Running a contracting business in New York is no easy task. Between tight project deadlines, demanding clients, and constantly changing regulations, the last thing a contractor should have to worry about is whether their insurance coverage is properly handled. Yet, for many New York contractors, business insurance has become one of the most frustrating aspects of their operations.
Below are the 10 biggest complaints New York contractors have about their business insurance — and how working with a specialized, hands-on agency like BGES Group can make all the difference.
1. Liability Insurance Rates Are Through the Roof
Contractors across New York are feeling the squeeze of skyrocketing liability insurance premiums. From general contractors to small home improvement companies, rates have jumped dramatically due to rising claim costs, stricter underwriting, and New York’s infamous Labor Law 240 (“Scaffold Law”). Many contractors feel punished for simply being in business, paying tens of thousands more per year with little explanation.
BGES Group’s Approach: We aggressively shop every renewal through top construction markets and specialty wholesalers to find fair, competitive pricing. We don’t just accept rate increases — we push back and negotiate. Our team understands the New York market better than most and works tirelessly to get you the best coverage for the best price.
2. Too Many Exclusions — and No One Explains Them
Many contractors discover, often too late, that their policies are loaded with exclusions that gut coverage when it’s needed most. Common exclusions include residential work, subcontractor claims, roofing, or Labor Law coverage. Unfortunately, most agents fail to explain these critical details, leaving contractors exposed and unaware.
BGES Group’s Approach: We thoroughly review every policy line-by-line with our clients, pointing out any exclusions that could affect them. We explain what they mean in plain English — not insurance jargon — and explore ways to fill those gaps. Knowledge is protection, and we make sure our clients fully understand what they’re paying for.
3. A New Account Executive Every Few Months
One of the biggest frustrations contractors express is the constant turnover within large insurance agencies. Just when you build a relationship with an account executive, they’re gone — and you’re left explaining your business all over again to someone new.
BGES Group’s Approach: We’re stable, consistent, and personal. You work directly with the same professionals year after year. You’ll never be shuffled between new faces or departments. Our clients know who they’re dealing with — and that we know their business inside and out.
4. Brokers Don’t Fully Understand Construction Policies
Many general insurance brokers simply don’t have the construction expertise required to handle New York contractor accounts. They may not understand indemnification clauses, additional insured endorsements, or Labor Law issues — leading to costly mistakes or coverage gaps.
BGES Group’s Approach: Construction insurance is all we do. Our team has decades of experience working exclusively with New York contractors — from small artisans to large general contractors. We know the coverages, forms, and contractual obligations required to keep you properly protected.
5. Agencies Keep “Rolling Over” Policies Without Shopping
A common complaint among contractors is that their agent simply renews the same policy year after year without checking for better options. Rates keep rising, coverage stays the same (or worse), and the contractor feels like no one is actually working for them.
BGES Group’s Approach: We never “roll over” policies. Each year, we re-market every renewal to ensure you’re getting the most competitive rates and coverage options available. We fight for our clients at every renewal — not just the first year we write the policy.
6. Agents Are Never Available by Phone
Few things are more frustrating than calling your agent and getting voicemail after voicemail — or being told “they’re in a meeting” every time you call. Contractors are busy people who need fast answers, not delays.
BGES Group’s Approach: When you call BGES Group, you get us on the phone. We’re old-school in the best way — we believe in personal service, direct communication, and fast response. Our clients appreciate that when they call, we answer.
7. It Takes Hours to Get a Certificate of Insurance
Certificates of insurance are a constant headache for contractors who need them quickly to start or continue work. Delays from their insurance agency can stall projects, damage relationships with general contractors, and even cost them jobs.
BGES Group’s Approach: We understand the urgency. Our clients typically receive certificates within minutes, not hours. We know your time is valuable and that delays can cost you money — so we make sure you have what you need right away.
8. Problems Take Forever to Resolve
When an issue arises — a coverage dispute, a claim question, or a missing document — many contractors find it nearly impossible to reach the right person or get a quick resolution. Calls get routed between departments, and frustration builds.
BGES Group’s Approach: We don’t bounce you around or pass the buck. When you have a problem, we take ownership and handle it immediately. You deal directly with decision-makers who can resolve issues fast and efficiently. Our goal is simple: keep your business moving without interruptions.
9. Agencies Have Grown Too Big and Impersonal
Many insurance agencies have merged or been bought out by larger corporations. While growth can be good, for contractors it often means losing the personal touch. What was once a close, caring relationship turns into an impersonal 1-800 experience where you’re just another account number.
BGES Group’s Approach: We may handle millions in premium, but we still operate like a mom-and-pop shop. You’re never “just a number.” We know our clients by name, understand their operations, and genuinely care about their success. We take pride in offering old-fashioned customer service with modern expertise.
10. Feeling Like No One’s Fighting for Them
At the end of the day, many contractors feel like they’re on their own — no one is truly advocating for them when dealing with underwriters, claims adjusters, or certificate holders. They want someone who’s in their corner.
BGES Group’s Approach: We fight for our clients. Whether it’s negotiating better pricing, helping resolve a claim, or pushing back on unfair terms, we go to bat for you. Our reputation is built on standing up for contractors — and delivering real results.
Why Contractors Choose BGES Group
BGES Group isn’t your typical insurance agency. We’re a hands-on, experienced team that knows the construction business and understands the real-world challenges New York contractors face every day.
When you call, you get us — not voicemail. When you need something, we handle it immediately. When problems arise, we solve them.
We believe in building long-term relationships, providing clear explanations, and delivering personal service that large agencies simply can’t match. Our clients trust us because we care — and because we deliver.
Get a Partner Who Has Your Back
If you’re tired of rising premiums, poor communication, and being treated like just another policy number, it’s time to experience the BGES Group difference.
We’ll review your current policies, explain what you’re really covered for, identify savings opportunities, and ensure you’re properly protected.
Call 914-806-5853 – Gary Wallach
Email bgesgroup@gmail.com
Website: www.bgesgroup.com