Civil Engineering Errors and Omissions Insurance

We provide errors and omissions insurance (E&O), also called professional liability insurance, to civil engineers who work in all industries. Civil engineering is one of the oldest types of engineering. Civil engineers work on the design, construction, and maintenance of various projects, including buildings, roads, tunnels, bridges, dams, ports, railways, airports and water and energy systems.

Civil engineering has several sub-specialties, including:

• Geotechnical
• Structural
• Construction
• Environmental
• Transportation
• Materials
• Municipal/Urban
• Water resources
• Coastal
• Surveying

Civil engineers are employed by organizations such as engineering firms, various levels of government, construction companies, colleges & universities, utilities, the mining industry, and manufacturers.

Do civil engineers need errors and omissions insurance?

Civil engineers face exposure to E&O and malpractice lawsuits based on alleged breach of contract and failure to exercise due care. If found responsible or as having been negligent, civil engineers can be held responsible for significant damages. Lawsuits against civil engineers can be based on issues such as error in design, construction defect, calculation error, and failure to follow standards or regulations.

Even if a lawsuit is not justified, civil engineers still face costly legal fees. It is therefore vital for civil engineers to have the proper E&O insurance protection.

What coverage is provided to civil engineers by errors and omissions insurance?

Errors and omissions insurance protects civil engineers against claims made in connection with a negligent act, error or omission committed in the performance of professional services. The policy provides for the payment of damages that the insured becomes legally obligated to pay as a result of a covered claim as well as for claim expenses, including defense costs. Civil engineers should be aware that errors and omissions insurance policies include multiple exclusions, such as:

• Failure to obtain or maintain any type of insurance
• Claim made by an insured against another insured
• Dishonest, fraudulent, criminal, malicious or intentional acts
• Liabilities assumed from another party
• Express warranties or guarantees
• Fines and penalties

Many other exclusions and limitations are included in errors and omissions insurance policies. Civil engineers should carefully review their policy to ensure that adequate coverage is provided.