The construction industry is increasingly exposed to pollution and professional liability claims that fall outside the scope of traditional General Liability (GL) policies. When these exposures lead to uncovered claims, insureds often turn to their insurance agents, potentially triggering E&O issues for the agent or broker. Fortunately, Wise Insure offers a solution tailored to these evolving risks.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
This program is built for contractors and builders involved in:
- New construction (commercial and residential)
- Renovation and remodeling projects
- Environmental remediation work
- HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and general contracting
Credentialed contractors working on older buildings, especially those with potential asbestos or lead exposure, are strong candidates. Residential construction — often excluded in other markets — is eligible here.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
Wise Insure’s program offers broad and affordable coverage options that help remedy typical GL exclusions related to pollutants and professional exposures. Key coverage benefits include:
- Mold Coverage: Mold is a common exclusion in GL policies, yet it can lead to serious property damage or health issues. This program covers mold-related claims across all trades.
- Asbestos and Lead “Buy Back” Options: Contractors performing work in older buildings can secure coverage for third-party bodily injury or property damage claims stemming from asbestos or lead exposure.
- Professional Liability: Protects against design errors, project management issues, and other professional services exposures not covered under a GL policy.
Underwriting Notes and Minimum Premiums
This program is underwritten through select admitted and non-admitted markets, depending on the account and state. While minimum premium requirements may vary, Wise Insure focuses on delivering competitive pricing while maintaining broad coverage terms. Underwriters are experienced in construction-related risks and able to assess complex scenarios efficiently.
Territories and Availability
The Pollution & Professional Liability program is currently available in the following states: AL, AZ, CA, CO, GA, ID, IN, IA, MO, NV, NJ, NC, OH, OK, OR, SC, TX, UT, VA, WA, and WI.
Why Work With Wise Insure?
Wise Insure brings deep expertise in construction-related risks and a proactive approach to emerging exposures. As a wholesale broker, they offer access to multiple A-rated carriers and can structure solutions for both high-volume and specialized accounts. Their responsiveness and market access help agents secure the coverage their clients need — including hard-to-place residential construction risks that are often excluded elsewhere.
Whether you're trying to place a residential remodeler worried about mold claims or a commercial contractor dealing with asbestos mitigation, Wise Insure has the tools and markets to help you protect your clients — and your own E&O exposure.
What are some examples where such coverage could apply? How can some general liability exclusions be remedied?
- Mold:
- Is a "growing concern". The famous Ed McMahon claim in Texas for bodily injury and loss of his house due to black mold made news years ago, and it's been excluded by general liability policies ever since. WISE can insure this for all trades and builders alike. This can be important; as some mold can accelerate rot and shorten the expected lifetime of critical housing components.
Asbestos or Lead:
Exposures during remodel, remediation, or renovation work. Commercial buildings are notorious for such exposures, and so are old homes. For credentialed contractors, these asbestos and lead exclusions can be bought back and coverage put in place for allegations made by third parties alleging that the work performed left these pollutants exposed and hurt people.
https://nwcalliance.com/pollution-mold-contractors-professional/
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accounts are a good fit for this program?
Contractors and builders involved in residential and commercial construction, environmental remediation, or renovation work — especially those working in older buildings — are excellent candidates.
Can this program cover mold-related claims?
Yes. Mold is typically excluded under GL policies, but Wise Insure’s program includes mold coverage for all trades and builder types.
Is coverage available in admitted markets?
Yes, some markets are admitted depending on the state and account profile. Wise Insure also accesses quality non-admitted carriers to ensure broader availability.
Can exclusions for asbestos and lead be addressed?
Yes. For qualified contractors, asbestos and lead exclusions can be bought back to provide coverage for related third-party claims.
What states is this program available in?
This program is available in AL, AZ, CA, CO, GA, ID, IN, IA, MO, NV, NJ, NC, OH, OK, OR, SC, TX, UT, VA, WA, and WI.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.