Engineers can become involved in Professional Indemnity claims even where they believe their services were provided correctly.

Claims often arise from allegations involving design, advice, certification, documentation, coordination or a failure to identify or communicate a risk.

The following examples are fictional, but illustrate the types of circumstances that can result in a claim.

Civil Engineer, design or specification error #

A civil engineer designs retaining walls for a residential development. After construction, movement occurs and the client alleges that relevant soil conditions were not adequately considered.

The engineer becomes involved in a claim for rectification costs and project delays.

Structural Engineer, inadequate consideration of site conditions #

A structural engineer prepares specifications for a commercial project. Problems later arise with the foundations and the client alleges that relevant site and geotechnical conditions were not adequately addressed.

The engineer is included in a claim involving redesign and remediation costs.

Mechanical Engineer, certification issue #

A mechanical engineer inspects and certifies part of a building services installation. A compliance issue is later identified and the engineer’s certification is questioned.

The engineer may need to respond to allegations concerning the inspection and certification services provided.

Electrical Engineer, dispute about scope of services #

An electrical engineer designs part of the electrical system for an industrial facility. Problems arise after commissioning and the client alleges that the engineer should have identified and addressed additional requirements.

The engineer disputes that the additional work formed part of the original engagement but still needs to respond to the claim.

Environmental Engineer, third-party reliance #

An environmental engineer prepares a report for a client in relation to a property. A third party later relies on the report and alleges that important contamination issues were not adequately identified.

Even where the report contains limitations or disclaimers, the engineer may still incur costs responding to the allegation.

Geotechnical Engineer, risk communication #

A geotechnical engineer identifies a potential site risk and recommends mitigation measures. Following subsequent damage, the client alleges that the seriousness or urgency of the risk was not adequately communicated.

Fire Safety Engineer, reliance on preliminary advice #

A fire engineer provides preliminary advice during the design stage of a project. Another party relies on that advice before the assessment is finalised.

Changes are subsequently required and the engineer becomes involved in a dispute concerning redesign costs and project delays.

Building Services Engineer, coordination between consultants #

A building services engineer prepares services documentation for a project. During construction, clashes are discovered between building services and other structural or architectural elements.

The engineer is included in a claim alleging inadequate coordination between consultants.

Professional Indemnity claims can involve significant defence costs even where the engineer ultimately has no liability.

If you become aware of a complaint, demand, allegation or circumstance that could result in a claim, you should notify us as soon as possible rather than attempting to resolve the matter yourself.

You can contact our team if you would like to discuss your engineering exposures or an existing insurance policy.