This list is designed for the principal/client: tick-off points for checking the contractor's cover – before signing the contract and during the project. The reasoning behind each point lives in the detailed article; this is the concise, work-ready version.
In brief:
- What matters isn't whether the paperwork exists, but what's in it.
- Three rounds: before signing the contract · at the start of work · during the project.
- If a point looks doubtful, ask for help – the check can also be run through at a free consultation.
Before signing the contract
- ☐ The contract contains an insurance clause: who takes out what, for what amounts, until when, and how it's certified (article)
- ☐ The cover is CAR/EAR (which also protects the works), not just liability insurance (the difference)
- ☐ The sum insured reaches the project's full value – including supplied materials
- ☐ The liability limit is proportionate to the surroundings (neighbours, traffic, an operating facility)
- ☐ For an existing building: there is an existing property extension, with a realistic sum insured (article)
- ☐ The circle of insureds extends to the whole subcontractor chain – and to you as the principal
At the start of work
- ☐ The certificate or policy copy is in hand – issued by the insurer (certificate article)
- ☐ The period of cover spans the whole schedule + the maintenance extension is in place (article)
- ☐ Premium payments are up to date (confirming the cover is live)
- ☐ A pre-start condition survey has been completed – of the existing building and the neighbouring properties
During the project
- ☐ On any contract amendment (deadline, value, scope): an updated certificate has been requested (article)
- ☐ The policy's expiry date is in the calendar – any extension checked before it lapses
- ☐ When new subcontractors join: the chain's cover remains fully in place (chain checklist)
- ☐ In the event of a loss: notification has gone to the insurer's claims line, and documentation is under way (claims article)
Before handover
- ☐ Operational (property) insurance for the finished works is arranged – live from the day of handover (article)
- ☐ The list of handover-related insurance tasks is on hand (handover checklist)
If you get stuck on any point – or a document you've received isn't clear – bring it to a free 20-minute consultation. Book a time →
A question tailored to your own project? Book a free 20-minute project consultation →
This article is for general information only and does not constitute an offer, or insurance or legal advice. The specific covers are determined by the insurers' terms and conditions in force at any given time; the section structure and the range of extensions vary by insurer.
