Builder’s Risk Insurance: Protecting Your Construction Project from Costly Delays

Any construction project is a significant investment —whether it’s a new home, a commercial building, or a major renovation. Yet from the moment ground is broken, the site becomes vulnerable to risks that can derail progress and inflate costs. Theft, fire, vandalism, severe weather, and unexpected accidents can all lead to major setbacks. That’s where builder’s risk insurance comes in. At Hawsey Insurance, we help contractors, developers, and property owners secure the coverage they need to keep projects on track and protect their bottom line.

What Is Builder’s Risk Insurance?

Builder’s risk insurance is a specialized form of property insurance designed to protect buildings and structures during the construction or renovation process. A standard property insurance policy won’t cover a structure under construction, making builder’s risk coverage essential for anyone responsible for completing a project.

This type of policy typically applies to:

  • Residential construction
  • Commercial developments
  • Renovation and remodeling projects
  • New custom home builds
  • Installation of equipment or structural components

Whether you’re a builder managing multiple job sites or a homeowner overseeing your own renovation, builder’s risk insurance ensures you won’t face unexpected financial loss when the unpredictable happens.

What Builder’s Risk Insurance Covers

Construction sites face unique hazards, and builder’s risk insurance is designed to protect materials, equipment, and unfinished structures from unexpected damage. While policies can vary, coverage often includes protection from:

  1. Fire and Smoke Damage

    Construction sites are particularly vulnerable to fire. Hot work from welding, electrical installation, or a simple spark can cause significant damage. Builder’s risk insurance helps cover rebuilding costs and replacement materials.

  2. Theft and Vandalism

    With valuable materials often left outdoors or unsecured, construction sites are prime targets for thieves. Builder’s risk insurance can cover stolen building supplies, damaged equipment, and vandalism-related losses.

  3. Weather and Storm Damage

    Severe weather such as windstorms, hail, or lightning can destroy partially completed work. Coverage helps pay for repairs and keeps your project moving forward.

  4. Equipment, Materials, and Supplies

    Materials stored onsite, in transit, or temporarily at another location may be protected under your policy. This ensures that if anything is damaged or stolen before installation, you won’t bear the cost alone.

  5. Temporary Structures

    Items like scaffolding, formwork, fencing, and signage may also be included in your policy’s protection.

Builder’s risk insurance ensures that the investment you’ve already made isn’t lost due to events outside your control.

Who Needs Builder’s Risk Insurance?

This coverage is essential for anyone with a financial interest in a construction project. This can include:

  • General contractors
  • Subcontractors
  • Developers
  • Homeowners
  • Property investors
  • Project managers

If your role puts you at risk of financial loss due to property damage or project delays, builder’s risk insurance is a wise and often necessary investment.

How Long Does Coverage Last?

Builder’s risk insurance is temporary and designed to last only for the duration of construction. A policy typically remains active from the date construction begins until the project is completed or placed into service. Once the building is finished, it can transition into a standard property or homeowners insurance policy, depending on the use of the structure.

At Hawsey Insurance, we guide you through coverage timelines to ensure there are no gaps that leave your project exposed.

Why Builder’s Risk Insurance Is Worth It

Construction is inherently unpredictable. Costs can quickly spiral when damage occurs, especially if you don’t have proper insurance in place. With builder’s risk insurance, you get:

  • Financial protection against major setbacks
  • Faster project turnaround, because repairs can be addressed quickly
  • Stronger risk management for your business
  • Peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the build—not the what-ifs

A single incident can halt progress for weeks or months. Builder’s risk coverage helps ensure that disruptions are minimal and manageable.

Why Choose Hawsey Insurance

As an independent agency, Hawsey Insurance provides contractors and property owners with personalized coverage solutions, competitive options, and hands-on service. We work with you to:

  • Assess your project risks
  • Outline coverage options that align with your timeline
  • Customize your policy for materials, structure types, and equipment
  • Ensure project compliance requirements are met

Our team is committed to protecting your investment from day one.

Secure Your Builder’s Risk Insurance Today

Every construction project comes with challenges, but with the right coverage in place, unexpected events don’t have to derail your plans. Hawsey Insurance can help you secure the builder’s risk insurance you need for a confident and protected build. Contact us today to speak to our team about a builder’s risk insurance quote.