description of operations. Do your insurance underwriters actually know who you are and what you do and what makes your business different from all the other metalcasters they get submissions on? Having a narrative or a “description of operations” on your business is an often overlooked part of the insurance marketing process, but if you don’t have one, then you are relying on an application and the Google search the underwriter will review to be the narrative. Again, take control and get your story told the way you want it told.   6. Know your insurance policies. I know you are working with your broker to be your advisor, but I would suggest educating yourself on what is in your insurance policy and what you are actually paying premium for. How is the business interruption and extra expense calculated? Is your policy a blanket or scheduled? What are the sub-limits? The key is to be an educated consumer so you can negotiate your options effectively.  7. Meet with underwriters directly (if this makes sense). This goes hand in hand with the description of operations discussion in that the underwriters need to know who you are and your business. Do you know many of the underwriters I speak with have never been in a foundry? Yet, we expect them to write the insurance for you! Work on getting your underwriter to come to your facility so they can see firsthand your operations and what you are doing to make your operations best in class. If you don’t feel your facility is ready for an underwriter visit, consult with your broker to uncover the steps to be prepared for this visit. The hard market is not going away anytime soon. In this market the insurance companies control who they will sell to and the terms of the sale. As buyers of insurance, the more educated we can be about the seller’s interests the better we can position ourselves for the best terms. Therefore, take charge of what you can control: Update the valuation of your assets. Conduct and document safety, site management, and basic housekeeping. Document and communicate facility upgrades and improvements. Create a clear description of operations. Partner with your insurance broker/agent for a renewal marketing plan. There are many things we cannot control, such as the facultative reinsurance market or if the insurance company “suits” decide they are pulling out of writing more foundries. However, focusing on what we can control and taking action will drive results. An adage around our firm is, “We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.” As the storm continues to churn and winds blow, let’s adjust the sails and find calmer seas. JOHN LINK, CPCU,CIC Vice President, Risk Management 563.590.0428 jlink@cottinghambutler.com View All Posts TAGS: Article Manufacturing Metalcasting Upcoming Events WEBINAR December 18, 2025 Year-in-Review & Looking Ahead Throughout 2025, HR and employee benefits professionals have continued to navigate an evolving compliance landscape for health and welfare benefit plans. As the year draws to a close, this session will highlight the most significant compliance developments and regulatory changes that shaped 2025 and what they mean for your organization. We’ll also look ahead to 2026, previewing upcoming rules, deadlines, and trends that could impact your benefit strategies in the year to come. Whether you're wrapping up year-end compliance or planning for what’s next, this webinar will help you stay informed and prepared. Examples will be provided to help employers manage different types of common employee positions. Register Now! Register Now! WEBINAR November 20, 2025 HRA Types & Comparisons With many different permitted types of Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), employers have a wide array of options to provide tax-favored reimbursement for qualifying medical expenses to employees and their family members. But each HRA type has its own compliance requirements, eligibility rules, and strategic use cases. This month’s webinar will discuss many different HRA types, including HRAs integrated with group medical plans, excepted benefit HRAs, qualified small employer HRAs, individual coverage HRAs, and retiree-only HRAs. We’ll explore how each type works, when it might be a good fit, and what employers need to know to stay compliant. Register Now! Register Now! MICRO-STRATEGY SESSION December 2, 2025 The Care Traffic Controller: Directing Patients to High-Value, Low-Cost Healthcare In this 15-minute webinar, we’ll explore how care navigation can be a powerful tool for guiding patients toward high-value, lower-cost providers—without compromising quality. You’ll learn how to build a framework that proactively steers care decisions, leverages second opinions when they matter most, and breaks away from the conventional referral model to create a more strategic, cost-effective healthcare experience. Learn More! Learn More! View All Events Connect with a C&B Representative Today!

Employee Benefits Providing a Better Open Enrollment Solution Up Published on Written by: Page View December 28, 2022 Cottingham & Butler A West Virginia manufacturing company wanted to communicate more effectively and implement a holistic benefits package to compete with other surrounding employers. Cottingham & Butler’s employee benefits team got to work by utilizing our unique benchmarking tool to analyze the data and bring various plan options to best fit their employees. Following the employer’s decisions to ensure their employees were appropriately covered by the non-medical lines of coverage, the next most important component was communicating the wonderful enhancements and allowing employees to use technology to enroll versus the outdated paper enrollment forms. They used Cottingham & Butler’s proprietary enrollment text system called BETSY . Our Results Paid Life & Disability Review We reviewed the company’s paid life insurance and disability to restructure the plan and adequately insure employees. This led to a $9M increase in life insurance protection and a weekly income protection increase of $30k. Open Enrollment Solutions After we implemented our easy-to-use and efficient open enrollment solution, BETSY, we were able to move away from the dated paper enrollment process, which allows employees the ability to enroll anywhere at any time and creates administrative ease for HR staff. Enhanced Benefit Plan Communications By offering a wide variety of communication mediums in phased approaches, there was a 100% completion rate and over 50% enrollment in all coverages. Enrollment Satisfaction & Utilization Employees reported back appreciating the upgrades to the communications and benefit plan, according to the employee feedback survey. View All Posts TAGS: Case Study Employee Benefits Employee Rewards & Engagement HR Efficiency Upcoming Events WEBINAR December 18, 2025 Year-in-Review & Looking Ahead Throughout 2025, HR and employee benefits professionals have continued to navigate an evolving compliance landscape for health and welfare benefit plans. As the year draws to a close, this session will highlight the most significant compliance developments and regulatory changes that shaped 2025 and what they mean for your organization. We’ll also look ahead to 2026, previewing upcoming rules, deadlines, and trends that could impact your benefit strategies in the year to come. Whether you're wrapping up year-end compliance or planning for what’s next, this webinar will help you stay informed and prepared. Examples will be provided to help employers manage different types of common employee positions. Register Now! Register Now! WEBINAR November 20, 2025 HRA Types & Comparisons With many different permitted types of Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), employers have a wide array of options to provide tax-favored reimbursement for qualifying medical expenses to employees and their family members. But each HRA type has its own compliance requirements, eligibility rules, and strategic use cases. This month’s webinar will discuss many different HRA types, including HRAs integrated with group medical plans, excepted benefit HRAs, qualified small employer HRAs, individual coverage HRAs, and retiree-only HRAs. We’ll explore how each type works, when it might be a good fit, and what employers need to know to stay compliant. Register Now! Register Now! MICRO-STRATEGY SESSION December 2, 2025 The Care Traffic Controller: Directing Patients to High-Value, Low-Cost Healthcare In this 15-minute webinar, we’ll explore how care navigation can be a powerful tool for guiding patients toward high-value, lower-cost providers—without compromising quality. You’ll learn how to build a framework that proactively steers care decisions, leverages second opinions when they matter most, and breaks away from the conventional referral model to create a more strategic, cost-effective healthcare experience. Learn More! Learn More! View All Events Connect with a C&B Representative Today!

Employee Benefits A 33% Decrease to Health Insurance Spend in 3 Years Up Published on Written by: Page View April 15, 2022 Cottingham & Butler A county in northeastern Wisconsin was facing a 6% increase in their health insurance costs. Cottingham & Butler's public sector team was invited to conduct our 3C's analysis, where we benchmark coverage, cost, and consumption compared to peer counties and municipalities in the area. This analysis leads to identifying areas for opportunity and allows us to make targeted quantifiable recommendations. Pharmacy Contract Review We renegotiated the pharmacy benefit manager contract, moving from a 3-year to a 1-year contract. We also introduced step-therapy and coupon tracking on medications that led to $115k in savings. Tenure-Based Opt Out We implemented a $5,000 cash opt-out based on tenure. This was an added benefit offered to employees with over 20 years of service to the County that led to over $84k in savings. High-Performance Network We recommended that the County introduce a tiered high-performance network, incenting members (but not mandating them) to use high-quality, low-cost providers leading to over $280k in savings. View All Posts TAGS: Case Study Employee Benefits Cost Management Upcoming Events WEBINAR December 18, 2025 Year-in-Review & Looking Ahead Throughout 2025, HR and employee benefits professionals have continued to navigate an evolving compliance landscape for health and welfare benefit plans. As the year draws to a close, this session will highlight the most significant compliance developments and regulatory changes that shaped 2025 and what they mean for your organization. We’ll also look ahead to 2026, previewing upcoming rules, deadlines, and trends that could impact your benefit strategies in the year to come. Whether you're wrapping up year-end compliance or planning for what’s next, this webinar will help you stay informed and prepared. Examples will be provided to help employers manage different types of common employee positions. Register Now! Register Now! WEBINAR November 20, 2025 HRA Types & Comparisons With many different permitted types of Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), employers have a wide array of options to provide tax-favored reimbursement for qualifying medical expenses to employees and their family members. But each HRA type has its own compliance requirements, eligibility rules, and strategic use cases. This month’s webinar will discuss many different HRA types, including HRAs integrated with group medical plans, excepted benefit HRAs, qualified small employer HRAs, individual coverage HRAs, and retiree-only HRAs. We’ll explore how each type works, when it might be a good fit, and what employers need to know to stay compliant. Register Now! Register Now! MICRO-STRATEGY SESSION December 2, 2025 The Care Traffic Controller: Directing Patients to High-Value, Low-Cost Healthcare In this 15-minute webinar, we’ll explore how care navigation can be a powerful tool for guiding patients toward high-value, lower-cost providers—without compromising quality. You’ll learn how to build a framework that proactively steers care decisions, leverages second opinions when they matter most, and breaks away from the conventional referral model to create a more strategic, cost-effective healthcare experience. Learn More! Learn More! View All Events Connect with a C&B Representative Today!

Employee Benefits HR’s Role in Mergers and Acquisitions Up Published on Written by: Page View March 14, 2023 Cottingham & Butler Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have become an increasingly common business strategy. M&A transactions increased from $3.8 trillion in 2020 to $5.1 trillion in 2021, according to professional services network KPMG. Despite the increase in M&A activity, approximately 70% to 90% of M&A transactions fail to reach their expected strategic and financial aims, according to research from the Harvard Business Review. Often, M&A transactions can struggle to meet their intended aims due to people-related factors, such as mismatched organizational cultures and management styles, lack of communication and trust, loss of key talent, and ambiguous long-term goals. HR professionals can play a pivotal role in preventing these types of failures and ensuring a smooth transition for employees on both sides of an M&A transaction. Understanding HR’s role in M&A activity can be vital to ensuring a successful transaction. This article provides an overview of HR’s role in M&A activity before, during, and after the transaction. It’s not intended to be a comprehensive guide but explores general issues for HR professionals to consider. Understanding HR’s M&A Role The terms "mergers" and "acquisitions" are often used interchangeably, but they have important differences. Mergers combine two separate organizations into a single, new entity. However, with acquisitions, one organization takes over another outright and establishes itself as the new owner. In most cases, an acquisition is technically a merger, as the new entity will merge with an asset of the organization. Regardless, the common use of these terms can create some differences in how the activity might impact a workforce and HR’s role. Traditionally, most have viewed HR’s role in M&A deals as limited to advising management or deal-makers on HR-related issues, such as talent decisions and integrating HR practices. However, M&A deals create a myriad of people issues that must be resolved quickly and effectively. This is where HR professionals can have the greatest impact on M&A transactions. Leading up to and immediately following M&A transactions, employees start to consider their personal situation. If employees feel uncertain about their place in the new organization, it’s more likely they’ll look for new opportunities. Recruiters know this and will target key talent immediately following an M&A deal announcement. The loss of key talent can diminish the overall value of any M&A transaction. How HR operates before, during, and after M&A transactions is critical, especially when communicating with employees. Before the Transaction Download our Due Diligence Checklist HR’s primary role before any M&A transaction is conducting due diligence. During a deal, HR professionals provide critical information to assist in evaluating the transaction and assessing potential risks and liabilities. HR evaluates the following aspects of a target organization: Talent Culture Employee benefits plans Compensation programs Employment contracts and policies Potential liabilities Reviewing retirement benefits can be particularly important before an M&A transaction to assess whether a target organization’s retirement plans are overfunded, underfunded, or vested improperly. HR usually works closely with legal teams to ensure organizations comply with federal, state, and local laws. Failing to conduct careful due diligence can result in organizations assuming significant liabilities during M&A transactions. HR professionals from both organizations need to determine whether the entities’ organizational cultures are compatible. This can include analyzing each organization’s growth and turnover rates, management styles, employee attitudes regarding embracing a new culture, and benefits programs. This can help to ensure a smooth transition and cultural integration of the organizations. For organizations being acquired, HR professionals typically partner with the other organization’s HR team to resolve potential issues and provide information and data related to due diligence. This may require HR professionals to review and comply with nondisclosure agreements, as much of this information is considered confidential. They also support employees impacted by the transaction and ease their concerns and doubts. Doing so can increase employee confidence in the deal and help employees to remain productive during the transition process. During the Transaction HR professionals play a vital role during an M&A transaction as they are typically responsible for completing various significant tasks. Due to the breadth of involvement, HR can help define the blueprint of all aspects of the new organization and assess the deal’s impact on employees. This section outlines some of HR’s key responsibilities during a transaction. Communicating with Employees Employee communication is a critical HR function during M&A transactions. How HR shares information with employees about the transaction, especially those most affected, can greatly impact the deal’s success. When done effectively, employee communication can improve the odds that the deal will be successful. Not only can communication provide employees with timelines and updates about the integration, but it can also provide employees with a shared vision of the new organization and help win employees over. M&A transactions can be difficult for employees, and some are likely to leave. HR professionals can reach out to employees and conduct interviews to help employees feel heard and valued. HR should be honest with employees about what’s happening, what’s planned and when key decisions will be made. By treating individuals whom the M&A deal may negatively impact with respect, HR can send a strong message to the remaining employees about how the new organization deals with and prioritizes employees. Integrating Cultures M&A transactions often can lead to a culture clash. Since culture issues can sink the success of any M&A deal, blending culture is a top HR priority. HR professionals must integrate and redefine the new organization’s culture and values. They can do this by establishing a shared organizational vision, mission and strategy. Checking in with acquired employees can provide valuable insights as organizations attempt to align cultures. Ensuring Legal Compliance Ensuring that organizations comply with applicable laws often falls on HR’s shoulders. Employees are often released as a result of M&A activity. Each organization’s HR professionals must ensure they follow all applicable laws and notification requirements when reducing staff. M&A transactions may result in organizations being forced to comply with new laws. For instance, if an M&A deal results in an organization acquiring non-exempt employees, it must comply with legal obligations for these new employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Additionally, to protect employees from losing legal protections, some regulations require employers to comply with laws even if they do not satisfy the legal requirements to be considered covered employers. For example, suppose a new organization is a successor in interest. In that case, employees from the previous organization cannot be deprived of their rights under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) even if the new organization does not meet the FMLA’s covered employer requirements. M&A transactions are often legally complex, and this article only provides a few examples of the potential legal issues organizations must consider. Due to the complex nature of this activity, employers are encouraged to seek legal counsel to discuss any specific issues and concerns. Making Technology and Outsourcing Decisions HR may need to decide which systems or technology the new organization will keep, replace or eliminate. It may also need to consider which organizational processes or functions will be outsourced. While this may seem straightforward, it requires HR professionals to painstakingly assess the technology and systems of all organizations involved in an M&A transaction. Additionally, HR must act quickly to integrate technology and systems to avoid disrupting the new organization’s operations. After the Transaction Once an M&A transaction is completed, HR plays a key role in integrating the organizations. This can be particularly challenging and labor-intensive. HR professionals typically undertake the following tasks: Create new policies. After an M&A event, HR must create or merge employment policies, rules and guidelines to establish workplace governance and set employee expectations for the new organization. This may include creating attendance, paid time off, sick leave, drug testing, anti-discrimination and anti-retaliation policies. Manage talent. HR plays a critical role in determining which employees will stay, are replaced or are eliminated after an M&A event. This includes identifying employees that may be needed to ensure a smooth transition but aren’t critical to the long-term success of the new organization. HR professionals typically spend a great deal of time evaluating employees since most M&A transactions expect to increase organizational efficiency by eliminating redundant roles. HR assesses employee knowledge, skills and capabilities by interviewing and potentially testing employees. Once completed, HR takes steps to re-recruit and place employees. HR must also eliminate unnecessary positions by terminating individuals, offering early retirement or leaving roles vacant. Retain key talent. To ensure a successful M&A transaction, organizations need to retain key employees. This often means reaching out directly to these employees to discuss their career goals and address concerns generated by the M&A deal. HR needs to ensure there’s a place for key talent in the new organization and adequate career growth opportunities for them. Develop compensation strategies. HR creates cohesive compensation structures for the new organization, including executive compensation strategies. Typically, this requires HR professionals to unify the compensation structures and incentives of multiple organizations. Any new compensation structure must be clearly and effectively communicated to employees. Create employee benefits programs. Similar to creating compensation structures, HR may need to fit existing employee benefits programs into a unified plan for the new organization. If that’s not possible, HR professionals may need to establish new benefits programs for the new organization, which can be complicated and time-consuming. Again, communicating any new benefits programs to employees is critical. HR is essential to the success of any M&A transaction. By ensuring HR professionals have the necessary skills and resources to steer the integration effectively, organizations can help ensure their M&A deals reach their expected strategic and financial aims. To learn more, contact Cottingham & Butler's M&A team today. The above insights are not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. View All Posts TAGS: Article Employee Benefits Mergers & Acquisitions Upcoming Events WEBINAR December 18, 2025 Year-in-Review & Looking Ahead Throughout 2025, HR and employee benefits professionals have continued to navigate an evolving compliance landscape for health and welfare benefit plans. As the year draws to a close, this session will highlight the most significant compliance developments and regulatory changes that shaped 2025 and what they mean for your organization. We’ll also look ahead to 2026, previewing upcoming rules, deadlines, and trends that could impact your benefit strategies in the year to come. Whether you're wrapping up year-end compliance or planning for what’s next, this webinar will help you stay informed and prepared. Examples will be provided to help employers manage different types of common employee positions. Register Now! Register Now! WEBINAR November 20, 2025 HRA Types & Comparisons With many different permitted types of Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), employers have a wide array of options to provide tax-favored reimbursement for qualifying medical expenses to employees and their family members. But each HRA type has its own compliance requirements, eligibility rules, and strategic use cases. This month’s webinar will discuss many different HRA types, including HRAs integrated with group medical plans, excepted benefit HRAs, qualified small employer HRAs, individual coverage HRAs, and retiree-only HRAs. We’ll explore how each type works, when it might be a good fit, and what employers need to know to stay compliant. Register Now! Register Now! MICRO-STRATEGY SESSION December 2, 2025 The Care Traffic Controller: Directing Patients to High-Value, Low-Cost Healthcare In this 15-minute webinar, we’ll explore how care navigation can be a powerful tool for guiding patients toward high-value, lower-cost providers—without compromising quality. You’ll learn how to build a framework that proactively steers care decisions, leverages second opinions when they matter most, and breaks away from the conventional referral model to create a more strategic, cost-effective healthcare experience. Learn More! Learn More! View All Events Connect with a C&B Representative Today!

Manufacturing Leveraged best practices and good loss experience to return $80,000 year after year Up Published on Written by: Page View April 25, 2023 Cottingham & Butler A best-in-class processing equipment manufacturer had been seeing a decrease in their loss experience, yet they were not seeing a decrease in how much they were paying for insurance. They were curious to learn if there was a way to incentivize their increased focus on safety and best practices. Their current program was "off the shelf" and was not designed to meet their specific needs. After engaging with Cottingham & Butler's Risk Management Assessment (RMA) , they quickly learned that there was not only a better way to buy insurance, but that there were significant coverage deficiencies in their program. The company recognized the value of a customized loss-sensitive program, as well as having a broker partner who would advocate on their behalf for claims. Program Design Delivered a loss-sensitive program option, Horizon, that would allow the company to receive up to 50% of their premium back for good loss years. Identified 3 carriers that had never seen the account before, and had an interest in the business. Coverage Identified 20 coverage deficiencies in their existing program. Significant deficiencies include: Multiple sub-limits were inadequate compared to their operations. The policy was designed for Architect and Engineering Professionals, NOT for Manufacturers. Multiple exclusions related to the core business operations of the company were present. No flood/earthquake coverage in a high-risk area. Contractual Risk Transfer Highlighted areas of concern and how their current risk transfer methods were inadequate for their industry and line of work. Cottingham & Butler put together recommendations and corrected critical mistakes in policy language Stability After joining Horizon, the company experienced a large loss in its first year of implementation. Even after the loss, their spend was similar. By paying in guaranteed cost, they avoided the increases they would have seen in the standard market. Since then, the company has received $80,000+ each year for their good loss experience. Claims Advocacy While the company had great loss experience, they had not previously received any claims reviews or advocacy services. After being made aware of the impacts of delayed reporting, their claims reporting processes were improved and consistent claim reviews were scheduled with the team. View All Posts TAGS: Case Study Manufacturing Claims Management Loss Control & Prevention Upcoming Events WEBINAR December 18, 2025 Year-in-Review & Looking Ahead Throughout 2025, HR and employee benefits professionals have continued to navigate an evolving compliance landscape for health and welfare benefit plans. As the year draws to a close, this session will highlight the most significant compliance developments and regulatory changes that shaped 2025 and what they mean for your organization. We’ll also look ahead to 2026, previewing upcoming rules, deadlines, and trends that could impact your benefit strategies in the year to come. Whether you're wrapping up year-end compliance or planning for what’s next, this webinar will help you stay informed and prepared. Examples will be provided to help employers manage different types of common employee positions. Register Now! Register Now! WEBINAR November 20, 2025 HRA Types & Comparisons With many different permitted types of Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), employers have a wide array of options to provide tax-favored reimbursement for qualifying medical expenses to employees and their family members. But each HRA type has its own compliance requirements, eligibility rules, and strategic use cases. This month’s webinar will discuss many different HRA types, including HRAs integrated with group medical plans, excepted benefit HRAs, qualified small employer HRAs, individual coverage HRAs, and retiree-only HRAs. We’ll explore how each type works, when it might be a good fit, and what employers need to know to stay compliant. Register Now! Register Now! MICRO-STRATEGY SESSION December 2, 2025 The Care Traffic Controller: Directing Patients to High-Value, Low-Cost Healthcare In this 15-minute webinar, we’ll explore how care navigation can be a powerful tool for guiding patients toward high-value, lower-cost providers—without compromising quality. You’ll learn how to build a framework that proactively steers care decisions, leverages second opinions when they matter most, and breaks away from the conventional referral model to create a more strategic, cost-effective healthcare experience. Learn More! Learn More! View All Events Connect with a C&B Representative Today!