Contracts

Builder's Risk Insurance

Insurance covering property under construction against fire, theft, vandalism, weather, and similar perils during the build.

Builder's risk insurance is a specialty property insurance policy that covers a building under construction (and often materials staged on site) against direct physical loss from fire, lightning, theft, vandalism, wind, hail, and similar perils. It is typically written on a project-by-project basis and runs from project start through substantial completion or beneficial occupancy.

Builder's risk is almost always required by lenders on financed construction projects. The premium typically runs 0.1% to 0.4% of the construction value depending on project type, location, and coverage scope. Either the owner or the GC procures the policy depending on contract terms; named insureds typically include both.

Frequently asked questions

Who pays for builder's risk insurance?+

Either the owner or the GC, depending on the contract. Owner-procured is common on owner-developed projects; GC-procured is common on speculative development. Either way, both parties should be named insureds.

What does builder's risk insurance cover?+

Direct physical loss to the building under construction (and often staged materials) from fire, lightning, theft, vandalism, wind, hail, and similar perils. Coverage is broad but not all-risk by default; check the specific policy form for exclusions.

When does builder's risk insurance end?+

At substantial completion or beneficial occupancy, whichever comes first, depending on policy terms. The owner's permanent property insurance typically begins at the same time. Verify the transition in writing to avoid coverage gaps.

Related terms