Self build insurance - Revision history

Designing Buildings at 07:21, 9 December 2021

2021-12-09T07:21:38Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:21, 9 December 2021
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	--[[User:Stephen_G_Hegarty\|Stephen G Hegarty]]		--[[User:Stephen_G_Hegarty\|Stephen G Hegarty]]

−	= Related articles on Designing Buildings ~~Wiki~~ =	+	= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

	* CDM 2015.		* CDM 2015.
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	* Kit house.		* Kit house.
	* Self-build home.		* Self-build home.
		+	* Self insurance.

	[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Planning_permission]] [[Category:Client_procedures]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]] [[Category:Roles_/_services]]		[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Planning_permission]] [[Category:Client_procedures]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]] [[Category:Roles_/_services]]

Designing Buildings at 12:11, 18 February 2021

2021-02-18T12:11:46Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:11, 18 February 2021
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	= Existing structures =		= Existing structures =

−	For an extension or a renovation, it is also important to protect ~~this~~ property during the project. Most UK household insurers will not maintain, extend or hold insurance cover whilst work is being carried out on the property, particularly if that work is structural. If the property is also unoccupied, most UK household insurers will either restrict cover heavily or even withdraw all cover until occupied again.	+	For an extension or a renovation, it is also important to protect the existing property during the project. Most UK household insurers will not maintain, extend or hold insurance cover whilst work is being carried out on the property, particularly if that work is structural. If the property is also unoccupied, most UK household insurers will either restrict cover heavily or even withdraw all cover until occupied again.

	Insurance for existing structures is generally available on either a restricted cover basis, or full all risks basis – again depending on the project and property. Separate standalone cover can be arranged from various insurers whilst the property is under renovation.		Insurance for existing structures is generally available on either a restricted cover basis, or full all risks basis – again depending on the project and property. Separate standalone cover can be arranged from various insurers whilst the property is under renovation.
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	= Equipment cover =		= Equipment cover =

−	If contractors are using their own machinery and tools, owned or hired-in, it is best to ensure they insure these items, or even better, remove them for site overnight or when not in use to prevent attracting ~~potential~~ attention of thieves.	+	If contractors are using their own machinery and tools, owned or hired-in, it is best to ensure they insure these items, or even better, remove them for site overnight or when not in use to prevent attracting the attention of thieves.

	If the owner is hiring any plant or tools in their own name, these shoudl be insured with the hirer or with the contract works insurance previously mentioned.		If the owner is hiring any plant or tools in their own name, these shoudl be insured with the hirer or with the contract works insurance previously mentioned.
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	= Structural warranty =		= Structural warranty =

−	Once a new build project is complete, a structural warranty insurance policy can be placed for a period of 10 or 12 years. Its main purpose is to cover the property against latent and structural defects. Cover includes surveyor visits at set periods of the project to make sure work is done to the correct standard.	+	Once a new build project is complete, a structural warranty insurance policy can be placed for a period of 10 or 12 years. Its main purpose is to cover the property against latent defects and structural defects. Cover includes surveyor visits at set periods of the project to make sure work is done to the correct standard.

	If there is the chance the propert will be sold within the first 10 years, a structural warranty is required – the buyers’ mortgage provider will normally insist on one from an insurer that is on the CML approved list (Council of Mortgage Lenders).		If there is the chance the propert will be sold within the first 10 years, a structural warranty is required – the buyers’ mortgage provider will normally insist on one from an insurer that is on the CML approved list (Council of Mortgage Lenders).
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	Some builders offer a complete design and build or design and construct service where all elements of the project are managed and performed by the principal contractor. The risk of financial loss resulting from incorrect design or specification, professional services in general, is covered by professional indemnity insurance.		Some builders offer a complete design and build or design and construct service where all elements of the project are managed and performed by the principal contractor. The risk of financial loss resulting from incorrect design or specification, professional services in general, is covered by professional indemnity insurance.

−	Architects, surveyors and engineers typically hold this type of insurance to protect them from claims of professional negligence – this can apply to any of the aforementioned risks as well as others as defined by the UK courts (duty to warn, matters of buildability).	+	Architects, surveyors and engineers typically hold this type of insurance to protect them from claims of professional negligence – this can apply to any of the aforementioned risks as well as others as defined by the UK courts (duty to warn, matters of buildability and so on).

	It is important that any professionals involved in the project hold this type of insurance for the services they provide and to the extent and cover limit required		It is important that any professionals involved in the project hold this type of insurance for the services they provide and to the extent and cover limit required
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	* CDM 2015.		* CDM 2015.
	* Contractors' all-risk insurance.		* Contractors' all-risk insurance.
		+	* Custom-build home.
	* Insurance for building design and construction.		* Insurance for building design and construction.
	* JCT.		* JCT.
		+	* Kit house.
		+	* Self-build home.

	[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Planning_permission]] [[Category:Client_procedures]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]] [[Category:Roles_/_services]]		[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Planning_permission]] [[Category:Client_procedures]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]] [[Category:Roles_/_services]]

Designing Buildings at 12:06, 18 February 2021

2021-02-18T12:06:53Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:06, 18 February 2021
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	Deciding to build, renovate or extend a property involves a lot of planning, and the risks associated with such a project are quite varied and diverse. It is a serious investment that requires the protection of the right insurance package and specialist risk and insurance advice from a construction professional.		Deciding to build, renovate or extend a property involves a lot of planning, and the risks associated with such a project are quite varied and diverse. It is a serious investment that requires the protection of the right insurance package and specialist risk and insurance advice from a construction professional.

−	There are a number of online ~~‘self~~-~~build’~~ insurance ~~‘products’~~ that can be purchased with a minimal question-set and with little or no advice around how to assess risk, legal duties, which aspects are insurable and options as to how to transfer the risk in a cost efficient way.	+	There are a number of online self-build insurance products that can be purchased with a minimal question-set and with little or no advice around how to assess risk, legal duties, which aspects are insurable and options as to how to transfer the risk in a cost efficient way.

	= Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 =		= Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 =

−	The first thing to consider when looking to manage a renovation, extension or a completely new build is awareness of the CDM Regulations and how they apply to the project. Unless experienced in the construction industry, most people are unaware that since 2015, these regulations ~~now~~ apply to all UK construction sites, regardless of size or value.	+	The first thing to consider when looking to manage a renovation, extension or a completely new build is awareness of the CDM Regulations and how they apply to the project. Unless experienced in the construction industry, most people are unaware that since 2015, these regulations apply to all UK construction sites, regardless of size or value.

	The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (referred to as CDM) are the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of UK construction projects and apply to all building and construction work. This includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair and maintenance.		The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (referred to as CDM) are the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of UK construction projects and apply to all building and construction work. This includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair and maintenance.
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	* The client ensures that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to the health and safety of those who may be affected.		* The client ensures that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to the health and safety of those who may be affected.
−	* The principal designer manages health and safety in the pre-construction phase of a project. ~~The~~ role extends to the construction phase through the principal designer's duties to liaise with the principal contractor and ongoing design work	+	* The principal designer manages health and safety in the pre-construction phase of a project. This role extends to the construction phase through the principal designer's duties to liaise with the principal contractor and ongoing design work
	* The principal contractor manages the construction phase of a project. This involves liaising with the client and principal designer throughout the project, including during the pre-construction phase.		* The principal contractor manages the construction phase of a project. This involves liaising with the client and principal designer throughout the project, including during the pre-construction phase.

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	= Phases of work =		= Phases of work =

−	There are three important phases of a project: before, during and after construction or building work.	+	There are three important phases of a project: before, during and after construction or building work:

−	~~They are outlined as -~~	+	* The pre-construction phase: the inception, design and planning stage of a project (before the construction or building work starts), although it is acknowledged, design and planning continues into and through the construction phase.
−		+	* The construction phase: the start-to-finish stage of the construction or building work.
−	* ~~the~~ pre-construction phase: the inception, design and planning stage of a project (before the construction or building work starts), although it is acknowledged, design and planning continues into and through the construction phase.	+	* The post-construction phase: the practical completion of the construction or building work, including handover.
−	* ~~the~~ construction phase: the start-to-finish stage of the construction or building work.	+
−	* ~~the~~ post-construction phase: the practical completion of the construction or building work, including handover.	+

	Designers and contractors should be appointed at the earliest opportunity to help prepare and plan your project. Experience has shown that, when designers and contractors are involved early in the project, everyone is better able to plan ahead and solve problems together to deliver a more successful project.		Designers and contractors should be appointed at the earliest opportunity to help prepare and plan your project. Experience has shown that, when designers and contractors are involved early in the project, everyone is better able to plan ahead and solve problems together to deliver a more successful project.
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	For the client (or employer), the next key question is whether to put a formal contract in place with the contractor and possibly the designer too. Contracts can help all parties agree and clarify insurance responsibilities for a project.		For the client (or employer), the next key question is whether to put a formal contract in place with the contractor and possibly the designer too. Contracts can help all parties agree and clarify insurance responsibilities for a project.

−	Contracts for all types of projects are available from various sources (e.g. JCT, trade associations), however, it may be helpful to get professional legal advice when considering which contract is most suitable for the project.	+	Contracts for all types of projects are available from various sources (e.g. JCT, trade associations and so on), however, it may be helpful to get professional legal advice when considering which contract is most suitable for the project.

	The JCT Minor Works Building Contract (Minor Works) is designed for smaller, basic construction projects where the work is of a simple nature. The insurance provisions are therefore shorter and simpler than those in other contract forms, such as the JCT Design & Build Contract. However, it is still very important to carefully consider the insurance provisions contained in Section 5 of this contract form and ensure project requirements are met.		The JCT Minor Works Building Contract (Minor Works) is designed for smaller, basic construction projects where the work is of a simple nature. The insurance provisions are therefore shorter and simpler than those in other contract forms, such as the JCT Design & Build Contract. However, it is still very important to carefully consider the insurance provisions contained in Section 5 of this contract form and ensure project requirements are met.
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	= Insurance Options =		= Insurance Options =

−	Once a plot of land for a new build project has been purchased you have a legal duty of care and are legally responsible for it. These are the different types of coverage available.	+	Once a plot of land for a new build project has been purchased you have a legal duty of care and are legally responsible for it. These are the different types of coverage available for this.

	== Public liability ==		== Public liability ==
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	Most contractors already carry public liability insurance, however this doesn’t apply if the owner is found at fault for an incident on site unless there is a contract in place to make the contractor responsible for insuring against third party injury and property damage for the duration of the project.		Most contractors already carry public liability insurance, however this doesn’t apply if the owner is found at fault for an incident on site unless there is a contract in place to make the contractor responsible for insuring against third party injury and property damage for the duration of the project.

−	It is not unusual for public liability insurance limits of £5 or £10 million to be carried or requested ~~for public liability insurance~~. The cost of injury claims on construction sites in the UK can currently reach as much as £25 million.	+	It is not unusual for public liability insurance limits of £5 or £10 million to be carried or requested. The cost of injury claims on construction sites in the UK can currently reach as much as £25 million.

	== Employers' liability insurance ==		== Employers' liability insurance ==
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	== Contract works (or contractors all risk) insurance ==		== Contract works (or contractors all risk) insurance ==

−	This insurance is designed to cover ~~the~~ new works - materials, fixtures and fittings involved in the project on an all risks basis. Correctly and comprehensively insuring the project from start to finish is a key part of managing the risk of any building project. There is also a high risk of site theft of tools and materials as well as malicious damage.	+	This insurance is designed to cover new works - materials, fixtures and fittings involved in the project on an all risks basis. Correctly and comprehensively insuring the project from start to finish is a key part of managing the risk of any building project. There is also a high risk of site theft of tools and materials as well as malicious damage.

−	Contract works cover includes weather events such as storm and water damage as the property is unlikely to be completely weatherproof and secure. Risks of fire and water escape are also common for project nearing completion ~~and as internal fit-out is completed~~.	+	Contract works cover includes weather events such as storm and water damage as the property is unlikely to be completely weatherproof and secure. Risks of fire and water escape are also common for a project nearing completion.

−	Sometimes policy limits and conditions are insufficient. Sometimes banks or loan financiers will request their interest ~~to be~~ noted on the contract works insurance to protect their financial investment.	+	Sometimes policy limits and conditions are insufficient. Sometimes banks or loan financiers will request their interest are noted on the contract works insurance to protect their financial investment.

	= Existing structures =		= Existing structures =

Editor at 11:58, 30 October 2020

2020-10-30T11:58:53Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:58, 30 October 2020
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	Legal indemnity insurance can be taken out to protect developers and property owners against potential legal problem arising from these issues.		Legal indemnity insurance can be taken out to protect developers and property owners against potential legal problem arising from these issues.
		+
		+	--[[User:Stephen_G_Hegarty\|Stephen G Hegarty]]

	= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =		= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

Editor at 11:54, 30 October 2020

2020-10-30T11:54:41Z

Show changes

Editor at 11:37, 30 October 2020

2020-10-30T11:37:34Z

Show changes

Editor at 11:22, 30 October 2020

2020-10-30T11:22:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:22, 30 October 2020
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	The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (referred to as CDM) are the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of UK construction projects and apply to all building and construction work. This includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair and maintenance.		The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (referred to as CDM) are the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of UK construction projects and apply to all building and construction work. This includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair and maintenance.

−	The CDM Regulations place responsibility for managing the health and safety of a construction project on three main duty holders ~~as outlined below.~~	+	The CDM Regulations place responsibility for managing the health and safety of a construction project on three main duty holders:

	* The client ensures that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to the health and safety of those who may be affected.		* The client ensures that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to the health and safety of those who may be affected.
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	* The principal contractor manages the construction phase of a project. This involves liaising with the client and principal designer throughout the project, including during the pre-construction phase.		* The principal contractor manages the construction phase of a project. This involves liaising with the client and principal designer throughout the project, including during the pre-construction phase.

−	~~Depending upon~~ the ~~nature~~ of ~~the~~ project, the ~~principal designer and principal contractor may be supported by designers, sub-contractors and workers~~.	+	For the successful delivery of a project, good working relationships between the duty holders are essential from the start. The client has overall responsibility for the successful management of the project and is supported by the principal designer and principal contractor in different phases of the project. Depending upon the nature of the project, the principal designer and principal contractor may be supported by designers, sub-contractors and workers.
−		+
−	The client has overall responsibility for the successful management of the project and is supported by the principal designer and principal contractor in different phases of the project.	+
−		+
−	~~For~~ the ~~successful delivery~~ of a project, ~~good working relationships between~~ the ~~duty holders are essential from the start~~.	+

	= Phases of work =		= Phases of work =

Editor at 10:55, 30 October 2020

2020-10-30T10:55:04Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:55, 30 October 2020
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	The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (referred to as CDM) are the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of UK construction projects and apply to all building and construction work. This includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair and maintenance.		The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (referred to as CDM) are the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of UK construction projects and apply to all building and construction work. This includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair and maintenance.

−	The CDM ~~regulations~~ place responsibility for managing the health and safety of a construction project on three main duty holders as outlined below.	+	The CDM Regulations place responsibility for managing the health and safety of a construction project on three main duty holders as outlined below.
−		+
−	~~The client has overall responsibility for the successful management of the project and is supported by the principal designer and principal contractor in different phases of the project.~~	+
−		+
−	~~For the successful delivery of a project, good working relationships between the duty holders are essential from the start~~.	+

	* The client ensures that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to the health and safety of those who may be affected.		* The client ensures that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to the health and safety of those who may be affected.
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	Depending upon the nature of the project, the principal designer and principal contractor may be supported by designers, sub-contractors and workers.		Depending upon the nature of the project, the principal designer and principal contractor may be supported by designers, sub-contractors and workers.
		+
		+	The client has overall responsibility for the successful management of the project and is supported by the principal designer and principal contractor in different phases of the project.
		+
		+	For the successful delivery of a project, good working relationships between the duty holders are essential from the start.
		+
		+	= Phases of work =

	There are three important phases of a project: before, during and after construction or building work.		There are three important phases of a project: before, during and after construction or building work.
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	They are outlined as -		They are outlined as -

−	• the pre-construction phase: the inception, design and planning stage of a project (before the construction or building work starts), although it is acknowledged, design and planning continues into and through the construction phase.	+	* the pre-construction phase: the inception, design and planning stage of a project (before the construction or building work starts), although it is acknowledged, design and planning continues into and through the construction phase.
−		+	* the construction phase: the start-to-finish stage of the construction or building work.
−	• the construction phase: the start-to-finish stage of the construction or building work.	+	* the post-construction phase: the practical completion of the construction or building work, including handover.
−		+
−	• the post-construction phase: the practical completion of the construction or building work, including handover.	+

	Designers and contractors should be appointed at the earliest opportunity to help prepare and plan your project. You should also get involved so you can give your views as and when required.		Designers and contractors should be appointed at the earliest opportunity to help prepare and plan your project. You should also get involved so you can give your views as and when required.
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	Even the simplest tasks, such as arranging routine maintenance or minor building work, require adequate time to plan and manage the work safely.		Even the simplest tasks, such as arranging routine maintenance or minor building work, require adequate time to plan and manage the work safely.

−	~~We have a CDM Pack of helpful documents to help you understand your responsibilities under these important regulations.~~	+	= The right insurance =
−		+
−	=~~= Insurance for your Project – the~~ right insurance ~~product and cover~~ ==	+
−		+
−	~~Now the CDM roles have been clarified, we can now discuss how best to insure your project.~~	+
−		+
−	At this stage, packaged insurance products are useful in combining the various elements of cover required, but we would always advise you to seek the advice of a construction specialist broker on which product and cover options are best for you and your project to prevent underinsurance, gaps in cover and dual insurances.	+
−		+
−	~~If you are the ‘client’ (or employer), the next key question is whether you intend putting a formal contract in place between you, the ‘contractor’ and possibly the ‘designer’ too.~~	+

−	Contracts for all types of projects are available from various sources (e.g. JCT, trade associations), however ~~we would recommend that you seek appropriate~~ professional legal advice when considering which contract is most suitable for ~~your~~ project.	+	For the client (or employer), the next key question is whether to put a formal contract in place with the contractor and possibly the designer too. Contracts for all types of projects are available from various sources (e.g. JCT, trade associations), however, it may be helpful to get professional legal advice when considering which contract is most suitable for the project.

	Contracts can help all parties agree and clarify insurance responsibilities for a project. They certainly help us understand the insuring responsibilities on a project and ensure we provide the right advice.		Contracts can help all parties agree and clarify insurance responsibilities for a project. They certainly help us understand the insuring responsibilities on a project and ensure we provide the right advice.

Editor at 10:50, 30 October 2020

2020-10-30T10:50:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:50, 30 October 2020
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−	= ~~Self-build Projects~~ =	+	= Introduction =

−	Deciding to build, renovate or extend a property involves a lot of planning and the risks associated with such a project are quite varied and diverse. It is a serious investment that requires the protection of the right insurance package and specialist risk and insurance advice from a construction professional.	+	Deciding to build, renovate or extend a property involves a lot of planning, and the risks associated with such a project are quite varied and diverse. It is a serious investment that requires the protection of the right insurance package and specialist risk and insurance advice from a construction professional.

−	There are a number of online ‘self-build’ insurance ‘products’ that can be purchased with a minimal question-set and with little or no advice around how to assess risk, ~~your~~ legal duties, which aspects are insurable and ~~your~~ options as to how ~~you can effectively~~ transfer the risk in a cost efficient way.	+	There are a number of online ‘self-build’ insurance ‘products’ that can be purchased with a minimal question-set and with little or no advice around how to assess risk, legal duties, which aspects are insurable and options as to how to transfer the risk in a cost efficient way.

−	~~If something does happen, it is important that you have the support of a broker throughout the claim process to ensure your losses are covered in the most cost-efficient way.~~	+	= Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 =

−	The first thing ~~we discuss with clients~~ looking to manage a renovation, extension or a completely new build is awareness of the CDM Regulations and how they apply to the project.	+	The first thing to consider when looking to manage a renovation, extension or a completely new build is awareness of the CDM Regulations and how they apply to the project. Unless experienced in the construction industry, most people are unaware that since 2015, these regulations now apply to all UK construction sites, regardless of size or value.

−	~~Unless experienced in the construction industry, most people are unaware that since 2015, these regulations now apply to all UK construction sites, regardless of size or value.~~	+	The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (referred to as CDM) are the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of UK construction projects and apply to all building and construction work. This includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair and maintenance.
−		+
−	~~== Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 ==~~	+
−		+
−	The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (referred to as CDM) are the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of UK construction projects and apply to all building and construction work ~~and~~ includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair and maintenance.	+

	The CDM regulations place responsibility for managing the health and safety of a construction project on three main duty holders as outlined below.		The CDM regulations place responsibility for managing the health and safety of a construction project on three main duty holders as outlined below.
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	For the successful delivery of a project, good working relationships between the duty holders are essential from the start.		For the successful delivery of a project, good working relationships between the duty holders are essential from the start.

−	• The client ensures that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to the health and safety of those who may be affected.	+	* The client ensures that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to the health and safety of those who may be affected.
−		+	* The principal designer manages health and safety in the pre-construction phase of a project. The role extends to the construction phase through the principal designer's duties to liaise with the principal contractor and ongoing design work
−	• The principal designer manages health and safety in the pre-construction phase of a project. The role extends to the construction phase through the principal designer's duties to liaise with the principal contractor and ongoing design work	+	* The principal contractor manages the construction phase of a project. This involves liaising with the client and principal designer throughout the project, including during the pre-construction phase.
−		+
−	• The principal contractor manages the construction phase of a project. This involves liaising with the client and principal designer throughout the project, including during the pre-construction phase.	+

	Depending upon the nature of the project, the principal designer and principal contractor may be supported by designers, sub-contractors and workers.		Depending upon the nature of the project, the principal designer and principal contractor may be supported by designers, sub-contractors and workers.

Stephen G Hegarty: Created page with "= Self-build Projects = Deciding to build, renovate or extend a property involves a lot of planning and the risks associated with such a project are quite varied and diverse. It..."

2020-10-02T09:07:11Z

Created page with "= Self-build Projects = Deciding to build, renovate or extend a property involves a lot of planning and the risks associated with such a project are quite varied and diverse. It..."

New page

= Self-build Projects =

Deciding to build, renovate or extend a property involves a lot of planning and the risks associated with such a project are quite varied and diverse. It is a serious investment that requires the protection of the right insurance package and specialist risk and insurance advice from a construction professional.

There are a number of online ‘self-build’ insurance ‘products’ that can be purchased with a minimal question-set and with little or no advice around how to assess risk, your legal duties, which aspects are insurable and your options as to how you can effectively transfer the risk in a cost efficient way.

If something does happen, it is important that you have the support of a broker throughout the claim process to ensure your losses are covered in the most cost-efficient way.

The first thing we discuss with clients looking to manage a renovation, extension or a completely new build is awareness of the CDM Regulations and how they apply to the project.

Unless experienced in the construction industry, most people are unaware that since 2015, these regulations now apply to all UK construction sites, regardless of size or value.

== Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 ==

The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (referred to as CDM) are the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of UK construction projects and apply to all building and construction work and includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair and maintenance.

The CDM regulations place responsibility for managing the health and safety of a construction project on three main duty holders as outlined below.

The client has overall responsibility for the successful management of the project and is supported by the principal designer and principal contractor in different phases of the project.

For the successful delivery of a project, good working relationships between the duty holders are essential from the start.

• The client ensures that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to the health and safety of those who may be affected.

• The principal designer manages health and safety in the pre-construction phase of a project. The role extends to the construction phase through the principal designer's duties to liaise with the principal contractor and ongoing design work

• The principal contractor manages the construction phase of a project. This involves liaising with the client and principal designer throughout the project, including during the pre-construction phase.

Depending upon the nature of the project, the principal designer and principal contractor may be supported by designers, sub-contractors and workers.

There are three important phases of a project: before, during and after construction or building work.

They are outlined as -

• the pre-construction phase: the inception, design and planning stage of a project (before the construction or building work starts), although it is acknowledged, design and planning continues into and through the construction phase.

• the construction phase: the start-to-finish stage of the construction or building work.

• the post-construction phase: the practical completion of the construction or building work, including handover.

Designers and contractors should be appointed at the earliest opportunity to help prepare and plan your project. You should also get involved so you can give your views as and when required.

Experience has shown that, when designers and contractors are involved early in the project, everyone is better able to plan ahead and solve problems together to deliver a more successful project.

Even the simplest tasks, such as arranging routine maintenance or minor building work, require adequate time to plan and manage the work safely.

We have a CDM Pack of helpful documents to help you understand your responsibilities under these important regulations.

== Insurance for your Project – the right insurance product and cover ==

Now the CDM roles have been clarified, we can now discuss how best to insure your project.

At this stage, packaged insurance products are useful in combining the various elements of cover required, but we would always advise you to seek the advice of a construction specialist broker on which product and cover options are best for you and your project to prevent underinsurance, gaps in cover and dual insurances.

If you are the ‘client’ (or employer), the next key question is whether you intend putting a formal contract in place between you, the ‘contractor’ and possibly the ‘designer’ too.

Contracts for all types of projects are available from various sources (e.g. JCT, trade associations), however we would recommend that you seek appropriate professional legal advice when considering which contract is most suitable for your project.

Contracts can help all parties agree and clarify insurance responsibilities for a project. They certainly help us understand the insuring responsibilities on a project and ensure we provide the right advice.

The JCT Minor Works Building Contract (Minor Works) is designed for smaller, basic construction projects where the work is of a simple nature. The insurance provisions are therefore shorter and simpler than those in other contract forms, such as the JCT Design & Build Contract. However, it is still very important to carefully consider the insurance provisions contained in Section 5 of this contract form and ensure you meet project requirements.

See here for more detail on the insurance requirements under JCT Minor Works Contract (2016) (LINK)

Insurance Options

=== Public Liability Insurance ===

Once a plot of land for a new build project has been purchased you have a legal duty of care and are legally responsible for it.

Public liability (or land owners liability) insurance protects you against the cost of unanticipated incidents that can occur and where property owners are legally liable - such as trip or fall injuries to third parties or visitors - whether the injured party is there for legitimate purposes or not.

Public liability insurance for a plot of land only is not compulsory, but it is important to protect yourself for your legal duty of care as a property owner, whether it contains existing structures, material storage or even if the land is vacant with little or no apparent hazards.

Public liability insurance provides cover for claims from third parties for injury or property damage.

Most contractors already carry public liability insurance however this doesn’t protect you if you are found at fault for an incident on site, unless there is a contract in place to make the contractor responsible for insuring against third party injury and property damage for the duration of the project.

It is not unusual for public liability insurance limits of £5 or £10 million to be carried or requested for public liability insurance. The cost of injury claims on construction sites in the UK can currently reach as much as £25 million.

=== Employers Liability Insurance ===

If your project involves directly employing trades you will require employers liability insurance. It is also a legal requirement for all UK limited companies to hold employers liability insurance.

This insurance cover is much like public liability but designed to cover contractors working, or ‘employed’ for your site. This works in two ways in that it will cover a contractor should they have an accident on site you are held negligent for but also acts as contingency cover for injuries to employees of contractors should your contractors insurance fail.

In a self-build project, you may be held legally liable for a contractor’s injury on site. Something as innocuous as providing a set of ladders to a contractor, who subsequently falls and sustains injury can, and probably will, lead to a claim against you.

Claims of this nature can be expensive in providing compensation for potentially long-term injuries and high legal costs.

Although the current legal limit of cover is £5,000,000, insurers will provide you with a limit of £10,000,000 as standard. No excess applies.

=== Contract Works (or Contractors All Risk) Insurance ===

This insurance is designed to cover the new ‘works’, materials, fixtures and fittings involved in the project on an ‘all-risks’ basis. Correctly and comprehensively insuring what you are building from start to finish is a key part of managing the risk of any building project.

You should also be aware of the high risk of site theft of tools and materials as well as malicious damage.

Once your materials arrive on site, they are vulnerable, particularly if you do not have a facility to store them securely. Small domestic projects are targeted due to the relative lack of security compared to a larger site development. The right contract works insurance is therefore an important part of your insurance package.

Contract works cover also covers you for weather events such as storm and water damage as the property is unlikely to be completely weatherproof and secure. Risks of fire and water escape are also common for project nearing completion and as internal fit-out is completed.

Your contractor may hold their own annual contract works insurance. However, as you may not be able to ascertain the cover limitations, you should consider placing this insurance yourself.

Sometimes policy limits and conditions are insufficient for your project. Sometimes banks or loan financiers will request their interest to be noted on the contract works insurance to protect their financial investment.

With all insurances on an ‘all risk’ basis, our advice is always to carefully consider the policy terms, conditions, warranties and especially exclusions – ‘all risk’ insurance policies can be defined by what they exclude, not what they can appear to cover. Again, speak to a broker to fully explain the limitations of these polices to you.

=== The Existing Structure ===

If your project is an extension or a renovation, it is also important to protect this property during the project.

It is also important that this cover is on the right basis for you. Most UK household insurers will not maintain, extend or hold insurance cover whilst work is being carried out on the property, particularly if that work is structural.

If the property is also unoccupied, most UK household insurers will either restrict cover heavily or even withdraw all cover until occupied again.

Insurance for existing structures is generally available on either a restricted cover basis, or full all risks basis – again depending on your project and property.

Each project and property is different – our advice would be to firstly speak to your existing insurer or broker, let them know about the project and find out how your cover will be affected. Separate standalone cover can be arranged from various insurers whilst the property is under renovation – speak to a construction specialist for the best cover options for you.

=== Plant & Tools ===

If the contractor is using their own machinery and tools, owned or hired-in, it is best to ensure they insure these items, or even better, remove them for site overnight or when not in use to prevent attracting potential attention of thieves.

If you are hiring any plant or tools in your own name, you can insure these with the hirer, or insure them with the contract works insurance outlined above.

=== Structural Warranty ===

Once your new-build project is complete, a structural warranty insurance policy can be placed for a period of 10 or 12 years. It‘s main purpose is to cover the property against latent and structural defects.

Cover includes surveyor visits at set periods of the project to make sure work is done to the correct standard.

If you intend selling a new residential property (or a property converted into a new residential property) within the first 10 years, a structural warranty is required – the buyers’ mortgage provider will normally insist on one from an insurer that is on the CML approved list (Council of Mortgage Lenders).

Again, speak to a construction sector specialist broker about the best structural warranty for your new project.

=== Professional Indemnity Insurance - Design Risk ===

Under CDM regulations, the ‘principal designer’ is responsible for the design elements of the project – this can include material specification, method of build, dimensions, use of space as well as the structural matters of loadbearing and even shoring, excavating or piling techniques to be used. These are typically architects, engineers, surveyors etc…

Some builders offer a complete ‘design & build’ or ‘design & construct’ service where all elements of the project are managed and performed by the principal contractor.

The risk of financial loss resulting from incorrect design or specification, professional services in general, is covered by professional indemnity insurance.

Architects, surveyors and engineers typically hold this type of insurance to protect them from claims of professional negligence – this can for any of the risks mentioned above and more as defined by the UK courts (duty to warn, matters of buildability).

It is important that any professionals involved in your project hold this type of insurance for the services they provide and to the extent and cover limit you require.

Again, speak to a construction specialist broker to help you understand the right insurances for your project.

JCT contracts can be on a ‘standard’ basis where design liability can be allocated to the project professionals. As mentioned above, sometimes the JCT contract can be a ‘design & build’ version - this is where the contractor takes on roles and responsibilities of both ‘contractor’ and ‘designer’. In this case, they must hold the necessary professional indemnity insurance for the project as well as all necessary liability, contract works and plant and tools insurances.

=== Other Insurance Considerations ===

Sometimes the project’s architect will identify the risk of property damage to third party property that is not likely to be due to a negligent act. An extension to the above insurances may be required – this is called Non negligence insurance and is often given the name of the contract clause that defines it in the JCT building contract suite – JCT 6.5.1 Insurance.

This is to typically provide cover for damage that occurs to a neighbouring property where plans have been followed to the letter and neither you nor your contractor are held negligent.

If you are using a JCT contract for your project, you should refer to the architect for advice as to whether this clause should be operative and whether the appropriate insurance is required – each project is different and professional advice should always be sought.

This insurance cover is normally the responsibility of the contractor to take out and hold for the duration of the project – it can be placed on a standalone basis or as an extension to their public liability insurance.

New site developments, during the pre-planning stage for some new developments, depending on risk, may encounter legal problems affecting title, and often development sites.

The main issues that can be encountered are - restrictive covenants (freehold and leasehold), lack of legal access/legal rights to use the services, interference with third-party rights such as rights of way, services, mining rights, planning permission and building regulations.

Legal indemnity insurance can be taken out to protect developers and property owners against potential legal problem arising from these issues.

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