Builder’s Risk Insurance in California
Protect Your Project From the Ground Up
Builder’s risk insurance — also known as course of construction insurance — protects buildings, materials, and equipment while a structure is being built or renovated. Standard property insurance does not cover buildings during construction, leaving contractors and property owners exposed to losses from fire, theft, vandalism, or weather-related damage. Many construction lenders in California require proof of builder’s risk before work begins, especially in wildfire-prone or high-loss areas. Whether you’re a contractor, developer, or homeowner renovating a property, we help you secure the right protection so your project can move forward with confidence.
What Builder’s Risk Insurance Covers
Covers the building itself during construction, renovation, or expansion. This includes new builds, additions, tenant improvements, and structural remodels.
Protects lumber, fixtures, roofing materials, plumbing supplies, and other items stored on-site or temporarily in transit to the jobsite.
Common construction risks — including fire, vandalism, lightning, wind, and certain weather impacts — are typically covered. Essential for California sites exposed to wildfire conditions.
Can extend to expenses such as architectural fees, permit costs, or interest charges resulting from a covered loss that delays the project.
Policies can be set for the expected construction timeline and extended if your project takes longer than planned.
Built for Contractors, Developers & Property Owners
Construction projects move quickly — and schedules change. We help you secure builder’s risk policies designed around your timeline and project scope. With experience insuring contractors across California, we provide guidance on limits, coverage requirements, and lender expectations so nothing slips through the cracks. Whether you’re constructing a new building, renovating a home, or developing a commercial project, we make sure your investment is protected from day one.
Steps:
- We review your project type, budget, materials, and construction timeline.
- We determine appropriate coverage limits and optional protections.
- We compare carriers for competitive pricing and flexible terms.
- We coordinate with your lender or GC to meet project requirements.
- We help extend or adjust coverage if project timelines change.
Do You Need Builder’s Risk Insurance?
If you’re constructing or significantly renovating a building, builder’s risk is often required — and always recommended. This table outlines common project types and whether coverage is appropriate.
| Project Type | Coverage Needed? | Why It Matters | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground-Up Construction | Yes | Protects structure & materials from major loss events | Often required by lenders |
| Major Home Renovation | Yes | Standard homeowners won’t cover construction | Needed for large remodels |
| Tenant Improvements | Often | Depends on lease & contractor requirements | Coverage varies by scope |
| Small Repairs / Cosmetic Work | Usually no | Minimal risk, not structural | GL may be sufficient |
| Commercial Build-Out | Yes | Protects materials & improvements | Typically required in contracts |
Not sure if your project qualifies? Contact us for a quick review.
Common Questions About Builder’s Risk Insurance
What does course of construction insurance cover?
It covers damage to a building during construction, plus materials, supplies, and certain types of equipment. Typical covered causes include fire, theft, vandalism, and wind.
Do I need builder’s risk insurance for a remodel in California?
If the remodel is structural or involves significant improvements, yes. Standard property policies won’t cover a building under construction.
How long does a builder’s risk policy last?
Policies usually match your construction timeline. If the project runs longer than expected, extensions can be arranged.
Does builder’s risk cover earthquakes or wildfire?
Some policies exclude or limit coverage for catastrophic risks. We help you determine available options based on your project location — especially in wildfire zones.
Who should be listed on the policy?
Typically the property owner, general contractor, and sometimes subcontractors or lenders. We help ensure proper parties are included.
Ready to Protect Your Construction Project?
Builder’s risk policies can be complex — but our team makes the process simple. Contact us for expert guidance and a customized quote for your California construction project.
