Who buys builder's risk insurance?

It depends on the contract. Sometimes the owner buys it, sometimes the general contractor. The contract's insurance section usually says which.

What is completed operations coverage?

Part of general liability that responds to injury or damage caused by your work after the project is finished. Some contracts require you to keep it in place for years after completion.

Industry guide

Insurance for construction companies

Construction companies carry their own risks and inherit their subcontractors'. Insurance questions include who is responsible for the structure while it is being built, whether subcontractors carry the coverage your contracts require, and whether your liability limits keep pace with larger projects.

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Where insurance questions come from

Projects under construction
Damage to a building while it is being built is commonly addressed by builder's risk coverage, bought by the owner or the contractor depending on the contract.
Subcontractor risk transfer
Contracts, certificates, and additional insured endorsements decide whose policy responds when a subcontractor's work causes a loss.
Larger projects and contracts
Owners and lenders often require higher limits, umbrella coverage, and per-project aggregates.
Heavy equipment
Owned, leased, and rented equipment is usually covered by contractor's equipment (inland marine) coverage.

Coverage that commonly comes up

General Liability InsuranceIncluding per-project aggregates and completed operations.
Workers' Compensation InsurancePayroll, class codes, and uninsured subcontractor exposure.
Commercial Auto InsurancePickups, dump trucks, and equipment trailers.
Commercial Property InsuranceYour office, shop, and yard.
Professional Liability Insurance (E&O)For design-build and construction management work.

This page is general information about how these policies commonly work. Every policy's own forms, endorsements, and exclusions decide what it covers. For advice about your business, talk with a licensed insurance agent.

Paperwork customers and contracts ask for

Certificates of insurance for general contractors and property owners
Additional insured and waiver of subrogation endorsements
Workers' compensation certificates from your subcontractors
Vehicle and equipment schedules
Builder's risk policies or certificates for each project
Subcontract agreements with insurance requirements

Keep these together in your PolicyChecked account, so you can answer a certificate request in minutes.

Before your renewal or your next contract

What to check on your own policy

Per-project aggregate and completed operations coverage
Builder's risk responsibility in each contract
Subcontractor certificate tracking, including expiration dates
Umbrella or excess limits compared with project requirements
Rented and leased equipment coverage

Not sure what your policy says?

Upload your declarations page. The free AI coverage check lists your coverages, limits, and deductibles in plain language and flags items to discuss with a licensed agent.

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Construction Companies: common questions

Other industries we work with

Know what you're covered for before you need it.

Check your coverage free in about a minute, then talk with a licensed agent about anything you want to change or quote.