Utilities & Groundworks Contractors Insurance
Specialist Insurance for the Contracting Industry
Utilities & Groundworkers are responsible for various tasks related to preparing building sites, including laying cables, excavation, drainage, foundation work, and other groundwork activities.
Having the right insurance cover is essential to protect against potential risks and liabilities associated with the trade.
Types of Utilities & Groundworks Contractors Insurance
- Public Liability Insurance: Public Liability Insurance is essential for groundworkers. It provides coverage for claims made by third parties (such as clients, suppliers, or members of the public) who may suffer injury or property damage due to the work carried out by the groundworker. Utility contractors insurance covers legal fees, settlements, and compensation payments.
- Employers’ Liability Insurance: If you employ staff, Employers’ Liability Insurance is a legal requirement in the UK. It provides coverage for claims made by employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Utility contractors insurance is mandatory for most employers and helps cover the costs of legal defence and compensation.
- Contractor’s All Risks (CAR) Insurance: CAR insurance is a comprehensive policy that covers a range of risks, including damage to the construction project itself, tools, equipment, and materials.
- Plant and Machinery Insurance: Groundworkers often use various types of heavy machinery and equipment. Plant and machinery insurance provides coverage for damage, theft, or loss of these valuable assets.
- Commercial Fleet Insurance: Groundworks contractors often use vehicles for transportation of equipment and materials. Commercial motor insurance provides coverage for these vehicles, including liability and physical damage coverage.
Utility & Groundworks Contractors FAQs
What insurance do utility and groundworks contractors need?
Utility and groundworks contractors may need public liability, employers’ liability, contract works, plant and machinery, environmental liability and professional indemnity insurance.
Why is groundworks insurance high risk?
Groundworks can involve excavation, underground services, heavy plant, public areas, drainage, utilities and third-party property, which can create significant risk.
Does groundworks insurance cover damage to underground services?
Some policies may include cover for damage to underground services, but this depends on the policy and whether the contractor follows required risk management procedures.
What affects the cost of utility contractor insurance?
The cost depends on the work undertaken, excavation depth, turnover, staff, plant, claims history, utility exposure, public highway work and contract requirements.
