Environmental Engineering Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance

We offer errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, also called professional liability insurance, to environmental engineers who work in all fields. Environmental engineering involves the identification and design of solutions to environmental problems, including air and water pollution control, supply of safe drinking water, treatment and proper disposal of hazardous chemicals, management of municipal, industrial and agricultural wastes, remediation of contaminated sites and groundwater, and development of new technologies to protect the environment.

Do environmental engineers need errors and omissions insurance?

Environmental engineers face exposure to E&O and malpractice lawsuits based on alleged breach of contract and failure to exercise due care. If found as having been negligent, environmental engineers can be held responsible for significant damages. Lawsuits against environmental 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, environmental engineers still face costly legal fees. It is therefore vital for environmental engineers to have the proper E&O insurance protection.

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

Errors and omissions insurance protects environmental 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. Environmental 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. Environmental engineers should carefully review their policy to ensure that adequate coverage is provided.