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December 21, 2023 – Builders Mutual Insurance Company (“Builders Mutual” or “We”) discovered an incident that may have impacted the privacy of information related to certain clients, claimants and current or former employees. As we continue to investigate and work toward notifying impacted individuals directly, we are providing information about the event, our response, and steps potentially impacted individuals can take to better protect against the possible misuse of their information should they feel it is appropriate to do so.

What Happened? On December 14, 2022, Builders Mutual discovered suspicious activity on certain computer systems. We immediately launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party specialists. Our investigation determined there was unauthorized access to our network beginning on December 14, 2022, and certain files were copied on December 15, 2022. We undertook a comprehensive review of the files to determine whether these files contained any sensitive information. This review was completed on August 1, 2023, but only a small percentage of potentially impacted individuals had addresses listed in the relevant files. As such, Builders Mutual began a multi-pronged approach to attempt to identify address information for the remaining potentially affected individuals.

On September 12, 2023, Builders Mutual began the notification process by engaging an additional third-party notice vendor specialized in communications and credit monitoring services for the individuals who were owed notice and Builders Mutual had an address. On September 29, 2023, Builders Mutual began providing written notification to the potentially impacted individuals, however, ultimately Builders Mutual was unable to determine address information for every affected individual.

What Information was Affected? The type of potentially impacted information differs from person to person but includes name and one or more of date of birth, Social Security number, financial account information, with access code, driver’s license number, state or federal-issued identification number, employee identification number, workers’ compensation information, full-access credentials, medical information, and health insurance information.

How Will Individuals Know If They Are Affected By This Incident? Builders Mutual mailed notice letters to individuals whose protected information was contained in the data at issue and for whom they have a valid mailing address. Individuals who have not received a notice letter but believe their information may be at risk may call the dedicated assistance line we established at 844-264-3728 toll-free Monday through Friday from 8 AM – 10 PM Central, or Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM – 7 PM Central (excluding major U.S. Holidays).

What We are Doing. We take this event and the security of your information very seriously. Upon learning of this event, we immediately took steps to secure our network and we are working to implement additional administrative and technical safeguards to further secure the information in our care. Notice was also provided to federal law enforcement and applicable state regulatory agencies.

What Affected Individuals Can Do. Potentially affected individuals are encouraged to remain vigilant against incidents of identity theft by reviewing their account statements and explanation of benefits for unusual activity. Additional information can be found below in the Steps You Can Take to Help Protect Your Information below and in the notification letters that will be sent to affected individuals.

For More Information. We understand you may have questions not addressed in this notice. To ensure your questions are answered in a timely manner, please call the dedicated assistance line we established at 844-264-3728 toll-free Monday through Friday from 8 AM – 10 PM Central, or Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM – 7 PM Central (excluding major U.S. Holidays).

Steps You Can Take to Help Protect Your Information

Monitor your credit reports for suspicious or unauthorized activity. Under U.S. law, a consumer is entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. To order your free credit report, visit www.annualcreditreport.com or call, toll-free, 1-877-322-8228. You may also directly contact the three major credit reporting bureaus listed below to request a free copy of your credit report.

Place a fraud alert on your credit file. Consumers have the right to place an initial or extended “fraud alert” on a credit file at no cost. An initial fraud alert is a one-year alert that is placed on a consumer’s credit file. Upon seeing a fraud alert display on a consumer’s credit file, a business is required to take steps to verify the consumer’s identity before extending new credit. If you are a victim of identity theft, you are entitled to an extended fraud alert, which is a fraud alert lasting seven years. Should you wish to place a fraud alert, please contact any one of the three major credit reporting bureaus listed below.

Place a security freeze on your credit file. As an alternative to a fraud alert, consumers have the right to place a “credit freeze” on a credit report, which will prohibit a credit bureau from releasing information in the credit report without the consumer’s express authorization. The credit freeze is designed to prevent credit, loans, and services from being approved in your name without your consent. However, you should be aware that using a credit freeze to take control over who gets access to the personal and financial information in your credit report may delay, interfere with, or prohibit the timely approval of any subsequent request or application you make regarding a new loan, credit, mortgage, or any other account involving the extension of credit. Pursuant to federal law, you cannot be charged to place or lift a credit freeze on your credit report. To request a security freeze, you will need to provide the following information:

  1. Full name (including middle initial as well as Jr., Sr., II, III, etc.);
  2. Social Security number;
  3. Date of birth;
  4. Addresses for the prior two to five years;
  5. Proof of current address, such as a current utility bill or telephone bill;
  6. A legible photocopy of a government-issued identification card (state driver’s license or ID card, military identification, etc.); and
  7. A copy of either the police report, investigative report, or complaint to a law enforcement agency concerning identity theft if you are a victim of identity theft.

Should you wish to place a fraud alert or credit freeze, please contact the three major credit reporting bureaus listed below:

Equifax
https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/
1-888-298-0045
Equifax Fraud Alert, P.O. Box 105069 Atlanta, GA 30348-5069
Equifax Credit Freeze, P.O. Box 105788 Atlanta, GA 30348-5788

Experian
https://www.experian.com/help/
1-888-397-3742
Experian Fraud Alert, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013
Experian Credit Freeze, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013

TransUnion
https://www.transunion.com/credit-help
1-800-916-8800
TransUnion Fraud Alert, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016
TransUnion Credit Freeze, P.O. Box 160, Woodlyn, PA 19094

Additional Information

You may further educate yourself regarding identity theft, fraud alerts, credit freezes, and the steps you can take to protect your personal information by contacting the consumer reporting bureaus, the Federal Trade Commission, or your state Attorney General. The Federal Trade Commission may be reached at: 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20580; www.identitytheft.gov; 1-877-ID-THEFT (1-877-438-4338); and TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The Federal Trade Commission also encourages those who discover that their information has been misused to file a complaint with them. You can obtain further information on how to file such a complaint by way of the contact information listed above. You have the right to file a police report if you ever experience identity theft or fraud. Please note that in order to file a report with law enforcement for identity theft, you will likely need to provide some proof that you have been a victim. Instances of known or suspected identity theft should also be reported to law enforcement and your state Attorney General. This notice has not been delayed by law enforcement.

Mick McDonald

mmcdonald@bmico.com

 

RALEIGH, N.C. (February 27, 2024) – Builders Mutual is distributing a $3.3 million dividend to eligible policyholders in Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

For 40 years, Builders Mutual has returned dividends to eligible policyholders that put safety first by implementing safety and risk management programs that protect their workers. This year, Builders Mutual is proud to return a dividend to nearly 13,200 eligible Workers’ Compensation policyholders. Returning a dividend to policyholders recognizes their focus on safety in the workplace and the positive results of our company.

“Every day, we work to protect and advance the unique needs of the contractor community. Our dividend distribution is one way Builders Mutual can reward policyholders who make safety a priority,” said Mike Gerber, President/CEO of Builders Mutual. “Ensuring safety remains top of mind in a construction industry that continues to thrive, along with our company’s financial strength, makes distributing this dividend possible.”

You can learn more about Builders Mutual here.

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About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry. Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 29,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs nearly 450 staff throughout our footprint.

Each year, Builders Mutual recognizes our Champions Club and Builders Reserve agencies for the profitable partnerships they maintain with our company. As agencies look to grow their book of business, these programs are one way we can reward that success.

A special congratulations goes out to our 2024 Builders Reserve members, our 'best of the best.' Being recognized in this elite group is an exciting accomplishment. 

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Mick McDonald

mmcdonald@bmico.com

RALEIGH, N.C. (December 12, 2023) – Builders Mutual is proud to announce several changes to our Board of Directors.

At the most recent meeting of the Board in early December, it was announced that current Board Chair Rick Judson will retire following two decades as a member of the board. Longtime Board member and former Vice Chair, Dave Stormont, was announced as the new Chair. The Board also added new member Jennifer Taylor.

Judson served as Board Chair since 2006, having managed through the housing boom, economic downturn, and helped capitalize on the housing rebound as Builders Mutual expanded into new states and grew from $145M in premium to more than $500M. He also served as NAHB Chair during this time, spending extensive time traveling the country advocating for affordable housing and builder members.

“We have been incredibly fortunate to have a Board Chair as engaged and enthusiastic as Rick Judson,” said Mike Gerber, CEO of Builders Mutual. “As a developer and builder with broad connections in the industry, Rick has led us through dramatic growth and countless changes and challenges in the industry, all while navigating with a steady hand. I want to thank Rick for all he has given Builders Mutual over the years.”

With Judson leaving the Board, Dave Stormont will now take over as Chair. Stormont is the retired owner of Storm Coast Homes, a custom home builder in Kitty Hawk, NC. He has been a member of the Board since 2004.

“I am proud to be named as Chairman of the Board for Builders Mutual,” said Stormont. “I’ve spent years working alongside Rick and know his are big shoes to fill. However, given the strong position he’s left us in, I am incredibly confident that moving forward we can continue to achieve new heights and push forward into the future. Builders Mutual is blessed to have such an awesome and capable Board of Directors who truly understand the construction industry and the needs of all of us who depend on a strong insurance partner.”

In addition to adding a new Board Chair, the group also added Jennifer Taylor to the Board, marking the first woman to serve on the Builders Mutual Board of Directors. Jennifer spent more than three decades as an insurance agent, including owning Senn Dunn Insurance in Raleigh.

“First and foremost, Jennifer is an unquestionable home run addition to our Board. Her decades of agency experience will be invaluable leading us into the future,” said Gerber. “As a company that is committed to inclusivity, we know how important it is to have different voices contributing to all discussions. Jennifer’s joining our Board marks a major step forward for us in that regard.”

Finally, the Board also announced that former Board Secretary Erik Anderson will serve as Vice Chair and Mark Martin, a Board member since 2019, will take over as Secretary.

For full details on our Board of Directors and to learn more about Builders Mutual, visit buildersmutual.com/about-us.

 

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry. Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 29,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs nearly 450 staff throughout our footprint.

Mick McDonald

919-227-0548

mmcdonald@bmico.com

RALEIGH, N.C. (September 14, 2023)– Builders Mutual is pleased to announce that Keith Goad has been appointed as the company’s Chief Financial Officer.

“I’ve long admired Builders Mutual for being leaders in their field and I’m excited to join the team,” said Goad. “I’m looking forward to being a part of a company with such strong relationships and deep expertise supporting the construction industry.”

Goad brings three decades of experience to his role at Builders Mutual. He began his career with Fifth Third Bank and eventually moved to a financial analysis role with Columbia Energy Group. He then broke into the insurance industry in 2005 and spent more than a decade at Nationwide, where he worked as a business unit CFO and in corporate strategy.

In 2016, Goad became the Chief Financial Officer of Central Insurance Companies, which saw dramatic financial growth under his leadership.

“We are absolutely elated to bring Keith on board as our Chief Financial Officer,” said Mike Gerber, President and CEO of Builders Mutual. “With an impressive background in finance and a proven track record of strategic leadership, I am confident that Keith will play a pivotal role in shaping the financial future of our company.”

As CFO, Goad will oversee all financial, accounting, actuarial, and analytics operations at Builders Mutual.

 

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry. Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 29,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs nearly 450 staff throughout our footprint.

Mick McDonald

mmcdonald@bmico.com

RALEIGH, N.C. – Builders Mutual, a leader in providing insurance coverage to the construction industry, is proud to announce it has been named to the prestigious Ward's 50 group of top performing companies for the fifth consecutive year. The recognition focuses on Builders Mutual’s outstanding financial results in the areas of safety, consistency, and performance over a five-year period (2018-2022).

This annual designation from the industry-leading organization, Ward Group, identifies companies that pass financial stability requirements and measure their ability to grow while maintaining strong capital positions and underwriting results. To be awarded this designation, insurance companies must pass thresholds of performance and excellence.

“We are thrilled to be recognized by Ward Group in the esteemed Ward’s 50 for the fifth consecutive year,” said Mike Gerber, President and CEO of Builders Mutual. “Our staff works diligently each day to excel in safety, consistency, and performance. Receiving this honor shows the commitment the Builders Mutual team has to the construction industry, our policyholders, and our agents.”

Ward Group is the trusted leader of benchmarking and best practices services for the insurance industry. For over 30 years, the firm has analyzed the financial performance of nearly 3,000 property-casualty insurance companies, identifying the top performers per segment. Each Ward’s 50 company has passed all safety and consistency screens and achieved superior performance over the five years analyzed.

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry. Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 29,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff throughout our footprint.

Mick McDonald

mmcdonald@bmico.com

RALEIGH, N.C. (May 17, 2023) – Builders Mutual is thrilled to announce that our Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) was once again reaffirmed by A.M. Best Company, the world-wide leading source for information on the financial condition and operating performance of insurance companies, on May 2, 2023. This marks the 24th consecutive time Builders Mutual has earned this rating.

In A.M. Best’s Rating Rationale Summary, Builders Mutual’s balance sheet was categorized as “Strongest”, highlighting the consistent, organic surplus growth over the last ten years. It also highlighted operating performance as “Strong”, noting significant net premiums in written growth over the last five years across all lines of business. A.M. Best describes the outlook for Builders Mutual as “Stable”, which reflects expectations that the company will maintain a balance sheet strength assessment in the strongest range over the immediate term while continuing to report favorable operating results.

“We are proud to once again receive this important designation from A.M. Best,” said Mike Gerber, President and Chief Executive Officer of Builders Mutual. “Our team works tirelessly to maintain our operating performance and financial strength and this recognition reinforces our ability to continue to support our policyholders and agents.” You can learn more about Builders Mutual here.

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry. Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

Mick McDonald
mmcdonald@bmico.com

RALEIGH, N.C. (February 24, 2023) – Builders Mutual is distributing a $3.1 million dividend to eligible policyholders in Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

Builders Mutual has returned dividends totaling more than $70 million in 34 of the 38 years the Company has been in existence. This year, Builders Mutual is proud to return a dividend to more than 12,700 eligible Workers’ Compensation policyholders. Returning a dividend to our policyholders is one way we are able to recognize their focus on safety in the workplace and the positive results of our company.

“Our dividend distribution is one important way Builders Mutual is able to reward our policyholders who make safety a priority on their job-sites,” said Mike Gerber, President/CEO of Builders Mutual. “Maintaining a focus on safety in a construction industry that continues to grow and thrive, along with our company’s financial strength, makes distributing this dividend possible.”

You can learn more about Builders Mutual here.

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry. Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

Mick McDonald
mmcdonald@bmico.com

RALEIGH, N.C. – Builders Mutual is pleased to announce that Mike Gerber, Chief
Executive Officer, has been inducted into the North Carolina Housing Hall of Fame.

The NC Housing Fall of Fame’s Board of Governors selected the worthy inductees from an
outstanding pool of candidates nominated this year. The primary purpose of the NCHHF is
to honor men and women who have made significant and lasting contributions to housing in
North Carolina, the building industry, and to the North Carolina Home Builders Association.

“Being inducted into the North Carolina Housing Hall of Fame is truly the honor of a lifetime.
For nearly 25 years, I’ve been committed to improving the construction industry with a
never-ending dedication to safety,” said Gerber. “I am passionate about this business and
am grateful to have a wonderful working relationship with the NCHBA. I look forward to
continuing to advocate for all those who work in this field.”

Gerber has worked closely with the NCHBA for many years, advocating for workers’
compensation reform. Gerber served on the HBA of Raleigh-Wake County Board of
Directors for nearly 20 years, was a presidential appointee for NCHBA’s executive
committee for 15 years and has been named a Lifetime Delegate of the National
Association of Homebuilders.

Gerber worked to establish the Job-Site Safety institute in 2014, a nonprofit 501©(3)
organization that is dedicated to eliminating all job-site related injuries and deaths in the
construction industry. As a proponent of service beyond self, he believes strongly in
educating others on making job-sites safe for all. His connections with key leaders at NAHB,
OSHA, NIOSH and local universities led to the development of several important grants
focused on opioid awareness, virtual capabilities for hazard detection, toolbox talk videos,
and employee mentoring programs. He has continually strived to better the construction
industry and has become a staunch supporter for those who work within this field.

“Through Mike Gerber’s leadership, Builders Mutual has been a leader in supporting
NCHBA and the housing industry for decades,” said Tim Minton, Executive Vice President
of the North Carolina Home Builders Association. “Mike’s involvement in leadership
positions at the local, state and national level demonstrates his commitment to our
members and his focus on job safety has greatly impacted the industry.”

Learn more about the North Carolina Home Builders Association and the North Carolina Housing Hall of Fame.

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the
Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction
industry. Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North
Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South
Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000
policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff at its
Raleigh headquarters.

About the North Carolina Home Builders Association: The North Carolina Home
Builders Association comprises approximately 14,000 builders and associate member-firms
and a network of local home builder associations throughout North Carolina. NCHBA
protects the American Dream of home ownership through advocacy, education and
professional business development.

Mick McDonald
mmcdonald@bmico.com

RALEIGH, N.C. – Builders Mutual, a leader in providing insurance coverage to the construction industry, is proud to announce that True Homes has been named the winner of the 2022 Builders Mutual Safety Program of the Year STARS Award.

The award, which was presented at the 2022 NCHBA STARS Awards, recognizes the achievements of builders or trade contractors who have developed, implemented, and maintained a high-quality safety program.

True Homes has created a deep culture of safety throughout their company through a strongly-written safety program, requiring everyone on active job-sites to meet their outlined safety standards, providing CORE Orientation Training for all new hires, and using a Corporate Safety Director.

"At True Homes, our most valued resources are our associates, trade partners, clients, and communities we serve. We are dedicated to providing a safe and healthy environment for associates, trade partners, and clients, protecting the public, and preserving True Homes' properties and assets,” said True Homes Corporate Field Trainer Jackie Fitzella. “We are honored to accept the Builders Mutual Safety Program of the Year award and are proud to celebrate our entire team and recognize their commitment to safety."

“True Homes is most deserving of this recognition as a leader in job-site safety,” said Builders Mutual CEO Mike Gerber. “They have displayed a willingness to invest not only in the safety of their own associates, but of their trade partners, vendors, and the general public. They are a wonderful example of how an organization should prioritize safety.”

Learn more about the work of True Homes at https://www.truehomesusa.com/.

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry.  Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

About True Homes USA

True Homes is the recipient of the Gold National Housing Quality award from Professional Builder Magazine. The builder has been named Builder of the Year and received the Best Place to Work award in Charlotte in 2018 and again in 2021, True Homes is a Carolinas-based semi-custom homebuilder dedicated to bringing the best new-home designs, style, and value to residential communities throughout North and South Carolina. As a new-home builder, True Homes is committed to providing an unparalleled experience for homebuyers, by treating them like family members and friends and making sure they get the absolute most for their money. For more information, visit www.TrueHomesUSA.com.

Mick McDonald
919-227-0548
mmcdonald@bmico.com

Raleigh, N.C. (July 26, 2022) – Builders Mutual, one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry, recognizes the one-year anniversary of CEO Mike Gerber, as the company looks back on how they effectively managed through volatility and set a strategic foundation for sustained success.

Gerber joined Builders Mutual 25 years ago and has led and/or worked with nearly every department, gaining a genuine appreciation for the value contributed by each role. “Because we planned so well for the CEO transition, the first year seemed fairly predictable. I was completely aligned with the strategy, so it wasn’t so much a learning experience as much as an evolution,” says Gerber. “But when I look back and realize some of the challenges we ultimately faced and how much we truly accomplished—it was certainly not business as usual.”

Shortly after Gerber took on the CEO role, the great resignation hit, and Builders Mutual felt the impact. While working to effectively handle this extraordinary market condition, the company was also building a new leadership team with an emphasis on cohesiveness and diversity, so there was a top-down focus on retaining existing talent and recruiting new teammates in innovative ways. According to Gerber, “While we’ve made strides in our history to diversify our workforce, we haven’t really evolved to where we need to be. So, I wanted to send a message about how important it is to me that we enhance our workforce diversity and promote career opportunities—not just jobs.”

A huge IT overhaul is another focus area for Gerber and team in the efforts to establish a foundation for future success. Although cutting-edge technology is not a market differentiator for Builders Mutual, it does enable the business to optimize day-to-day functions, so leadership wanted to ensure every business function helps drive the process. “It’s not an upgrade for upgrade’s sake,” Gerber explains, “but rather a future-focused strategy to build our capacity to better run operations, grow business, and improve data.”

Because Builders Mutual focuses solely on insurance for construction, being the industry experts is part of their DNA. And living up to that moniker takes consistency, persistence, and a desire to always improve. During Gerber’s first year as CEO, the leadership team renewed this commitment through its long-term strategic plan, putting actions in place so every employee has the tools they need to be an expert in their distinct job function.

“Regardless of a person’s role in the company, we’ve all got to give evidence that we are experts,” Gerber says. “It’s how we differentiate ourselves in the marketplace.”

Builders Mutual certainly had the opportunity to prove itself over the past two years. When the pandemic hit, the company was able to deliver industry-specific solutions to the extraordinary challenges. They quickly pulled together Covid-specific job-site training, provided solutions to keep essential workers safe, equipped businesses to weather the financial storms, and ensured that their agents, partners, and policyholders knew how valued they are. Then, as challenges continued to arise over the past 12 months, Gerber and his leadership team faced each of them with the confidence of, well, experts.

###

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry.  Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

Mick McDonald
919-227-0548
mmcdonald@bmico.com

RALEIGH, N.C. – Builders Mutual Insurance Company, a leader in providing insurance coverage to the construction industry, is proud to announce it has been named to the prestigious Ward's 50 group of top performing companies for the fourth consecutive year. The recognition focuses on Builders Mutual’s outstanding financial results in the areas of safety, consistency, and performance over a five-year period (2017-2021).

This annual designation from the industry-leading organization, Ward Group, identifies companies that pass financial stability requirements and measure their ability to grow while maintaining strong capital positions and underwriting results. To be awarded this designation, insurance companies must pass thresholds of performance and excellence. 

“We are so pleased to once again be recognized by the Ward Group in the esteemed Ward’s 50 for the fourth consecutive year,” said Mike Gerber, President and Chief Executive Officer of Builders Mutual. “We work tirelessly to ensure excellence in safety, consistency, and performance. This honor highlights the dedication and commitment our team has to the construction industry, our policyholders, and our agents.”

Ward Group is the trusted leader of benchmarking and best practices services for the insurance industry. For the past 32 years, the firm has analyzed the financial performance of nearly 3,000 property-casualty insurance companies and 700 life-health insurance companies, identifying the top performers per segment.

About Ward Benchmarking: We are the leading provider of benchmarking and best practices studies for the insurance industry. Our team analyzes staff levels, compensation, business practices, and expenses for all areas of company operations and helps insurers to measure results compared to peer groups, optimize performance, and improve profitability. Since 1991, we have performed more than 3,000 operational and compensation benchmarking exercises for companies of all sizes. For more information, please visit ward.aon.com.

About Aon: Aon plc (NYSE:AON) is a leading global provider of risk management, insurance brokerage and reinsurance brokerage, and human resources solutions and outsourcing services. Through its more than 50,000 colleagues worldwide, Aon unites to empower results for clients in over 120 countries via innovative risk and people solutions. For further information on our capabilities and to learn how we empower results for clients, please visit: http://aon.mediaroom.com.

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry.  Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

Lindsay Beavers
919-227-0296
lbeavers@bmico.com

Raleigh, NC – Builders Mutual Insurance Company participated in the 2022 OSHA National Safety Stand-Down to prevent falls in construction from May 2-13, 2022

Over these two weeks, Builders Mutual risk management consultants in our market footprint met with policyholders on their job-sites to provide fall protection safety information and encourage participation in the stand-down for safety. Our team visited 189 job-sites in eight states and the District of Columbia, and trained more than 2,250 workers.

“Falls remain the #1 accident on the job-site and the leading cause of death in construction. OSHA National Safety Stand-Down provides a platform for Builders Mutual to reiterate the importance of fall protection and general job-site safety,” notes Mike Gerber, Chief Executive Officer at Builders Mutual.

This is the ninth consecutive year Builders Mutual has participated and encouraged our policyholders to join in the National Safety Stand-Down.

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry.  Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

Lindsay Beavers
919-227-0296
lbeavers@bmico.com

Raleigh, N.C. – Builders Mutual Insurance Company is pleased to announce that our Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) was reaffirmed by A.M. Best Company, the world-wide leading source for information on the financial condition and operating performance of insurance companies, on May 5, 2022.  This marks the 23rd consecutive time Builders Mutual has earned this rating. 

According to the A.M. Best Rating Rationale Summary, the rating reflects the strength of Builders Mutual’s balance sheet, which is categorized as “Strongest.”  A.M. Best commented on the company’s strong capital position, robust distribution channels, significant management experience, and conservative reserving practices.  A.M. Best describes the outlook for Builders Mutual as “Stable” which reflects favorable expectations that the company will maintain a balance sheet strength assessment in the strongest range over the immediate term and will continue to report favorable operating results.

“A.M. Best rating Builders Mutual as an “A” company remains important to us.  It reflects the strength of our company and reinforces our capacity to support our policyholders and agents,” states Mike Gerber, President and Chief Executive Officer. 

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry.  Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

Lindsay Beavers
919-227-0296
lbeavers@bmico.com

Raleigh, NC – Builders Mutual Insurance Company is distributing a $3 million dividend to eligible policyholders in Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington, DC.

Builders Mutual has returned dividends totaling nearly $70 million in 33 of the 37 years the Company has been in existence.  This year, Builders Mutual is proud to return a dividend to more than 12,200 eligible Workers’ Compensation policyholders.  Returning a dividend to our policyholders is one way we are able to recognize their focus on safety in the work place and the positive results of our company. 

“This dividend distribution is one way Builders Mutual is able to reward our policyholders who take the time to make safety a priority on their job-sites.  As the construction industry continues to thrive, they have maintained a strong focus on the safety of their teams.  That effort, coupled with our company’s financial strength, made this dividend possible,” stated Mike Gerber, President/CEO of Builders Mutual.

Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry.  Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 400 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

Each year, Builders Mutual recognizes our Champions Club and Builders Reserve agencies for the profitable partnerships they maintain with our company. As agencies look to grow their book of business, these programs are one way we can reward that success.

A special congratulations goes out to our 2022 Builders Reserve members, our 'best of the best.' Being recognized in this elite group is an exciting accomplishment. 

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Jodi Vedelli
919-227-0295
jvedelli@bmico.com

Raleigh, NC - Builders Mutual is excited to announce that Ross Fowler, Vice President of Underwriting, received the Honorary Alumni Award from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Belk College of Business. He was honored on November 3 during the virtual 2021 Belk College of Business Alumni Awards ceremony.

Ross is a member of the Belk College Risk Management and Insurance Advisory Board and founded the annual Risk Management and Insurance Golf Tournament. The tournament, in its fourth year, has raised $195,000 to create financial support from industry partners for student scholarships. Proceeds provide critically important funding to students to enable them to complete their degree or navigate unexpected emergency expenses.  Additionally, Ross provides ongoing mentorship and is an invaluable example of servant leadership. 

“We are proud of Ross’ dedication and continued support of the Belk College of Business,” stated Mike Gerber, President and CEO of Builders Mutual. “His specific contributions to the Risk Management and Insurance program speaks volumes about his dedication to the future of the insurance industry.” 

Ross joined Builders Mutual in 2012 as Assistant Vice President of Underwriting and was promoted to Vice President in 2019. He has more than 37 years of underwriting, sales and marketing experience.  Ross feels strongly about servant leadership and believes that the more you grow in your career, the more you should serve and give back.

The Honorary Alumni Award recognizes individuals who, while not graduates of the Belk College, have made significant contributions to its leadership, vision and educational mission.

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry.  Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 390 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

 

Jodi Vedelli
919-227-0295
jvedelli@bmico.com

Raleigh, NC – The 2nd annual national Guardrail Safety Week was held October 18-22, 2021.  Builders Mutual Insurance Company, a leading writer of commercial insurance for the construction industry in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, joined forces with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), Job-Site Safety Institute (JSI) and Safety Maker to promote the initiative. Our collective intent is to raise awareness of the importance of guardrails and to encourage consistent use on job-sites to save lives and send more people – both workers and job-site visitors – home at the end of the day. 

Construction means progress—new structures, offices, and homes reflect a thriving economy and community growth. But with 1 in 10 construction workers injured annually, we must all take action to keep the construction industry safe and help protect those on the job-site – both workers and visitors. Proper installation of guardrails takes only a few minutes, yet it can be the difference between life and death. When we spread the word about guardrail safety and the preventative impact of proper guardrail use, the statistics will change.

This year’s virtual campaign focused on partnerships and awareness with Builders Mutual providing content through an email campaign and multiple daily social media posts. The company shared original blog articles, training resources and videos on their social channels.  Social posts were shared by NAHB, JSI and Safety Maker and their followers to help educate employees and visitors about the importance of guardrail safety. The 2021 email and social campaigns had great success and the reach totaled more than 84,000. 

Additionally, ten construction companies were recognized as leaders in guardrail safety. These companies go above and beyond each day to promote guardrail safety through education and ensuring that guardrails are installed and reinstalled when necessary on their job-sites.

  • Amarx Construction, NC
  • Bergeron Framing, FL
  • Chevy Chase Contractors, MD
  • Dry-Tech Commercial Roofing, NC
  • Evans Coghill Homes LLCP, NC
  • Foxhall Homes LLC, MD
  • H&H Homes, NC
  • McGee Brothers Co Inc, NC
  • True Homes LLC, NC
  • VGC, Inc., NC

“Proper guardrail installation, use and safety is a topic of great importance to Builders Mutual.  We are proud to team up with NAHB, JSI and SafetyMaker to promote the second annual Guardrail Safety Week and further our ‘Put Your Guard Up’ campaign.  Builders Mutual will continue to advocate for and encourage preventative measures to ensure every job-site is safe,” said, Mike Gerber, President/Chief Executive Officer with Builders Mutual.  “Guardrails are one of the proven ways to prevent falls and fall-related injuries, and they should never be overlooked or undervalued.”

Mark your calendars now for October 17-21, 2022 to celebrate the third annual Guardrail Safety Week.  Join us in changing the safety culture and remember to Put Your Guard Up. #guardrailsprotecteveryone #guardrailsafetyweek

About Builders Mutual: Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry.  Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 390 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.

Jodi Vedelli
919-227-0295
jvedelli@bmico.com

Raleigh, NC- Builders Mutual Insurance Company is pleased to announce that Rick Judson, Chairman of our Board of Directors, was inducted into the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) National Housing Hall of Fame.  Judson, a Charlotte, North Carolina-based builder and developer and owner of Evergreen Development Group, received this honor on Friday, October 15, 2021 during NAHB’s fall leadership meeting in Houston, Texas.

Judson began his career in the building industry by purchasing his family’s insulating contracting business.  After that, he turned his attention to building and real estate development. In the 1980s, Judson established a building company that specialized in custom homes and evolved into building entry-level homes. He later expanded the scope to include multifamily and commercial projects. 

Judson is a member of the Home Builders Association of Greater Charlotte and the North Carolina Home Builders Association (NCHBA).  In 1988, he was named NCHBA Associate of the Year and served as President of the Association in 2004.  Judson has served on the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Board of Directors since 1979 and twice served as NAHB State Representative from North Carolina, and NAHB National Area Chairman representing North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.  In 2013, he was named NAHB Chairman.  His distinguished career includes election as president of the Insulation Contractors Association of America and receiving North Carolina’s highest civilian honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, for his community and philanthropic work. Judson, who has served as a member of the Builders Mutual Board of Directors since 2003 and served as Chairman since 2006, is also an inductee of the NC Housing Hall of Fame.

“We are extremely proud of Rick’s induction into the National Housing Hall of Fame,” stated Mike Gerber, President and Chief Executive Officer of Builders Mutual.  “Rick has worked his entire life in support of the construction industry and continues to tirelessly participate in important initiatives that affect home builders.  Rick’s involvement on the local, state and national levels of NAHB is unparalleled and we are honored that he continues to lead Builders Mutual as Chairman of the Board.” 

The National Housing Hall of Fame was established in 1976 and honors builders, developers, architects, financiers, land planners and government administrators who have made major contributions to the housing industry. Hall of Fame honorees are selected by the National Housing Center Board of Governors.

Headquartered in North Carolina, Builders Mutual is one of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the construction industry.  Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 28,000 policyholders through more than 5,000 sales agents and employs more than 380 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.