On a standard build ie an extension or a loft conversion a professional builder will have in place what is called a contractors all risk policy. This covers the contractor for the period that the works will go on for, the cost of the contract and any plant that might be needed whether it is hired in plant or own plant. In addition to this there will also be a public and employers liability policy in place.
Contractors all risk insurance is great for a contractor to have in place and totally covers them in the event of a loss. But it does not entirely cover the client. Say for instance a few months after the works have been completed, then all of a sudden the neighbouring house,whether attached or detached suddenly starts to subside, or cracks start to appear on their walls, then a problem can arise for the client.
Potentially works were carried out and everything had been done to exactly as the drawings were set out. A loss assessor was to then view all the works and was happy as to what had been done, therefore where is the blame to lie as the insurer for say the demolition contractor, say they are not liable, the same would go for the contractors policy, which would then mean you end up uninsured and have a potentially large claim to settle.
Subsidence claims can range from 3k – 50k and sometimes more, so ideally you would want to avoid having to be left wide open to this type of claim.
Therefore with a JCT 21.2.1 insurance contract in place you are fully covered and will have no fear in that any works you undertake will have any knock on effect with a potential claim from any neighbouring properties.
If you are looking for a JCT Insurance we can arrange this for you. The best way is to get us the full description of works and any engineers drawings. This way our A-rated insurers can assess and get you the best possible premium.
