Insurance

Course of Construction vs Builders Risk Insurance

 | 
July 6, 2024

Protecting construction projects from their inception to completion is of the utmost importance; unexpected events could delay completion or cause financial setbacks that lead to delays or complete disaster. Course of Construction and Builders Risk insurance both play an integral part in providing this security - but are they different in any significant way?

Answer: No. Despite their seemingly different names, Course of Construction vs Builders Risk Insurance refers to the same form of cover - providing financial security against unexpected events during construction projects. 

What Does Course of Construction/Builders Risk Cover?

CoC/Builders Risk Insurance provides essential protection to protect construction projects against many perils, such as 

  • Property Damage: Due to fire, lightning strikes, explosions, vandalism or theft. CoC/BR covers repairs or replacement costs necessary for getting back on schedule after such incidents occur.
  • Weather Events: Mother Nature can be unpredictable; windstorms, hail, and heavy rainfall are just a few natural calamities that could damage structures or materials and this insurance provides financial relief during such instances.
  • Loss of Material: Construction materials can be expensive investments. CoC/BR offers theft or damage coverage on these materials to prevent financial setbacks.

Both property owners and contractors alike can find immense benefit in CoC/Builders Risk coverage; while owners gain peace-of-mind knowing their investments are protected while contractors protect against financial losses related to covered events.

But Why Different Names? 

Course of Construction vs Builders Risk Insurance provides identical core coverage; you might simply come across them used interchangeably by various insurance providers based on company preferences in naming policies.

Understanding Coverage Variations

It is essential to remember that not all CoC/BR policies are the same - coverage details may differ between policies. At Summit Insurance, we advise carefully reviewing policy details to make sure they fulfill your project needs, which could include coverage for:

  • Tools and Equipment: Contractors often depend on expensive tools for their work, so ensure the policy covers the loss or damage of these essential tools. 
  • Debris Removal: Construction work often produces debris; check whether your policy covers costs associated with cleaning up this mess after covered events have taken place.

Who Should Purchase CoC/Builders Risk Insurance? 

In general, responsibility for purchasing CoC/Builders Risk insurance lies with those bearing the greatest financial risk - usually property owners; depending on project agreements though contractors could also play an essential part. This point must be clearly articulated to avoid coverage gaps that might compromise projects.

When choosing the appropriate Course of Construction vs Builders Risk Insurance policy, take into account a range of factors like project value, covered perils, and any exclusions or policy restrictions. Consulting a qualified insurance professional at Summit Insurance may help guide your selection process to select coverage appropriate to your construction endeavor.

Check out our “Builder Insurance” here!

Final Thoughts

Course of Construction vs Builders Risk Insurance provides invaluable protection for any construction project, by understanding their key features and variations in coverage you can help ensure your investment remains safe from unexpected events. Summit Insurance's team of advisors is on hand to guide you through this process - visit our website or reach out directly today so we can help! 

We offer Builders Risk vs Property coverage options along with policy extensions like tools & equipment coverage options so let's work together for the success of your construction venture!

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