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Professional Liability for Construction Firms

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Nov 02, 2024

Get Professional Liability Insurance for Construction Firms in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Reading, Lancaster, Allentown, and throughout PA

Construction companies need professional liability insurance to protect against errors, omissions, design faults, and project mishaps. It covers legal defense and claims that may arise, offering peace of mind. Understanding the difference between "claims made" and "occurrence" policies ensures adequate coverage for unforeseen liabilities.

Errors and Omissions

Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, often called Professional Liability Insurance, is a critical safety net for construction companies. It covers the legal costs and settlements arising from claims of professional negligence, errors, or omissions in the services they provide. These issues can occur during project planning, design, or execution and might result in financial losses or damage to property for clients.

For instance, if a construction company makes a design error that leads to structural issues, E&O insurance can help cover the costs associated with the claim. This type of insurance is essential because even minor oversights can lead to significant financial repercussions, potentially jeopardizing the company's stability. It ensures that construction firms can operate with greater confidence, knowing they have protection against unforeseen mistakes that could lead to costly litigation. 

Coverage for Design Faults

Coverage for design faults is another critical aspect of professional liability insurance for construction firms and design professionals. This coverage protects businesses from claims arising from errors, omissions, or negligence in the design phase of a project. Such faults can lead to significant issues, including structural failures, safety hazards, or project delays, resulting in costly repairs and legal disputes.

Design fault coverage typically encompasses legal defense costs, settlements, and judgments from such claims. For instance, if an architect's flawed design leads to a building's structural weaknesses, this coverage can help manage the financial consequences.

Construction firms need design fault coverage, which ensures that potential liabilities from design mistakes do not severely impact a firm's financial health or reputation. This allows construction and design professionals to work with increased confidence, knowing they are protected against the unforeseen challenges that might arise during complex projects.

Claims-Made vs. Occurrence Policies

Claims-made and occurrence policies offer different coverage timings for construction companies’ liability insurance. A claims-made policy provides coverage only if the policy is active both when an incident occurs and when the claim is filed. This provision means that if a policy lapses or is not renewed, the insurance company might not cover any claims made after this period, even if the event happened while the policy was active.

In contrast, an occurrence policy covers any incidents during the policy period, regardless of when the policyholder files the claim. Even if a business makes a claim years after the policy has expired, as long as the incident occurred during the covered period, it is still eligible for coverage.

Choosing between these depends on a firm’s exposure to long-tail claims and risk management strategy. An occurrence policy, in particular, offers a sense of long-term security since it covers any incidents during the policy period, regardless of the filing date of the claim. This reassurance can be a critical factor in your risk management strategy.

Contact Us Today to Save on Professional Liability Insurance for Contractors

Still have questions? Contact American Insuring Group for the best rates on professional liability insurance for contractors and construction firms. As independent brokers, we shop the market to find you the best deal on quality insurance!

So call us today at (610) 775-3848 or click here to start saving!

Tags: Construction Insurance, Contractor Insurance, Professional Liability Insurance

Understanding Worker's Compensation Insurance

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Oct 26, 2024

Contact us for Workers Comp Insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Reading, Allentown, Lancaster, Erie, York, and throughout PA.

In states such as Pennsylvania, worker's compensation insurance safeguards employers and employees by providing essential coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, disability benefits, and death benefits arising from workplace injuries. Understanding what it covers, who needs it, and how it protects your business can help you navigate the complexities of maintaining a safe and legally compliant work environment.

What Worker’s Compensation Insurance Covers

Worker's compensation insurance protects workers and business owners by covering the costs associated with workplace injuries or illnesses. It primarily covers medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation services necessary for the employee's recovery.

Additionally, it pays for lost wages if the employee cannot work due to their injury or illness, ensuring they have financial support during their recovery period.

The insurance also includes disability benefits, which can be short-term or long-term, depending on the severity of the injury. In cases where the injury leads to death, worker's compensation insurance offers death benefits to the dependents or beneficiaries of the deceased employee.

Who Needs Worker’s Compensation Coverage?

Worker's compensation insurance is essential for employers, freelancers, and high-risk industries. Employers are almost always legally obligated to provide this coverage, ensuring employees are protected from workplace injuries or illnesses. This legal requirement varies by state but generally applies to most businesses with employees.

Freelancers and independent contractors might also need worker's compensation insurance, mainly if they work in high-risk fields or have clients requiring proof of coverage. High-risk industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, have a higher incidence of workplace injuries, making worker's compensation insurance especially necessary.

The coverage ensures regulatory compliance and demonstrates a commitment to employee welfare, which can enhance trust and loyalty within the workforce.

How Does Worker’s Compensation Insurance Protect Your Business?

This essential insurance provides a safety net that protects businesses in several ways. First and foremost, it offers legal protection by shielding the company from expensive lawsuits related to workplace injuries or illnesses. If an employee gets hurt on the job, the insurance covers medical expenses and lost wages, significantly reducing the risk of costly legal battles.

Another advantage is financial stability. By covering unexpected costs like medical bills and disability benefits, worker's compensation ensures that a business can manage these expenses without jeopardizing its economic health.

Also, worker's compensation insurance helps maintain high employee morale and loyalty. Employees feel more secure and valued when they know their employer has measures in place for their well-being and financial security.

Finally, worker's compensation insurance ensures regulatory compliance with state and federal laws, helping businesses avoid fines and penalties. Overall, it strengthens a business's reputation and operational stability.

Don’t Overpay for Worker's Compensation Insurance!

American Insuring Group offers cost-effective worker's compensation insurance from many competing insurance companies. We'll work hard to get you the best price on quality insurance for all your business needs.

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect online.

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance

Choosing the Right Truck Insurance Policy

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Oct 19, 2024

We'll help you choose the right truck insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Allentown, Lancaster, Lebanon, York, and throughout PA.

Picking a truck insurance policy is important for any truck owner or operator. It ensures protection against various risks and financial liabilities that could occur on the road. The best policy covers the basics and targets your specific needs, such as the type of truck, usage, and cargo. You can select the most suitable insurance by thoroughly assessing your coverage needs, comparing different insurers, and regularly reviewing your policy terms to adapt to changes in your situation.

Start by Assessing Your Coverage Needs

The first step in choosing the right truck insurance policy is assessing your coverage needs. Begin by understanding the different types of coverage available, such as liability, collision, comprehensive, cargo, uninsured motorist, and more.

Consider the specifics of your operation: the type of truck you own, how it is used (long-haul versus local deliveries), and the nature of the cargo it transports. Regulatory requirements also play a significant role, as some types of coverage might be mandated by law. Evaluate your driving history and risk tolerance to determine the level of coverage you need.

Additionally, factor in your budget and financial capacity, ensuring affordable coverage without compromising essential protections. This thorough assessment will lay the foundation for a well-suited insurance policy.

Ensure the Optimum Value and Protection by Comparing Insurers

Comparing insurers confirms you will get the best value and protection from your truck insurance policy. Start by researching various insurance providers, focusing on their reputation, financial stability, and customer service quality. Gather quotes from them to compare coverage options, premium costs, and deductibles.

Don't just look at price—evaluate whether the coverage is comprehensive enough for your needs. Check for additional benefits or discounts, such as safe driver incentives or multi-policy discounts.

Read reviews and testimonials from other truck owners to gauge their experiences and satisfaction. It's also beneficial to consult industry forums or networking groups for recommendations.

By thoroughly comparing insurers, you can make an informed decision that balances cost, coverage, and customer support, ensuring optimal protection for your needs.

Review the Policy Terms Regularly

Regularly reviewing the terms of your policy is essential to maintaining adequate and up-to-date truck insurance coverage. Begin by looking at your current policy to understand its scope, including any exclusions, limitations, and coverage specifics. Life circumstances, business operations, and regulatory requirements can change, making it necessary to adjust your policy.

Mark your calendar with policy renewal dates to prompt a review before automatic renewals. Pay attention to any premium adjustments and ensure they align with your coverage needs. Additionally, update the policy when you buy new vehicles, change driving routes, or modify the nature of your cargo.

Reviewing and adjusting your insurance terms can help you avoid gaps in coverage and ensure that your protection evolves with your business needs, preventing potential vulnerabilities.

Contact us for the Best Prices on Commercial Vehicle Insurance!

We are independent brokers here at American Insuring Group. Our agents shop the market for the best quality insurance rates that match your needs! Call us today at (610) 775-3848 or contact us online for the best truck and commercial vehicle insurance rates!

Tags: Commercial Vehicle Insurance, truck insurance

The Basics of Landlord Insurance

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Oct 12, 2024

Contact us for the best landlord insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Reading, Lancaster, Allentown, State College, and everywhere in PA.

Landlord insurance provides a safety net for property owners who lease their homes, apartments, or commercial spaces. Unlike standard homeowners insurance, landlord insurance covers explicitly the unique risks associated with rental properties, such as property damage, liability exposure, and loss of rental income.

This article explains what a landlord policy covers, the different types available, and why landlords should view these policies as essential coverage.

What Landlord Insurance Covers

Landlord insurance typically covers three primary areas: property damage, liability protection, and loss of rental income.

  • Property Damage includes coverage for physical damage to the rental property caused by fire, storms, theft, or vandalism. It can also cover aspects of the property, like the building structure and any appliances or furniture within the rental unit.

  • Liability Protection shields landlords against lawsuits from injuries or property damage on their rental property. For instance, if a tenant or visitor gets injured due to a maintenance issue, the liability coverage can help cover legal fees and medical expenses.

  • Loss of Rental Income coverage provides financial security. If the rental property becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, such as a fire or severe water damage, this coverage can compensate the landlord for the lost rental income during the repair period.

Types of Available Landlord Insurance Coverage

In addition to the main types of coverage--property damage, liability protection, and loss of rental income--landlord insurance generally falls into a few other types, each designed to cover different aspects of rental property risks:

  • Personal Property Coverage is for the landlord's personal property used to service the rental, such as appliances, tools, or furnishings provided with the property.

  • Emergency Coverage provides financial assistance for immediate repairs to protect the property after a damaging event.

  • Rent Guarantee Insurance safeguards the landlord against tenants defaulting on rent payments. It helps ensure steady cash flow even when tenants fail to pay.

As with many insurance policies, landlords can tailor coverage to meet specific needs.

Common endorsements to consider adding:

  • Vacant Property Endorsement covers the dwelling if left unoccupied for an extended period, usually 30 to 60 days.

  • Vandalism Endorsement is a good idea in an area with higher crime rates since insurers might not cover it in a standard landlord insurance policy.

  • Burglary Endorsement can provide additional coverage for stolen items like lawnmowers or snow blowers.

These endorsements will likely increase your premium, but they can offer valuable additional protection tailored to your unique needs.

Essential Coverage for Property Owners

Landlord insurance is essential because it protects property owners from financial loss from property damage, liability claims, and loss of rental income. It ensures that landlords are covered against unforeseen events like fires, storms, or tenant injuries, providing peace of mind and safeguarding investments. Without it, landlords could face significant out-of-pocket expenses for repairs, legal fees, and lost rental income, jeopardizing their financial stability and business.

Contact us for the best rates on landlord insurance!

We are independent brokers, shopping the market to find the best rates on quality landlord insurance designed to meet your needs! So call American Insuring Group today at (610) 775-3848 or contact us online to start saving immediately. 

Tags: Landlord Insurance

General Liability Insurance for Contractors

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Oct 05, 2024

Contact us for contractor general liability insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Lancaster, Lebanon, Allentown, Reading, Harrisburg, and throughout Pennsylvania.For contractors, safeguarding their business against unforeseen risks is a wise and critical decision. General liability insurance is a cornerstone of that protection, shielding contractors against many potential legal and financial pitfalls. From accidental property damage to unforeseen bodily injuries on the job site, liability insurance ensures that contractors can navigate their projects with confidence and security.

This article will explore the essentials of general liability insurance for contractors, discussing what it covers, common exclusions, and how contractors can add a layer of protection by bidding on their projects properly.

Coverage Scope

Here's an explanation of the scope of coverage for general liability insurance for contractors:

  • Bodily Injury: General liability insurance covers bodily injury claims to third parties on your job site or because of your business operations. For example, if a visitor to your construction site trips over equipment and gets injured, your policy would cover medical expenses, legal fees, and any settlements or judgments arising from the claim.

  • Property Damage: This coverage includes damage to someone else's property resulting from your work. If your construction activities accidentally damage a client's home or neighboring property, general liability insurance would cover the repair or replacement costs and any legal expenses in case of a lawsuit.

  • Personal and Advertising Injury: General liability insurance provides a broad range of protection, including coverage against various non-physical injuries, such as defamation, libel, slander, wrongful eviction, and false advertising.

  • Completed Operations: After a project is finished, issues stemming from your work could arise. For instance, if faulty wiring you installed causes a fire after the project completion, this coverage would handle the resulting property damage or injury claims.

  • Product Liability: Product liability insurance can cover the associated costs if your construction includes using specific products that result in damage or harm after job completion. For instance, if a structural component you provided fails and causes damage, this policy will address the claims.

Common Exclusions

While general liability insurance covers a broad range of risks, it does come with specific exclusions and limitations. Common exclusions include:

  • Professional Liability (Errors and Omissions): This would cover disputes arising from professional advice or services.

  • Employee Injuries: Typically, workers' compensation insurance covers these injuries.
  • Intentional Acts: Any damage or injury caused intentionally is not covered.
  • Automobile Liability: Businesses need separate commercial auto insurance for vehicle-related incidents.

Importance of Project Bidding

Project bidding is crucial since it ensures a clear definition of the scope of work and responsibilities, reducing ambiguities that could lead to disputes. It allows contractors to identify and manage risks, providing appropriate safety measures and insurance coverage are in place.

Detailed bids lead to comprehensive contracts with protective clauses, helping mitigate potential liabilities. Accurate bidding also aids in financial planning and demonstrates compliance with legal standards, building client trust and reducing the likelihood of claims. Effective bidding encourages transparency, risk management, and legal safeguards essential for minimizing liabilities.

Contact Us Today to Save on General Liability Insurance for Contractors

Still have questions? Contact American Insuring Group for the best rates on general liability insurance for contractors. As independent brokers, we shop the market to find you the best deal on quality insurance!

So call us today at (610) 775-3848 or click here to start saving!

Tags: Contractor Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Commercial General Liability Insurance

Legal Requirements for Worker's Compensation

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Sep 28, 2024

Contact us for Workers' Comp Insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Lancaster, Allentown, Harrisburg, and throughout PA

The legal requirements for worker's compensation insurance can be confusing. Most businesses must take out these policies by law whenever they hire someone but there are differences between states, sectors, and companies. 

This post looks at state-specific requirements, penalties for non-compliance, and when you don’t need a policy. Here’s what you need to know: 

State-specific requirements 

States requiring coverage for all employees include California, New Jersey, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, and New York. These don’t consider the number of employees you have, so insurance applies immediately. 

Other states require businesses to carry worker’s compensation insurance when they reach an employee threshold number. For example, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Rhode Island, and South Carolina demand that employers get worker’s comp when they hire four or more employees. For Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Virginia, it’s three or more, and for North Carolina and Wisconsin, it’s two or more. 

Some states have industry-specific requirements for worker’s compensation insurance that depend on the sector in which you operate. For instance, Michigan and Tennessee require construction worker’s compensation insurance regardless of the number of employees. 

Penalties for non-compliance

The penalties for non-compliance with worker’s compensation insurance regulations also vary considerably by state. Most have fines in place, and some threaten jail time. 

For instance, in California, it is a criminal offense to fail to provide worker’s compensation insurance. The state punishes people with up to a year in jail and fines between $10,000 and $100,000. 

New York also takes a tough stance. The state considers breaking the rules a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the violation. Fines go from $1,000 to $50,000 plus an additional $2,000 for each day without coverage. 

Pennsylvania has some of the strictest rules in the union and considers non-compliance with worker’s comp to be a felony of the third degree. The state imposes fines of up to $15,000 and up to seven years in jail. 

Florida takes a slightly different tack. It institutes a Stop-Work Order on companies found to be non-compliant and requires businesses to cease operations until they pay a fine and put proper insurance in place. Fines are usually twice the amount the employer would have spent on premiums over the preceding two years.

Lastly, in Illinois, employers who willfully fail to provide worker’s compensation insurance according to the rules face fines of $500 daily for non-compliance, with minimum penalties of $10,000. Furthermore, officers at companies failing to arrange insurance for their employees can be held personally liable. 

Exemptions

Despite the tough penalties for worker’s comp non-compliance, many states have exceptions. These include: 

  • Sole proprietors and partners who don’t hire anyone and who aren’t official employees of the firm
  • Workers who do not meet the definitional requirements of “employees” in some states
  • Domestic workers and housekeepers without contracts or working undefined hours
  • Independent contractors who aren’t employees (in some states)
  • Businesses with less than the minimum employee threshold (as discussed)

Contact us For the Best Pricing on Worker's Compensation Insurance!

If you want guidance on the legal requirements for worker’s compensation insurance, contact our team. As independent brokers, we shop the market to find you the best deal on quality insurance!

So call us today at  (610) 775-3848 or contact us online to start saving.

 

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance

Choosing the Right Truck Insurance Policy

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Sep 21, 2024

We can help you choose the best truck insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Lancaster, Erie, Allentown, Reading, York, and throughout PA

Choosing the right trucking insurance policy isn’t always straightforward. But this guide is here to help. We provide some tips on choosing the right coverage for your business. 

Assess your coverage needs

The first step is to assess your coverage requirements – the policy considerations you need to protect against the losses you face. 

First, think about the number of trucks you want to insure. Some insurers are better for fleet insurance than others. 

Next, consider the cargo you want to transport (another element insurance policies will sometimes cover). Most policies protect you against standard losses, but you may need to pay more to transport extremely valuable or sensitive items. 

The routes taken and the distances you travel also play a role. The more miles covered on challenging, accident-prone roads, the higher your premiums will be. 

Lastly, consider the size of your business. Sometimes you can get discounts by arranging multiple policies with a single carrier. These reduce overall costs significantly while providing additional coverage. 

Compare insurers

Once you know your requirements, the next step is to compare insurers. This helps ensure any carrier you choose is a reasonable match for your business. 

Start by looking for evidence of financial stability. You want an insurer who can pay you, even if your business experiences heavy losses. Moody’s and Standard & Poor provide ratings information to gauge the health of carriers you might consider. 

Also, check if the insurer offers the coverage options you want. You need a carrier able to protect your firm against the losses it is most likely to experience. Common coverage includes: 

  • Bodily injury or damages you cause to others
  • Protection of cargo against damage and theft
  • Coverage for using trucks out-of-hours (non-trucking cover)
  • Physical and collision damage to vehicles you own
  • Cover for hauling third-party trailers

Finally, check if the insurer offers reasonable customer service. Call them to see if they answer quickly and deal with you politely. 

If you aren’t sure about a specific insurer, check online reviews to see what other trucking companies say about them. The more positive appraisals you can find, the better the service is likely to be. Most reputable firms have Google and Trustpilot reviews you can explore. 

When comparing insurance, don’t just look at the premiums. Also, consider the factors discussed above. For instance, does the carrier offer enough insurance for your needs? And do they charge large deductibles that might be hard for your brand to afford? 

If there are policy limits, question them. Ask whether the risk of exceeding them is acceptable. 

Reviewing policy terms regularly

Lastly, be sure to review policy terms regularly. Trucking companies sometimes get burned because they believe they have suitable cover when they don’t. 

When you take out an insurance policy, the carrier will provide documents explaining what your policy covers and how to make a claim. Check the small print carefully with each new policy document you receive to ensure coverage remains sufficient. 

Contact us to Start Saving on Truck Insurance!

If you want to get the best truck insurance policy possible, contact our team. As independent brokers, we shop the market to find you the best deal on quality insurance!

So call us today at  (610) 775-3848 or contact us online to start saving. 

 

Tags: Commercial Vehicle Insurance, truck insurance

Cost Factors of Landlord Insurance

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Sep 14, 2024

Contact us for the lowest cost on landlord insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Lancaster, Allentown, Lebanon, Reading, and throughout Pennsylvania.

Landlord insurance is essential for anyone who rents out property. 

But how much does it cost? That’s the big question. 

Fortunately, this article provides answers. We explore how insurers calculate premiums and the factors that influence how much you will ultimately pay. By the end, you should understand what you can afford. 

Premium calculation

Premium calculations begin with a thorough property assessment. Insurers inspect structures to determine how much rebuilding will cost in case of serious damage or a fire. 

Next, they ask you the amount of coverage you need. Some landlords require more than others, so it is always a personal decision. If you go to an insurance broker, they will give you quotes from assorted carriers. You can use these to determine insurers offering the best risk-reward. 

During this process, insurance companies calculate the effect of deductibles (discussed below). Usually, you have a choice of how much you want to contribute to the cost of repairs (should they become necessary). 

The last step is to review the policy terms and decide if you are happy with them. If you are, sign on the dotted line. 

The average cost is around $1,895 annually. However, you may pay more, depending on your circumstances.

Influencing factors

Numerous behind-the-scenes actors determine the cost of landlord insurance (similar to other insurance policies), including: 

  • Property Location

Property location is one aspect that can affect insurance costs substantially. Areas prone to natural diseases (like flooding or wildfires) usually command a higher premium than those in safer regions. Other factors, like crime, can also play a role. 

  • Property Value

The value of the property can also affect the cost of landlord insurance. The costlier it is, the higher the premiums (similar to car insurance). 

Multi-family homes and larger developments are at risk of higher costs because of the valuation effect. However, insurers sometimes charge more for older properties if they believe they have a higher risk of damage or liability. 

  • Deductible

You can occasionally lower your monthly insurance premiums by raising your deductible. The more you are willing to contribute, the lower the perceived risk by the insurer. However, if you make a claim, you have to pay more. And that can increase overall costs. 

  • Coverage Amount

Coverage amount also affects landlord insurance premiums. The more protection you want, the higher the premium. 

For example, expect to pay extra for things like loss of rental income or liability coverage. 

  • Tenant Type 

Lastly, insurance premiums can sometimes vary by tenant type. Insurers often view renting to students and short-term renters as risky because they have reduced incentives to avoid property damage. 

By contrast, long-term renters (with professional qualifications) often have lower risk profiles. These individuals are less likely to cause damage, keeping costs down. 

Once insurers have these details, they can enter them into the actuarial tables and calculate the risk you pose. Then, they can use this information to calculate a suitable premium. 

Contact us to Save on Landlord Insurance

If you are looking for a great price on landlord insurance, contact our team today! As independent brokers, we shop the market to find you the best deal on quality insurance!

So call American Insuring Group today at  (610) 775-3848 or contact us online to start saving.

 

Tags: Landlord Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance

Builder’s Risk Insurance: Are You Covered?

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Sep 07, 2024

Contact us for builders risk insurance in Philadelphia, Lancaster, Erie, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Allentown, Reading, and throughout PA.

Builder’s risk cover is a type of contractor insurance that applies during construction. It’s essential for builders wanting to avoid on-site losses. 

However, it can be confusing. Therefore, this post explores what builder’s risk insurance covers, how lenders package it, and the exclusions/limitations you can expect when taking out a policy. 

What it covers

Builder’s risk insurance covers various losses and damages that can occur on construction sites during projects. However, policies can vary significantly. Some are comprehensive (meaning they cover nearly all losses), while others are more specific. 

Items builder’s risk insurance can cover include: 

  • Theft
  • Property damage
  • Arson
  • Damage to materials in transit to the building site
  • Removal of debris
  • Backed-up sewers and drainage systems
  • Damage by hail or wind
  • Collapse risk

However, don’t take this list as gospel. Always check the policy wording to see if the insurer includes all the coverage you want. Sometimes, you can ask them for additional coverage in exchange for higher premiums. 

Project-specific coverage

Some builder’s risk insurance policies provide blanket protection throughout the year. These are helpful for contractors involved in numerous residential and commercial projects (i.e. 25 or more annually), reducing paperwork and streamlining applications. 

However, you can get a “single policy” for new construction and remodeling projects. These are helpful when you want builder’s risk insurance as a one-off and only want to cover a single site. 

Builder’s risk insurers will cover several project types, depending on your requirements. However, you must provide them with this information upfront.

Most contractors opt for builder’s risk insurance to cover new constructions. These can include home and apartment developments, condo buildings, and duplexes. It is also available on commercial projects. 

Another type, remodeling builder’s risk insurance, applies when changing a building’s function or structure. For example, you could get insurance if you add a mezzanine level to a living area or extend a building. 

Lastly, you can sometimes get installation-related builder’s risk insurance. Unlike a complete remodel, this covers single fixtures and fittings, like cabinets or awnings. 

Exclusions and limitations

Unfortunately, builder’s risk insurance won’t protect you against everything. As such, you may need to add other insurance products to your stack. 

Like most insurance offerings, builder’s risk insurance doesn’t protect against force majeure. It won’t pay out for acts of war, terrorism, or other government actions (like property confiscation). 

It also doesn’t cover contractor or employee injuries – one of the most common building site claims. For this, you will need workers' compensation and public liability insurance. 

Other exclusions can include: 

  • Extreme geological events, like earthquakes
  • Intentional acts of destruction
  • Damage due to preventable design flaws or plans
  • Vehicle damage 
  • Depreciation

Contact Us Today to Save on Builder's Risk Insurance!

Still confused? Contact American Insuring Group for the best rates on builder’s risk insurance. As independent brokers, we shop the market to find you the best deal on quality insurance! So call us today at (610) 775-3848 or click here to start saving. 

Tags: Builders Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance, Builders Risk Insurance

Tips to Reduce Falls on Construction Sites

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Aug 24, 2024

Tips to Reduce Falls on Construction Sites -1000

Every year, 34% of all deaths on construction sites are attributable to falls, more than any other category. And whenever this happens, it is a tragedy for everyone involved, from owners to families of the deceased. However, construction insurance can protect against liability claims. Coverage compensates victims (if injured) or their next of kin if they die, letting you keep more money in your pocket.  

Of course, as a company manager or business owner, your goal is to reduce slips, trips and falls on your construction site as much as possible. You want to keep it safe for everyone. 

But how can you do that effectively? Let’s find out. 

Ensure Workers Wear Full Body Harnesses While Working Above Six Feet

The first (and most obvious) safety precaution is to get workers to wear full-body harnesses when working over six feet (as recommended by the OHSA). Reins should connect to an anchor point using tough nylon cords and feature deceleration devices that break falls if workers plummet to the ground. 

Guard Or Cover Holes, Opening, And Skylights

You also want to take precautions around any building features workers could fall through, such as holes, openings, and skylights as a construction site manager. Covering them with safe equipment is the best option and eliminates the possibility of tumbles. 

If you can’t do that, use guardrail systems to protect trips. Even if workers slip, they can grab onto bars instead of falling into a gap. 

Mark Hazardous Areas

At the same time, mark hazardous areas to make them more conspicuous for workers. Bright paint, warning signs, stickers, or additional lighting can help reduce risk. Site managers should communicate these known hazards to workers and explain their danger. Staff should understand the reasons for the safety precautions. 

Develop A Training Plan

You should also develop a training plan alongside any physical measures you implement to improve safety. Teaching employees about the risks they face helps them understand how to conduct themselves on-site safely. 

Training plans should include: 

  • Talking about how the job will be done
  • How to use safety equipment
  • The essential safety equipment for specific types of works
  • Mitigation strategies (such as covering skylights and leading edges)
  • The value of fall prevention or mitigation systems

Keep Sites Clean And Organized

Finally, construction managers can reduce the risk of falls on construction sites by keeping them clean and clutter-free. Removing debris from walkways and clearing up spills promptly can protect workers and stop them from slipping or tripping over things. 

Be particularly mindful of power cords for machine tools. These are a significant hazard because workers can’t always correct themselves when they feel like they are about to fall. 

Once you start implementing these methods, you’ll notice the culture of your staff changes. Focusing on safety reduces risk-taking and subsequent claims against you while improving worker well-being. 

The Best Rates on Contractor Insurance

Contact American Insuring Group for the best rates on contractor and workers’ compensation insurance. As independent brokers, we shop the market to find you the best rates on quality insurance for contractors, construction companies, and builders. Contact us online or call (610) 775-3848 today!

 

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, Construction Insurance, Contractor Insurance