Allianz gets a vote of confidence from UK construction brokers for embracing modern methods

The following article has been written in association with Allianz.

Allianz has been lauded by brokers across Britain for its strengths across several key categories relating to its construction insurance coverage. This reflects the insurer’s commitment to comprehensive and tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of the construction industry.

Steve Kelly (pictured top), head of insurance, engineering, construction and power, said: “Our recognition in this award reflects Allianz’s commitment to excellence in the construction sector. The high marks for claims processing speed and access to risk mitigation partners show that we are effectively supporting our customers through the complexities of modern construction projects.”

Experts in cutting-edge construction and sustainability

Allianz supports brokers with insurance products and risk management services tailored for modern methods of construction (MMC). By working closely with brokers and customers, the company helps mitigate risks and ensures the successful delivery of modern, sustainable construction projects.

Allianz understands the evolving landscape of the construction industry enhances the quality of construction projects:

• Prefabricated modular construction: Manufacturing building modules in a factory setting and transporting them to the site for assembly, significantly reducing construction time and improving quality control.
• Panelised systems: Creating wall, floor and roof panels in a factory before transporting them to the site for assembly, offering a balance between off-site manufacturing and on-site flexibility.
• Hybrid systems: Combining MMC techniques, such as modular construction with panelised systems, to leverage the benefits of each method.
• Digital construction: Technologies such as building information modelling, 3D printing and virtual reality are transforming the construction landscape along with enhancing precision, reducing waste and improving collaboration among stakeholders.

Comprehensive insurance solutions

Allianz offers tailored insurance products that meet the specific needs of brokers in the construction industry:

• Speed and efficiency in claims processing: Prompt claims handling is vital to maintaining project timelines and managing costs.
• Expert underwriting: The underwriting team is deeply knowledgeable about the challenges and opportunities in the construction sector, particularly the adoption of MMC. This allows them to craft bespoke policies that address the specific risks their customers face.
• Risk management: Integrates risk management services with comprehensive coverage options, ensuring that customers receive the most out of their insurance.

Christian Simpson (pictured top right), technical underwriting manager, engineering, construction and power, said: “We’re committed to providing insurance solutions that adapt to the evolving landscape of construction. Being recognised for our comprehensive coverage and underwriting experience highlights our dedication to understanding the unique risks that MMC present.”

Addressing common concerns

Despite its advantages, MMC also presents several common concerns and challenges, such as quality control, supply chain and logistics, design, integration with existing infrastructure, perception and acceptance, environmental impact and costs. Allianz addresses these concerns, and its underwriting team recognises the challenges and opportunities in the construction sector, particularly with the adoption of MMC.

Allianz is also committed to promoting sustainability in construction through:

• Energy efficiency: Designing buildings with additions such as high-performance insulation, energy-efficient windows and advanced HVAC systems and incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, into designs.
• Sustainable materials: Using materials with low environmental impact, such as recycled or reclaimed materials, and those with a low carbon footprint. Promoting the use of sustainable timber and other renewable resources.
• Waste reduction: Implementing waste management strategies to reduce, reuse and recycle construction waste. Designing buildings for disassembly, allowing materials to be reused or recycled at the end of the building’s life.
• Water conservation: Incorporating water-saving technologies, such as low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems. Designing landscapes to reduce water usage through xeriscaping and other water-efficient practices.
• Green building certifications: Achieving certifications such as Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) to demonstrate a building’s sustainability credentials.
• Health and well-being: Designing buildings to enhance the health and well-being of occupants with features such as natural lighting, good indoor air quality and access to green spaces.