For more on this part of the insurance industry:
Architects and engineers insurance protects design professionals from claims linked to planning, designing, or overseeing safe building projects. This insurance helps cover claims of negligence, design errors, and more.
It also applies to several key groups, including:
This cover is vital in the UK construction industry as it helps architects and engineers meet safety standards while supporting compliance and project continuity.
Architects are taking on more retrofit and sustainable design work. This aims to boost demand for PI cover tied to environmental standards like the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM).
Engineers are using off-site construction and prefabrication to make brokers reassess cover for supply chain and design-build integration.
Also, AI-assisted tools like building information modelling (BIM) introduce uncertainty around liability. This prompts the need for clearer wording in PI policies.
Brokers should assess emerging risks as well, such as:
Developers are now more likely to sue over delays or cost overruns, especially in fixed-fee contracts. Some insurers are also excluding cover for certain façades and insulation.
Brokers should review policies closely to spot gaps and help clients choose the right cover. A clear contract and well-matched PI policy can reduce risk.
This insurance typically includes several types of cover, including:
These are often combined in one architects and engineers insurance policy customised to the size and scope of the firm.
Engineer’s insurance is a type of cover that safeguards engineers if something goes wrong with their advice, design, or technical work.
This cover is often shaped by the kind of work they do and who they work with. It usually forms part of a wider architects and engineers insurance policy built around their risks.
They may need PI insurance, contract works insurance, and more.
Engineering insurance is not required by law, but many contracts will demand it. Clients, councils and project leads often ask for proof of cover.
For Chartered Engineers, having PI insurance is also part of meeting professional standards. Without it, they risk losing out on work or being exposed to large legal costs.
Architects need insurance that shields them from claims linked to design work, planning, or advice. The main one is PI insurance, along with tools and office insurance and public liability insurance.
Most architects get these as part of a tailored architects and engineers insurance policy, based on what they do and who they work with.
Run-off cover protects architects after they stop working or close their business. It covers claims made later about past projects.
Yes, most PII policies apply the excess per claim. That means the insured pays the set excess each time a new claim is made.
This applies even if multiple claims are made in one year. Some insurers may also apply the excess to costs and damages, so it's important to check the policy wording carefully.
Small practices might pay between £1,000 and £3,000 per year for £1 million cover. But the actual cost depends on the size of the firm, contract values and past claims.
Larger firms or high-risk projects will see higher premiums. Under architects and engineers insurance, policies like these are often personalised by brokers to match the business profile and find the best deal.
