Residential Contractor/Custom Home Builder

Disturbance, relocation, or stockpiling of soils could result in unknown pre-existing contaminated soil being collected and spread to a site’s clean areas or improperly disposed of. Fugitive air emissions, such as dust and particulates, could also be released.

Improper erosion controls or soil stockpiling could allow silt and sediment run-off. Exposure to stormwater or a water pipe break could lead to surface run-off of these soil particles, impair the proper functioning of stormwater drainage systems and cause ecological damage to streams and rivers.

Leaks in sewer lines can result in the migration of sewer gases into living/work areas and utility conduits or the release of sewage contaminants, including pathogens, chemicals, and nutrient pollutants, into nearby subsurface utilities and water systems.

Hazardous materials may be used during construction and stored at a jobsite. Spills and leaks of materials such as adhesives, sealants, solvents, paints, coatings, and curing compounds could result in extensive cleanup liability. Air emissions from fumes, overspray, or mixing incompatible chemicals can release toxic vapors that pose an inhalation hazard to third parties.

Fumes and hazardous air emissions can be released from construction activities such as welding (manganese), concrete cutting (silica dust), or combustion engines (carbon monoxide).

Equipment brought to and stored on a jobsite may be powered by diesel fuel and require petroleum-based hydraulic fluids and lubricants. Release of fluids can occur from leaks or spills during refueling, maintenance, or transport to and from a jobsite.

Wastewater from equipment washout may contain toxic, caustic, and corrosive materials. Improper washouts or leaks can impact adjacent properties or enter storm drains which discharge to surface waters and can damage natural resources and aquatic life.

Leaks or spills can occur while transporting, loading, or unloading chemicals, paints, waste, or debris to and from a jobsite or disposal facility. Exposures may be from the insured operating their own vehicles or contingent liability through those they hire.

Improper design or installation of plumbing and HVAC systems or building materials, including windows, insulation, and drywall, could result in leaks, condensation, or water intrusion into building materials and cause mold and bacteria growth. Work on existing systems during renovation or exposure of installed raw material to moisture conditions could also result in mold growth.

Unhealthy indoor air quality could result from many newly installed materials or poorly designed or faulty building ventilation. Contaminants that can affect the health of building occupants include mold and bacteria; volatile organic compounds, which can emit from adhesives, paints, and preservatives; formaldehyde, which can be in engineered wood products and adhesives; and combustion products such as carbon monoxide.

Inadvertent disturbance during installation, repair, or renovation could release asbestos particles from asbestos-containing materials such as insulation, floor tiles, and ceiling tiles; lead particles from lead-based paint; or mold or mold spores from areas where water intrusion has occurred.

Contractors may provide design services that can result in professional liability. Design services may include performing all in-house design work, hiring design firms through a joint venture, or providing professional opinions on design aspects. Errors and omissions can delay time, overrun budgets, and result in rework. Contractors may make modifications to design specs while at the jobsite. Malfunctions arising from these changes create a direct professional responsibility for the contractor.

Proper selection and supervision of subcontractors can be professional exposure for the contractor. Contractors may be required to defend themselves against claims relating to work for which they were responsible due to the hiring of the sub.