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A Latent Defect is a defect that is not detected by ordinary inspection, but lies hidden until sometime later, when it’s discovered because it causes a problem that everyone can see. An example of latent defects would be weak concrete in part of a bridge column, that looks the same as strong concrete, but collapses when a heavy truck drives over the bridge.

Whose Responsible for Latent Defects?

The Contractor is responsible for any latent defects discovered during the first 10 years after the Engineer has issued the Final Approval Certificate. The Contractor will not be responsible for any latent defects discovered 5 to 10 years after issue of the Final Approval Certificate.

All latent defects have to be proven which means proof of Contractor negligence during the construction phase has to be clearly identified and proven. For example, a visible crack in a wall is not considered a latent defect unless it can be proven that it occurred due to the Contractor’s poor workmanship which couldn’t be identified at time of completion.

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Why is a Contract Works Policy Necessary?

by Dan Payton | June 28, 2018 | Contractors All Risk | 0 Comments

When it comes to planning a new construction project, insurance doesn’t always get the priority it requires, with contractors often wondering whether it is really necessary to take out a contract works policy at all. Very often the contract works policy is arranged at the last minute, or even after the project has already started.

Are you ready for the summer shut down?

by Dan Payton | December 14, 2022 | Construction Liability, Contractors All Risk, News & Updates, Plant All Risks, Plant Insurance | 0 Comments

As a responsible construction company owner, you know the importance of insuring your plant and making sure that your other necessary policies are in place with CivilSure. But did you know that the number of instances of – and the size of – liability claims litigation is higher than ever, and climbing?

Contractors All Risk policy – Should You Put Your Name On It?

by Dan Payton | September 2, 2015 | Contractors All Risk | 0 Comments

Dirk Gouws (Engineering Insurance expet, AC&E Engineering Underwriting Managers) explains the meaning of having your name on a Contractors All Risk policy.

Are your sites ready for shut down?

by Dan Payton | November 29, 2023 | Construction Liability, Contractors All Risk, Plant All Risks, Plant Insurance | 0 Comments

Now it the time to safeguard your site/s. As we approach the year-end festivities, it’s time to pause and prepare for potential risks that might impact both personal and professional environments. This information primarily targets contractors but holds significant...

What is not covered by a Contractors All Risk Policy?

by Dan Payton | July 31, 2018 | Contractors All Risk | 0 Comments

The main part of the Contractors All Risks insurance is the Contract Works section which provides cover for the property being worked on (e.g. new house, etc.). But it’s important to be aware of what’s not covered by a contractors all risk policy, these are just a few examples:

Build a foundation against liability claims litigation with construction liability cover

by Dan Payton | September 28, 2021 | Construction Liability, Contractors All Risk | 0 Comments

How Does a Contractor Claim For An Extension of Time?

by Dan Payton | July 12, 2018 | Contractors All Risk | 0 Comments

A Contractor can claim for an extension of time, thus extending the Due Completion Date for a project. He can also claim for any costs which will increase due to being on site for longer (called time-related General Items).

What is the Defects Liability Period?

by Dan Payton | July 12, 2018 | Contractors All Risk | 0 Comments

The Defects Liability Period starts when the Certificate of Completion is issued and continues for the period agreed to in the Contract. During the Defects Liability Period, the Contractor has to obey all written instructions from the Engineer to carry out repairs and fix any defects which appear in the Permanent Works, so that, at the end of the Defects Liability Period, the Permanent Works are in the condition required by the Contract.

Construction of the Tallest Building in South Africa

by Dan Payton | July 8, 2014 | Contractors All Risk, News & Updates | 0 Comments

Read the history >> Construction of the tallest building in South Africa, the Carlton Centre. Built in 1973 and designed by architects Skidmore & Owens.