WHY INSURED AND BONDED CONTRACTORS ARE ESSENTIAL

There are several compelling reasons why property owners starting construction projects should only partner with adequately insured and bonded contractors. It’s wise to seek out a construction company with great accolades and proper documentation.

PROTECTION OF PROPERTY OWNER

Insured contractors help protect property owners from liability concerns throughout a construction project. This typically includes general liability insurance, which covers third-party injury claims.

Construction accidents are complex legal situations. If an uninsured contractor or worker gets injured on your property, you could be sued or held responsible for significant medical bills. Insured contractors have workers’ compensation policies that cover workplace injuries to the crew, so property owners don’t take on that liability. If a contractor’s employee suffers an injury onsite, the property owner’s insurance typically won’t cover it; the contractor’s policy would handle this.

A contractor without insurance opens you up to significant financial risk. One construction accident could result in substantial legal and medical bills without the contractor’s policy as a backup plan. Requiring current proof of insurance before hiring a contractor reduces liability risks for property owners. Check out our process to see how we work!

THE IMPORTANCE OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION INSURANCE

In addition to protecting clients, workers’ compensation provides essential care for contractors and crews who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. Uninsured contractors often need help to pay their steep medical bills if an accident occurs on a customer’s site.

The right insurance translates to proper protection and less personal liability exposure before, during, and after partnering with a contractor.

ENSURING PROJECT COMPLETION AND PAYMENT

Contractor bonds offer assurances surrounding a project’s performance, completion, and payment terms:

• Performance bonds offer stability and security with projects large and small.
• Payment bonds ensure subcontractors and building supply companies are financially covered if the general contractor fails to pay.
• Bonding enables a smooth project execution from start to finish, even if the original contracting company falters.

PERFORMANCE BONDS

With a performance bond, if a contractor fails to finish a project, the bonding company overseeing the agreement sends a replacement contractor to complete the remaining work outlined in the original contract. This guarantees the job will be finished.

PAYMENT BONDS

Similarly, a payment bond means the surety company reimburses those costs if the contractor does not pay subcontractors, suppliers, or expenses after the property owner pays. This protects the owner from paying twice for the same work. Find out more about how we work here.

Bonds provide a financial backup plan if contractor disputes threaten progress. Checking bonding upfront establishes confidence in the relationship.

PEACE OF MIND

Contracting with adequately insured and bonded construction firms enables greater confidence and peace of mind. Insurance and bonds build trust in the working relationship between homeowner and contractor right from the start. Plus, you’ll have a financial backup through insurance policies and bonds if needed down the road, providing reassurance.

Following best practices around contractor financial protections prevents avoidable stress. While no one hopes disputes occur, the savvy property owner always takes preventative measures. Insured and bonded contractors provide suitable risk transfer mechanisms to establish reliable partnerships for construction projects. This can be especially helpful for residential properties.

PROJECTS THAT BENEFIT FROM INSURED AND BONDED CONTRACTORS

In the dynamic realm of construction, certain projects particularly benefit from the expertise and security provided by insured and bonded contractors. Large-scale endeavors such as commercial construction, major renovations, and infrastructure projects stand out as prime examples where insurance and bonding are paramount.

COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION

Complex commercial construction projects demand a high level of financial and legal protection. Insured contractors bring a layer of security against unforeseen events, shielding the client from potential liabilities. Performance bonds play a crucial role in guaranteeing timely project completion, even in the face of unexpected challenges.

MAJOR RENOVATIONS

Extensive renovations, especially those involving structural changes or intricate designs, require careful consideration of potential risks. Insured contractors give property owners peace of mind knowing that any accidents or damages are covered. Bonding secures the financial aspects, ensuring subcontractors and suppliers are compensated promptly.

INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Large-scale infrastructure projects involve intricate coordination and substantial financial investments. Insured and bonded contractors offer a safety net for the complexities associated with these projects, ensuring that stakeholders are protected from potential disputes and delays.

For projects that include meticulous planning, legal safeguards, and financial security, insured and bonded contractors are imperative for success.

CRITERIA TO CONSIDER WHEN HIRING A CONTRACTOR

Validating contractors’ insurance and bonding is vital. Check for current documentation proving active insurance policies and bonding before allowing work to begin. Contractors may provide certificates of insurance detailing coverage or bond certificates from surety companies. Here are the best practices for screening credentials:

STEPS TO VERIFY CONTRACTOR INSURANCE

• Require both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation.
• Check that coverage amounts meet state minimum requirements.
• Confirm the policy numbers match the certificates.
• Verify the property owner’s name is listed as “additional insured.”

HOW TO CHECK IF A CONTRACTOR IS BONDED

• Check that the bond certificate is current and includes coverage amounts.
• Confirm that the bonding company is reputable and authorized in your state.
• Verify the bond number by contacting the bonding company.

Taking these precautions before hiring protects you and gives confidence in the contractor relationship.

TACKLE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS WITH A BONDED CONTRACTOR LIKE ROSE CONSTRUCTION

As a fully insured and bonded contractor, RSP Group has your back. Finding a reputable contractor can be a headache, but with our experience in commercial construction, your next project can meet its full potential. Contact us today for a free consultation.