Mercantile / Build & Civil
Asbestos removal contractors insurance
The risk in focus
Asbestos work calls for precise descriptions of licence class, materials, method and locations. A general construction liability schedule should not be assumed to cover asbestos exposure.
Consider the specific methods, sites and contractual requirements of this occupation before approaching available markets.
What changes the insurance assessment
Friable versus non-friable material; licence and supervisors; air monitoring and clearance roles; occupied premises; containment; waste handling and disposal; subcontractors; past work and prior claims.
Covers to discuss
Seek specific consideration of asbestos-related liability and pollution exposures, with limits, exclusions, retroactive or past-work issues and claims-made features explained where relevant. Consider contract works and plant separately.
Asbestos work and pollution exposure
State the relevant licence class, type of material removed, annual turnover from asbestos work and whether projects occur in occupied premises. Describe enclosure, air monitoring, clearance, waste transport and subcontractor arrangements. Separate asbestos identification or consultancy from the physical removal, because advice and remediation create different potential claims.
Do not infer asbestos cover from a general public liability schedule. Ask the insurer to confirm the declared activity and examine asbestos, pollution, gradual release and professional services exclusions. Provide the proposed contract and any principal insurance requirements; removal, transportation and disposal may involve more than one insured party or policy.
Information to prepare
Provide a clear description and turnover split of your activities, locations, project values, required liability limits, licences, subcontractor arrangements, current policy and claims history. Include relevant contracts and methods for the higher-risk work. We will identify any further information underwriters need.
Questions contractors ask
“Does a pollution extension include asbestos?” Not necessarily. “Does the policy cover historical jobs?” Examine the policy trigger and any prior-work restrictions.
Public and products liability guide · Contract works · D&C PI
Discuss your insurance requirements
Call 1300 310 467 or send an enquiry. Cover and availability depend on insurer terms and the full risk details.
