The Dangers of working in construction

Construction is a high-risk industry because of the combination of the health and safety risks involved.

And it really doesn’t matter if the project is a new build, or involves repair or alteration, the probability of an accident occurring at any stage of the construction is pretty high.

Common construction site hazards that could cause injury, long term illness or fatalities are usually associated with:

• Physical hazards
• Dangerous and debris filled work-environment
• Handling hazardous material
• Handling dangerous tools and equipment

Why do Flooring Contractors need insurance?

Flooring and roof installation professionals, involved with installation, removal and maintenance of flooring, face additional liability exposures that range from accidental falls through floor or roof openings, and temporary or permanent injury from fires and explosions to allergic reactions from handling hazardous material such as adhesives, solvents and other toxic chemicals.

Independent floor installers, artisan contractors, and full-service flooring companies have a lot to worry about besides securing contracts and managing them well to keep their clients and customers happy.

Every day, while working on or managing job sites, they face both external and internal risks that not only puts them or their employees in physical danger but can also lead to disruption in operations causing significant financial damage and loss for their companies.

Despite safety protocols in place, contractors can be held liable when accidents and unexpected events occur. For example, a customer might suffer property damage during a flooring installation, triggering a claim under your general liability coverage.

Flooring Contractor Insurance can safeguard skilled-trades workers and businesses from the effects of unforeseen circumstances that result in financial loss.

What is Flooring Contractor Insurance & what does it cover?

Flooring Contractor Insurance is actually a comprehensive package of different types of business insurance put together to help mitigate the overall risks or threats your organization faces.

Although coverage can vary depending on your business operation, a typical policy could include:

Commercial General Liability

This is something that every business needs irrespective of size or type. This policy includes Premise liability and products/completed operations to protect your customers or any other third-party should they suffer injury or property damage on your property, at a client location or as a result of your operations.

Workers’ Compensation

The job of a floor layer installing hardwood, carpet, tile and laminate flooring can be stressful and physically demanding. Using power tools can be advantageous but can cause serious injury when accidents occur.

Workers Comp’ provides benefits to employees affected by a work-related injury or illness.

Professional Liability

Contractors Professional Liability coverage is important for floor covering experts as it is designed to address the legal liability exposures arising from professional acts and errors or omissions on a project.

Inland Marine

Since most of the work of a flooring contractor happens at a customer location – be it a commercial or a residential property, there is an increased risk of damage or loss to company equipment, tools and flooring supplies while in transit or while being stored temporarily at an off-site location - warehouse or at a job site.

This policy can help protect against property losses while it is on the move.

Commercial Auto Insurance

This policy provides protection for both bodily injury liability and/or property exposures, when company vehicles are involved in at-fault accidents. It also covers medical bills and legal expenses arising from an accident. Where comprehensive and collision coverage is included, vehicles are protected against theft, vandalism and damage from collisions or by weather related events.

Other types of Insurance to consider.

• Surety Bonds
• Excess Liability

Flooring businesses, whatever the size should look at insurance as a valuable investment. Flooring Contractors Insurance is a program that:

• Offers protection against the risk of financial loss and legal claims.
• Improves your business’s appearance.
• Helps your business stay legally compliant.

To explore specific coverage options tailored for contractors working with floor coverings, visit our page on The Dangers of Working in Construction and the Importance of Flooring Contractor Insurance.

For those specifically managing general liability concerns, see Floor Covering Contractors General Liability Insurance for more insights.