Course of Construction (COC) Insurance
Every construction project faces uncertainty, from unexpected weather damage to theft or vandalism on the job site. Course of construction (COC) insurance, also known as Builder’s Risk insurance, protects your project from these risks while it’s being built.
Whether you’re constructing a new commercial building, renovating a residential property, or managing a large-scale development, a course of construction policy ensures that materials, labour, and progress are protected from unforeseen losses. Without it, a single incident could delay your timeline and result in significant financial setbacks.
What is Course of Construction Insurance?
Course of Construction insurance, often referred to as COC insurance or Builder’s Risk insurance, is a specialized type of property insurance that protects buildings and materials during the construction or renovation phase. It provides coverage for damage or loss caused by events such as fire, theft, vandalism, wind, or other unforeseen incidents that can occur before the project is completed.
A Course of Construction policy typically applies to structures that are still being built or remodelled and remains in effect until the project is finished and ready for occupancy. Once construction is complete, the coverage usually transitions to a permanent property insurance policy.
In Ontario, Course of Construction insurance is a crucial safeguard for developers, contractors, and property owners alike, ensuring that all parties involved are financially protected throughout the construction process.
Why is Course of Construction Insurance Important?
Course of construction insurance protects builders, contractors, and property owners from financial losses resulting from accidents, theft, or damage during the active construction phase. It supports project stability, safety, and on-time completion.
Financial Protection
COC insurance covers repair and replacement costs for materials, equipment, and partially completed work in the event of damage before the project is completed. Without it, owners and contractors may be forced to absorb these unexpected expenses out of pocket.
Risk Mitigation
Fires, storms, vandalism, and theft are all common risks on construction sites. COC coverage ensures your project can recover quickly without derailing progress or timelines.
Stakeholder Confidence
Carrying proper COC insurance demonstrates to lenders, investors, and clients that you take project security seriously, which helps strengthen business relationships and foster trust.
Project Continuity
With comprehensive coverage in place, your team can focus on meeting deadlines and maintaining quality without worrying about setbacks caused by unforeseen losses.
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What Does Course of Construction Insurance Cover
A Course of Construction (COC) insurance policy provides financial protection for damage or loss that occurs during the building phase of a project. While every policy is customized based on the project type, size, and scope, most courses of construction coverage include:
- Property damage: Covers damage to the building under construction and materials caused by fire, explosion, wind, hail, theft, or vandalism.
- Temporary structures and materials: Protect scaffolding, site offices, construction forms, and building materials stored on or near the site.
- Equipment and tools: Extends coverage to contractors’ equipment, including machinery and tools used for construction, in the event of theft, damage, or loss.
- Debris removal and cleanup: Covers costs to clear and remove debris after an insured event, helping get the project back on track faster.
- Soft costs: Can include expenses like additional interest, architectural fees, or legal costs incurred if a project is delayed due to a covered loss.
However, COC insurance typically does not cover liability for worker injuries, faulty design, or equipment breakdowns; those risks are usually handled through separate liability or contractor’s equipment policies.
At KASE Insurance, we help clients understand exactly what’s covered under their course of construction policy, ensuring you’re protected against the specific risks your project faces.
Who Needs Course of Construction Insurance?
Course of Construction (COC) insurance is designed for individuals or entities with financial interests, materials, or contractual obligations associated with an active construction project in Canada. It helps absorb unexpected losses, allowing the project to continue.
Protects the project while it is being built, including materials and work in progress, so one loss does not affect the budget. Works with broader planning under real estate developer insurance.
Helps recover after theft, vandalism or weather damage so crews can continue working and project milestones are met. Pairs well with contractor insurance.
Shields residential builds and large remodels when high-value items are on site, keeping the job profitable. Complements Builder’s Risk insurance.
Confirms the project can be repaired if a loss occurs during construction, which helps funding move ahead. Aligns with construction insurance.
Whether you are building a new space, adding to an existing property, or carrying out a major renovation in Ontario or elsewhere in Canada, course of construction insurance helps protect the work while it is underway, allowing the project to be completed as planned.
Complete Coverage Options for Construction Professionals
Course of Construction insurance is a core part of protecting a build, but construction businesses also face risks off-site, in transit, and in the office. A well-rounded insurance program should combine project-specific coverage with day-to-day liability and equipment protection.
Commercial General Liability Insurance
CGL protects your construction business from third-party bodily injury and property damage claims, such as a client tripping on site or accidental damage to a customer’s premises. It helps cover legal defence, settlements, and medical costs so one incident does not impact cash flow.
Contractor Insurance
Contractors work with multiple trades, subcontractors, and job sites. Contractor insurance provides comprehensive coverage, bringing together key protections to ensure you are safeguarded for the work you perform, the people you hire, and the tools you use. It is a strong foundation for any construction operation.
Installation & Tool Floater Insurance
Construction projects often require moving tools, equipment, and materials between sites. Installation & tool floater insurance helps cover these items if they’re stolen, damaged, or lost in transit or before installation, so your crews can keep working with minimal disruption.
Commercial Auto Insurance for Contractors
Vehicles that transport crews, tools, and materials need commercial-level protection. This coverage helps with liability, physical damage, and accident-related costs for business vehicles used on construction jobs.
At KASE Insurance, these policies can be combined into a single, tailored program, ensuring construction professionals stay protected on-site, in transit, and throughout the entire project lifecycle.
Why Choose KASE Insurance for Course of Construction Coverage
At KASE Insurance, we specialize in creating customized Course of Construction insurance solutions for projects of every size, from residential builds to large commercial developments. Our team understands the complexities of construction and works closely with property owners, contractors, and developers to ensure every phase of the project is protected.
We take a hands-on approach, reviewing project details and identifying the unique risks that could lead to costly setbacks. With access to Canada’s top insurers, we secure competitive rates and comprehensive COC insurance coverage that fits your budget and timeline.
Whether you’re breaking ground on a new build or managing a major renovation, KASE Insurance is your trusted partner for peace of mind throughout the construction process. Contact us today to receive a complimentary COC insurance quote and safeguard your project from start to finish.
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