VERTEX’s construction experts work to proactively reduce the possibility that a loss will occur during construction and mitigate the severity of those that do occur.
An effective construction loss control program helps policyholders reduce construction claims and assists insurance companies to mitigate losses through safety and risk management information and services. VERTEX is instrumental in identifying conditions or situations associated with our clients’ projects, structures, and business operations that present a possibility of loss, whether or not an actual loss occurs. VERTEX’s construction-related services are wide ranging and extend from owner’s representation to construction claims and construction defect consulting. Unlike most other firms, this experience provides a unique perspective for loss control services through our hands-on comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with construction. In particular, our litigation experience allows us to identify the most common components associated with building failures. By being able to identify potentially problematic conditions early on, we can ensure that conditions are properly managed, designed, and installed during original construction avoiding costly lawsuits.
Pre-Construction Phase Assessment
At pre-construction, VERTEX provides a comprehensive analysis outlining the key facets and contractor attributes of a proposed project. VERTEX researches entities to qualify their capabilities for the proposed project and verifies that a successful track record exists on similar projects. This would typically include research of the developer, general contractor, and involved design professionals. VERTEX analyzes relevant past claim summary information to help determine the nature of past exposures, such as claim development and magnitude, and allows an accurate assessment of risk going forward. VERTEX provides analysis related to construction considerations specific to the proposed project, such as Construction costs/time frames and consistency with similar projects. VERTEX provides an assessment of the building envelope to determine the most susceptible areas of failure that may require special consideration. VERTEX reviews hazards (wind, seismic, flood) that can be expected with the subject parcel/project. Last, VERTEX will assess typical types of challenges (and construction claims) associated with constructing a building of this type.
Construction Phase Assessment
During construction, VERTEX assesses building plans and specifications for problematic conditions. As part of this work, VERTEX identifies areas where plans may be deficient or insufficient and recommend changes where necessary. VERTEX performs routine site visits to monitor progress and quality of the work and provide reports outlining concerns that should be addressed. Inspections can focus on ensuring the proper and skilled installation of key building components. VERTEX can also conduct testing of building components. This typically includes water testing of select windows, doors, and vulnerable penetrations in the exterior walls. VERTEX can also assess health & safety practices during construction.
