Builder's Risk Insurance

What is Builder’s Risk Insurance?

Builder's risk insurance, also known as course of construction insurance, is a specialized type of property insurance designed to protect buildings and structures that are under construction or renovation. It provides coverage for damage or loss to the insured property during the construction process.

Builder's risk insurance typically covers the structure being built, as well as materials, equipment, and supplies on the construction site. It may also extend to include temporary structures, such as scaffolding and construction trailers. The coverage generally applies to risks such as fire, theft, vandalism, wind, hail, and other specified perils.

The policy period of builder's risk insurance is typically based on the anticipated length of the construction project. It usually starts when the construction begins and ends when the project is completed or the property is occupied. The coverage can be purchased by the property owner, the contractor, or the developer, depending on the terms of the contract.

In the event of a covered loss, builder's risk insurance can help cover the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged property. This may include materials, labor, and other expenses necessary to restore the property to its pre-loss condition. The policy may also provide coverage for additional expenses, such as debris removal and the cost of complying with building codes and regulations.

It's important to note that builder's risk insurance typically excludes certain types of losses, such as those caused by faulty design, acts of war, earthquakes, and intentional damage. It's advisable to carefully review the policy terms and exclusions to understand the specific coverage provided.

Overall, builder's risk insurance provides essential protection for construction projects, safeguarding against potential financial losses that can occur during the construction phase.

  • Builders risk insurance, also known as construction insurance or course of construction insurance, provides coverage for property that is under construction, renovation, or being repaired. It is designed to protect the project owner, general contractor, and other parties involved in the construction process from financial loss due to unexpected events or damages that may occur during the course of construction.

    Here are some typical coverages provided by builder’s risk insurance:

    1. Property Damage: Builders risk insurance covers damage or loss to the insured project itself, including the building or structure under construction, as well as materials, equipment, and supplies on-site. This coverage includes risks such as fire, theft, vandalism, windstorm, lightning, and certain natural disasters.

    2. Soft Costs: Builders risk insurance can also cover soft costs, which are expenses beyond physical damage. Soft costs may include items such as architectural and engineering fees, permits, legal fees, financing costs, and other expenses associated with delays or interruptions in the construction project.

    3. Equipment and Tools: Coverage may extend to construction equipment, tools, and machinery used on the project site. This includes both owned and rented equipment.

    4. Debris Removal: Builders risk insurance can cover the cost of debris removal resulting from a covered loss. This helps with the cleanup process after a covered event and ensures that the construction site can be restored promptly.

    5. Business Interruption: In some cases, builders risk insurance may provide coverage for business interruption or loss of income resulting from a covered event that leads to delays in the construction project.

    It's important to note that builders risk insurance policies can vary, and specific coverage terms and conditions may differ between insurers. It's recommended to consult with an insurance professional or an insurance provider to understand the details of a particular policy and ensure it meets the specific needs of your construction project.