Chief Financial Officers are facing another challenging year of managing risk and insurance costs. Here are some things to keep an eye on in our current market.
PROPERTY INSURANCE – BE PREPARED TO PAY MORE
The insurance market was expected to firm up in 2019, but the dramatic shift in some areas of California surprised even those expecting rates to rise.
The property insurance market has been buffeted over the past few years by record losses from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, as well as the California wildfires. Another rough California wildfire season could pressure carriers to raise rates even further next year.
Impact
A firming market typically means higher premiums, tighter underwriting, and less competition for your business. Almost in unison, carriers have decided to recoup the recent catastrophic losses with rate increases. In some instances, those increases have been dramatic. Businesses with operations in earthquake and flood zones are likely to see the biggest rate hikes. Organizations with dated facilities could also see big premium increases. Now is a good time to upgrade older properties/assets or to consider disposing of them to minimize risk.
AUTO COVERAGE – RATES ALSO GOING UP
Like the property market, the auto insurance market will continue to harden. Due to a rapid increase in claim frequency due to distracted driving and the increased cost to repair vehicles, carriers are reluctant to take on more auto liability risk. Their unwillingness to do so points to the softening profitability of their auto portfolios.
Impact
CFOs that manage fleets will need to think creatively to find the best rates and coverage. Fewer insurers are willing to cover large fleets. At the same time, insurers are scrutinizing the hiring procedures and driver safety programs of clients. Companies with the best safety records are not being spared the double-digit rate increases others are experiencing.
DIRECTORS & OFFICERS LIABILITY – THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES
The current environment is the most challenging D&O insurance market since the dot.com bust. Securities class-action lawsuits have exposed carriers to significant new liability. As a result, the outlook for D&O insurance isn’t likely to improve any time soon.
Impact
Both public and private companies need to be more diligent than ever. The 2018 Cyan decision permits suits to be filed against companies in both federal and state court for the same event. Insurance companies are very concerned about the ongoing and future cost of these claims.
IPO-bound companies seeking D&O insurance should also expect to pay three to five times more for coverage compared to just 24 months ago. Rates will continue to go up.
WHAT TO DO IN A MARKET LIKE THIS?
In these market conditions, CFOs will need to carefully evaluate the proper level of necessary coverage and potentially make difficult decisions. To manage cost and risk upon renewal, companies should consider doing the following:
• Start the renewal process early and engage the entire C-Suite. Â
• Differentiate your company during the renewal process. Make sure you know how your broker is positioning your company.
• Evaluate the amount of insurance to be purchased in advance by understanding your risk profile and your peer group benchmarking.
• Be proactive about risk mitigation initiatives, which will help control rate increases.
• Develop a plan to manage loss control visits when increasingly cautious carriers come to your facilities.
• Don’t rely on past performance and relationships for renewal success. Underwriters have specific criteria and may not have room to negotiate. Be open to searching global markets for coverage.
• Explore the use of alternative markets, such as increased retentions and captives.
• Most importantly, work with a strategic business insurance broker like Marsh & McLennan Agency, who can secure coverage for all types of risk and has the global reach and resources to provide the most competitive rates and comprehensive advice.
Trindl Reeves is Chief Sales Officer, Marsh & McLennan Agency, West Region. She can be reached at (858) 587-7185, or via
[email protected].
Marsh McLennan Agency is a full-service business insurance and employee benefits brokerage. Marsh McLennan Agency helps organizations identify risk and opportunities, secure coverage from best-of-breed providers, and create risk management and employee benefits programs that power your strategic objectives. Learn more at MMA-West.com.
