Describe infrastructure responsibilities
Explain excavation depth, temporary works, drainage, utility interfaces and responsibility for design. Identify work performed near existing structures or operating equipment. A project may combine ordinary earthmoving with specialized mining activities; disclose each part instead of relying solely on the classification shown in a previous construction policy.
Address property being worked on
Damage to adjacent property and the cost to redo defective work are separate issues. Review restrictions affecting your work, underground property and property in your control. If engineering or design services are included, consider the professional liability implications rather than assuming general liability will address an alleged design error.
Manage contract changes
New drainage work, different haul routes or owner-directed changes can alter the exposure after mobilization. Establish a process to bring material scope changes to your broker and insurer. Keep signed changes, equipment records and subcontractor details with the insurance file so a later claim can be evaluated against the actual work.
Illustrative review scenario
A mine-site grading contract expands to include designing a drainage diversion. The contractor’s equipment and payroll remain similar, but its responsibility has changed from executing supplied plans to selecting a solution. Review professional liability, resulting property damage and contractual performance commitments separately. A change order should be brought into the insurance review rather than treated solely as a billing document. Who accepts responsibility for locating existing utilities and for changes to drainage or temporary works? Document these responsibilities and compare the design and physical-work elements with the relevant policy definitions.