Keep Your Clients Safe During Home Improvement
When building or renovating a home, homeowners are faced with unique risks. During the construction process, homes and homeowners are more susceptible to losses ranging from fire and theft to vandalism and injury to a third party. However, with proactive planning, you can minimize your risk and enhance the likelihood of a safe and successful project so you can enjoy the comforts of your new or renovated home.
Builder\u2019s Risk Policy: Additionally insured
Liability:\xa0
Opportunities to save:\xa0With your home under construction, it may be the time to upgrade your alarm, plumbing, or electrical systems, or install loss prevention devices such as a whole house leak detection and water shut-off system. Upgrading can earn premium discounts on your policy.
During Construction
Create worker and occupant ground rules.
Allow your contractor to handle negotiations with the workers and sub-contractors.
Let every person near or in the house know they must heed safety practices.
Post emergency numbers.
Keep portable fire extinguishers easily accessible.
Require workers to clean up debris daily.
Turn off water and gas supply lines if not needed, but never disconnect fire or security alarms.
Consider motion-activated lighting, fencing, gates across driveways, and security guards to help protect an unoccupied house.
Use a locked garage or room to store tools and materials.
After Construction
Let the homeowner insurance company know the project is nearing completion.
Ensure that your builder and sub-contractors all carry adequate liability coverage in the event of an accident while on your property, and ensure that your home policy has been bound and issued.
You may also want to increase your liability coverage if improvements included, for instance, a swimming pool, tree house, or other structure that could be considered an \u2018attractive nuisance\u2019 and focal point for guests, children or trespassers.