Professional Liability Insurance for Architects and Engineers
If you consider it, engineers and architects are hugely at risk. All you have to do is travel around town architects designed each structure. The legal responsibility of an architect can last for years after construction and not end after the planning phase. Engineers and architects don’t sell products but rather offer professional services. Insurance may aid architect’s and engineer’s errors or omissions.
Suppose you’re an engineer, design professional, landscape design professional, or other construction professional with specialization. You should take into account professional liability insurance in that circumstance. Engineers and architects’ professional liability insurance covers the professional’s legal responsibility arising from the services they provide to their clients.
The Reasons Architects and Engineers Get Sued
- Human error
- Failing to do the right thing
- Inability to comprehend the building codes
- Not getting specialized help in the event of need
Common Design and Coverage Specifications That Are Part of the Architects and Engineers Insurance Policy
Every professional liability insurance policy and insurance firm is different. We wanted to give examples of the coverage offered in numerous engineer and architect policies.
- Professional design insurance includes personal injury, negligence, and more.
- Costs for a defense that is not within the policy’s limits
- Professional services are defined more expansively
- Blankets that are additional insured
- Accidents to the Bodily or Property that are Contingent
- Broad coverage of asbestos, pollution, as well as an equity interest
- Joint ventures that cover coverage
- Damages for punitive purposes as permitted under State law
- Projects that require coverage
Standard Exclusions Listed Within Architects and Engineers Insurance Policies
- Intentional acts
- Lawbreaking
- The insured makes claims to another insured
- Dishonest acts
- Criminal act
- Employment liability
- The contract assumes liability for the breach
- Incorrect work
It is essential to realize that even if architects believe they’ve done everything correctly, they can get accused of causing damage.
What Are the Options for an Architect or Engineer to Do to Limit Their Liability?
- Set client expectations
- Write everything down
- Take good meeting notes
- Let the client make difficult choices
- Be proactive in dealing with client complaints
- Make sure to include a mediation clause in your contract
Many architects also have various other types of commercial and business policies as part of their general risk management plan. It could include.
- Employment liability
- Commercial General Liability
- Commercial Auto
- Property Insurance
- Bonds
- Worker Compensation
- Excess Liability Policy
A Few Last Thoughts
Professional liability policies get written using a claims-made form. Therefore, it is essential to understand how the policy’s dates relate to the clause that makes claims under the insurance.
Commercial Insurance Ottawa can assist you in determining the coverage you need and offer a range of options to consider. Contact us today for a commercial or business insurance quote at (613) 454-5640 or email at info@commercialinsuranceottawa.com.