if someone can’t break it down in simple terms, I start to wonder if they’re hiding behind the lingo or just as lost as everyone else.
Couldn’t agree more. Half the time, “indemnity” just means “who pays when stuff hits the fan.” In my experience, unless you see it spelled out in black and white—contract, policy, whatever—you’re probably the one left holding the bag. I’ve learned to demand specifics before a single nail goes in. Otherwise, you’re just gambling.
unless you see it spelled out in black and white—contract, policy, whatever—you’re probably the one left holding the bag
That’s spot on. I’ve watched folks assume “the builder’s insurance covers everything” and get a nasty surprise when there’s a gray area. Honestly, I always tell clients to double-check both their own policy and the builder’s. Had a project where a subcontractor’s mistake wasn’t covered by either party—everyone just assumed someone else had it handled. Costly lesson.
Title: Builder Insurance—Ever Wondered Who Covers the Mishaps?
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had a different experience. On my last reno, the builder’s insurance did step up and cover a plumbing issue caused by a subcontractor—though it took some back and forth. Maybe I just lucked out with a really thorough builder? Still, you’re right that it’s risky to assume. I guess sometimes the details in the contract can be clearer than we think... just gotta comb through every page, even if it’s a headache.
Title: Builder Insurance—Ever Wondered Who Covers the Mishaps?
Funny you mention the contract fine print—I've lost count of how many times I've had to squint at those endless clauses, trying to figure out who’s actually responsible when something goes sideways. It’s almost like you need a law degree just to renovate a kitchen these days.
Your experience with the builder’s insurance stepping up is honestly pretty encouraging. In my world, it’s usually a bit more of a tug-of-war, especially when multiple subcontractors are involved. I’ve seen situations where the builder’s policy covers the initial damage, but then there’s a whole dance about “subrogation”—basically, the insurance company tries to recover costs from the subcontractor’s insurer. It can get messy, and sometimes the homeowner gets caught in the middle, waiting for everyone to sort it out.
I do think you hit the nail on the head about not assuming anything. Even when the contract looks clear, there’s always that one ambiguous sentence that throws everything into question. I’ve had clients call me in a panic because a leak appeared, and suddenly everyone’s pointing fingers—plumber blames the tiler, tiler blames the builder, builder blames the supplier... you get the idea.
One thing I’ve started doing is recommending clients ask for a copy of the builder’s insurance certificate before work starts, just to see what’s actually covered. It’s not a magic bullet, but at least it gives you a fighting chance if something goes wrong. And yeah, it’s a headache, but it beats the alternative—trust me, I’ve seen enough insurance horror stories to last a lifetime.
Anyway, glad your reno story had a happy ending. Maybe you did just get lucky with a builder who actually reads their own contracts... those are worth their weight in gold.
Totally relate to the “need a law degree” bit—my last kitchen reno had me reading contracts with a magnifying glass and a cup of strong coffee. Here’s my step-by-step for surviving the insurance maze (learned the hard way):
1. Before signing anything, I ask for the builder’s insurance certificate and actually read it. Not just the cover page—dig into what’s excluded. Turns out, “accidental damage” doesn’t always mean what you think.
2. I make a list of all subcontractors and check if they’re covered under the main policy or need their own. Had a painter once who wasn’t, and when his ladder went through my window... well, let’s just say it was a long week.
3. If something goes wrong, I document everything—photos, emails, even texts. It helps when everyone starts playing hot potato with the blame.
4. I keep a copy of every contract and insurance doc in one folder (digital and paper). Sounds basic, but when chaos hits, you’ll thank yourself.
It’s not foolproof, but it’s saved me from total headaches more than once. And yeah, sometimes you get lucky with a builder who actually cares about the paperwork... those folks are rare gems.
