Conn Kavanaugh
Client solutions, in Boston and beyond
Start with the Core Coverages
Before a shovel hits the ground on any Massachusetts construction site, your insurance strategy should be just as buttoned-up as your blueprint. From worker safety to accident liability, the right coverage—and the right contracts—help protect your timeline, your team, and your bottom line.
Ensure every party involved—owner, general contractor, and subcontractors—understands what’s covered, where gaps may exist, and who is responsible for what. Core policies typically include:
- General liability – Covers third-party bodily injury or property damage.
- Workers’ compensation – Required for employee injuries, wage replacement, and related medical expenses.
- Builder’s risk – Protects materials, equipment, and the structure while under construction.
- Professional liability – Applies to design professionals for errors, omissions, or negligence.
How Contracts Shift Risk Before Claims Ever Happen
Insurance coverage is only half the story. The construction contract determines who bears which risks. The wrong language can override coverage expectations—or create uninsured liabilities. Align contract language with policy terms to prevent disputes and coverage denials.
Key provisions to review include:
- Indemnity clauses – Who pays, defends, and holds harmless? Define scope and responsibility clearly.
- Additional insured requirements – Ensure the right endorsements are issued and current.
- Primary and non-contributory language – Clarifies which policy responds first.
- Waiver of subrogation – Prevents your carrier from pursuing claims against other parties on the job.
- Certificate tracking – Maintain a centralized system to confirm compliance and flag expired COIs early.
When to Consider a Wrap-Up (OCIP or CCIP)
Wrap-up programs consolidate coverage for all enrolled contractors and subcontractors under one policy, either sponsored by the owner (OCIP) or general contractor (CCIP). They’re ideal for large, high-risk, or multi-phase jobs.
Wrap-ups can offer:
- Unified claims handling and coverage limits across all enrolled parties
- Reduced premium duplication and potential cost savings
- Clear rules for enrollment, payroll reporting, and site safety
- Fewer gaps between policies—when structured properly
Be sure to coordinate carve-outs and confirm how post-completion operations are handled.
Construction Site Safety and Claims Readiness
Even with strong construction site safety protocols, accidents can happen. The key is having a ready, repeatable process to capture facts and notify carriers—especially if there’s a potential construction accident lawyer or injury claim in play.
Prepare your team to:
- Secure the site and provide aid immediately
- Document the event—take photos, collect witness info, and log a timeline
- Preserve records—daily reports, inspection logs, contracts, and communications
- Report promptly to the appropriate carrier and follow claim protocols
- Involve counsel early if serious injuries or potential litigation arise
Assign a designated person to manage certificates of insurance (COIs) and endorsements. A shared tracker ensures everyone on-site is covered and compliant.
Pre-Construction Risk Checklist
- Confirm required insurance and limits with broker and counsel
- Verify additional insured status and proper endorsement forms
- Align indemnity language and exhibits across all contract tiers
- Decide whether an OCIP or CCIP fits the project’s scale and complexity
- Implement a COI and endorsement tracking system before mobilization
FAQs
Do I need builder’s risk coverage for a renovation?
Yes. If you’re altering or improving an existing structure, builder’s risk may cover materials, temporary structures, and soft costs during construction.
What if a subcontractor can’t meet insurance requirements?
Don’t wait until after the award. Options include adjusting scope, increasing retainage, or enrolling them in the wrap-up. Always document decisions and keep COIs current.
What’s the difference between OCIP and CCIP?
An OCIP is sponsored by the owner. A CCIP is sponsored by the general contractor. Both consolidate coverage but differ in who controls the program.
Need help aligning insurance policies with project realities?
Our team can help you build a smart risk strategy—before you build anything else. From contract review to construction accident coverage, we advise Massachusetts contractors and developers at every stage of the job.
