Construction sites are busy, high-risk environments where even the best-run projects can face accidents, weather damage, or third-party losses. When something goes wrong, knowing how to navigate the claims process under your contractor, construction, or builders policy helps keep your project on schedule and your budget intact. Below is a concise guide to help contractors, project owners, and risk managers move a claim from incident to indemnity as smoothly as possible.
Steps to File a Claim
Ensure Immediate Safety and Mitigation: Before starting the paperwork, secure the site to prevent any potential hazards. Shut down unsafe operations, cordon off the affected areas, and arrange for emergency repairs or temporary protection.
- Notify Your Broker and Insurer Right Away:
Contact your insurance broker by phone or email as soon as the incident is under control. The broker will alert the carrier, start the loss notice, and explain any policy-specific procedures.
- Complete the Loss Notice Form:
Provide the project name and address, date and time of loss, parties involved, detailed description of damage or injury, and an initial cost estimate.
- Meet the Adjuster On-Site:
The insurer will assign an adjuster to inspect damage, verify scope, and confirm policy terms.
- Obtain Authorizations and Quotes:
The adjuster may require at least two repair quotes or a schedule of values from trade contractors. For equipment losses, you may need depreciation tables or proof of replacement cost.
- Document All Costs During Restoration:
Track labor hours, materials, rental equipment, and soft costs, including site security and professional fees.
- Review the Settlement Offer:
Once the adjuster finalizes quantum, you’ll receive a proposed payout minus any deductible. Verify that mark-ups, overhead, and delay costs are included.
- Receive Payment and Close the File: Sign the proof of loss, complete any hold-harmless agreements, and the insurer will release funds, often via EFT.
Required Documentation
- Incident Report: Supervisor’s narrative, witness statements, and safety logs
- Photographs & Video: Time-stamped images of damage from multiple angles
- Contract Documents: Drawings, specifications, change orders, and schedules
- Invoices & Receipts: Labor, materials, equipment rentals, and professional services
- Maintenance Records: Proof of inspections or preventive maintenance, if relevant
- Correspondence: Emails or letters between contractors, consultants, and owners
- Permits & Regulatory Reports: Any municipal notices or workplace safety filings
Meticulous record-keeping speeds claim approval and reduces the risk of underpayment or denial.
Timely Reporting Benefits
- Preserves Coverage Rights: Most construction policies have strict notification periods—often 30 days for builder’s risk and as little as 72 hours for pollution incidents. Late reporting can void coverage.
- Limits Loss Escalation: Early involvement of adjusters means faster authorization for critical repairs, reducing downtime and consequential damages.
- Improves Cash Flow: The sooner you file, the sooner progress payments arrive, preventing strain on project financing.
- Strengthens Relationships: Prompt, transparent communication fosters trust with insurers and demonstrates your commitment to risk management.
Follow a structured claims process, gather the necessary evidence, and act quickly. Construction professionals can convert a stressful incident into a recoverable event and keep their projects moving forward with minimal disruption.
Contact Us Today to Save on Construction Insurance
Do you have questions? Contact American Insuring Group for the best rates on construction 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.