Contractors can create environmental exposures while carrying out work away from their own premises.

Contractors Pollution Liability Insurance is designed specifically for these risks.

What types of contractors can have pollution exposure? #

Examples can include:

• Civil contractors.
• Builders.
• Excavation contractors.
• Demolition contractors.
• Environmental remediation contractors.
• Plumbers.
• Mechanical contractors.
• Fuel or tank contractors.
• Asbestos or hazardous-material contractors.
• Infrastructure contractors.

Pollution exposure can also arise in occupations that would not ordinarily be regarded as environmental businesses.

What events can create a claim? #

Examples can include:

• Accidental fuel spills.
• Damaging an underground tank or pipe.
• Disturbing contaminated soil.
• Spreading existing contamination.
• Chemical releases.
• Pollution entering waterways.
• Incorrect handling of waste.
• Pollution arising from subcontracted work.

Can subcontractors be included? #

Some Contractors Pollution Liability policies can cover the insured contractor’s liability arising from work performed by subcontractors.

This does not necessarily insure the subcontractor’s own independent liability.

Can cover be arranged for one project? #

Yes.

Depending on the market, Contractors Pollution Liability can be structured on:

• An annual practice basis.
• A particular project basis.
• A project wrap-up basis.

Longer policy periods can also be available for certain construction or remediation projects.

Is Public Liability enough? #

Not always.

Standard Public Liability policies can contain pollution exclusions or restrictions, particularly for gradual pollution.

Contractors with a material pollution exposure should check whether specialist cover is required.