Why New York Contractors Are Dropping Their Brokers and Turning to BGES Group — And Why You Should Too

In the highly competitive, high-risk world of New York construction, the right insurance broker isn’t just helpful — it’s critical to your business survival. In recent years, more and more New York contractors have made a decisive move: leaving their long-time insurance brokers and partnering with BGES Group for their General Liability, Umbrella Liability, and Workers’ Compensation coverages.

Why the shift? Simple — BGES Group delivers what other brokers don’t: deep industry expertise, strategic market access, better pricing, hands-on advocacy, and the kind of service contractors thought no longer existed.

Here are 10 reasons why New York contractors are leaving their brokers behind and making the switch to BGES Group:

1️⃣ Industry Specialization: Construction Is What We Do

Most brokers are generalists — writing policies for restaurants one minute and manufacturers the next. At BGES Group, our entire focus is on the construction industry. We live and breathe New York’s complex labor law environment, scaffold law exposures, and tough-to-place risks. That means your coverage is built by people who understand your business inside and out.

2️⃣ Access to Unique Markets and Specialty Programs

Many brokers are limited in who they can access for coverage quotes. BGES Group has long-standing relationships with top national, regional, and specialty insurers who understand New York contractor risks — and we often gain access to programs other brokers can’t touch. Better options = better pricing and better coverage.

3️⃣ Significant Premium Savings

On average, contractors moving to BGES Group save between 10% to 30% on their insurance premiums without sacrificing coverage. We know how to properly structure accounts, identify unnecessary coverages, negotiate rates, and eliminate waste. In today’s economy, every dollar matters — and we help you keep more of them.

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4️⃣ Rapid Response & Personal Service

Contractors often complain about brokers who take days to return calls or emails. That doesn’t happen with BGES Group. When you work with us, you get direct access to our team — no phone trees, no waiting. Need a certificate of insurance? Help with a claim? A job site insurance audit issue? You get immediate, personal assistance.

5️⃣ Proven Claims Advocacy

Insurance is only as good as what happens when you have a claim. At BGES Group, we actively manage claims on behalf of our clients. We fight for fair settlements, push back against unjust denials, and work to minimize your experience mod and liability exposure. Contractors switching to us consistently say it’s a night-and-day difference from what they had before.

6️⃣ Expertise with NY Labor Laws (Sections 240, 241)

New York’s labor laws are among the strictest and most contractor-unfriendly in the country. Many brokers don’t fully understand how these laws affect coverage and claims handling. BGES Group specializes in insuring contractors operating under these tough statutes — structuring programs designed to minimize your exposure and protect your business.

7️⃣ No-Nonsense Advice & Risk Management Support

Contractors appreciate our straight-talk, no-fluff approach. We tell you exactly where you’re exposed, what you need to fix it, and how to reduce risk. From contract reviews to jobsite audits to safety program guidance, we work as your strategic risk management partner — not just another vendor collecting commissions.

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8️⃣ Customized Insurance Programs Tailored to Your Business

We understand no two contractors are the same. That’s why BGES Group creates customized insurance programs based on your operation’s size, trade, job types, and future plans. Whether you’re a GC, subcontractor, demolition company, or roofing firm — we know how to build the right protection for you.

9️⃣ Help With Compliance, Audits, and Certificates

From DOB requirements to project-specific insurance obligations, construction companies navigate a maze of compliance issues daily. BGES Group assists clients with everything from OCIP/CCIP enrollments to payroll audits to quick-turn COIs — making life easier and letting you focus on building, not paperwork.

🔟 Reputation and Trust Built on 44+ Years of Service

For over four decades, BGES Group has built its reputation one contractor at a time. We’re known for our integrity, responsiveness, and relentless commitment to protecting our clients’ businesses. Most of our new business comes from referrals — a testament to the trust we’ve earned in the New York construction community.

About BGES Group

BGES Group is one of New York’s leading specialty insurance brokers exclusively serving contractors, developers, and construction professionals. We offer customized insurance solutions, risk management services, claims advocacy, and strategic consulting for businesses operating in one of the most demanding insurance markets in the country.

We help clients secure:

General Liability Insurance

Umbrella & Excess Liability Insurance

Workers’ Compensation Programs

Builders Risk & Inland Marine Coverage

Contractor’s Equipment Coverage

OCIP/CCIP Enrollment Assistance

Labor Law Defense & Risk Management Support

Whether you’re a two-crew masonry outfit or a multi-division general contractor running $50M+ projects, BGES Group can help structure a program that protects your business, keeps you competitive, and improves your bottom line.

How We Help Contractors

Our mission is to give contractors the peace of mind that their insurance program is comprehensive, competitively priced, and expertly managed. We do this by:

✅ Conducting detailed coverage reviews to identify gaps and overcharges

✅ Shopping accounts to our network of top insurers and specialty programs

✅ Building tailored insurance and risk management strategies for each client

✅ Delivering immediate, personal support for certificates, audits, and claims

✅ Providing expert guidance on New York labor law exposures and claims handling

✅ Advocating fiercely on your behalf when claims happen

Simply put — we treat your business like it’s our own.

Contact BGES Group Today

If you’re a New York contractor tired of getting the same old treatment from your broker — or if you simply want to see how much better your insurance program could be — reach out to us today.

📞 Gary Wallach

📱 (914) 806-5853

📧 bgesgroup@gmail.com

🌐 http://www.bgesgroup.com

Let’s review your current program, see where you stand, and show you how we can help. No pressure, no obligation — just honest advice from a team that truly cares about protecting your business.

Is Workers’ Compensation Insurance Mandatory for Contractors in NYC?

Navigating the world of insurance can be a daunting task, especially for contractors operating in New York City. If you’ve ever asked yourself whether workers’ compensation insurance is required for contractors in NYC, you’re in the right place. In this FAQ, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this important topic.What is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Workers’ compensation insurance is a type of coverage that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. It helps cover medical expenses and lost wages while protecting employers from potential lawsuits.

This form of insurance serves as a safety net, facilitating a smoother recovery process for injured employees and lessening financial strain on both workers and businesses. It’s essential for maintaining a balanced relationship between employer and employee, ensuring that both parties have a safety mechanism in place if accidents occur.

Is Workers’ Compensation Mandatory for All Contractors in NYC?

In NYC, the requirement for workers’ compensation insurance generally depends on the number of employees a contractor has. If you employ even one person, you are typically required to carry this insurance. However, there are certain exceptions and nuances depending on the type of work and contracts undertaken.

It’s important to note that contractors working on specific projects may have tailored obligations. Certain public contracts require coverage not only for direct employees but sometimes for subcontracted personnel, to ensure that all workers have access to medical and wage replacement benefits.

Are There Any Exceptions to the Rule?

While most contractors must have workers’ compensation insurance, there are some exceptions. For example, sole proprietors or independent contractors without employees may not be required to carry insurance, though it’s often recommended for their own protection.

Understanding the exceptions is crucial, as failure to comply with these requirements can result in unexpected liabilities. Even when not legally obligated, securing a policy can provide peace of mind and safeguard against unforeseen incidents.

What Are the Consequences of Not Having Insurance?

Failing to carry the necessary workers’ compensation insurance can lead to severe penalties, including substantial fines and stop-work orders. Moreover, contractors could potentially face civil lawsuits if an employee is injured on the job without coverage.

In addition to these legal consequences, not having adequate insurance can severely impact a contractor’s reputation. Clients and partners may be hesitant to engage in business dealings with uninsured contractors, potentially limiting future work opportunities and collaboration ventures.

How Can Contractors Obtain Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Contractors can obtain workers’ compensation insurance through private insurance companies or through the New York State Insurance Fund. It’s advisable to compare policies and consult with an insurance expert to determine the best coverage for your needs.

For those seeking more personalized support, partnering with specialized insurance brokers can be advantageous. Brokers have in-depth knowledge of the market and can help navigate the complexities of policy selection, ensuring contractors get comprehensive coverage tailored to their unique operational risks.

Understanding Your Responsibilities as a Contractor

Determining whether workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory for you as a contractor in NYC is crucial for legal compliance and for the protection of both your workers and your business. By staying informed and seeking advice when needed, you can ensure that you’re fully covered and operating within the law. We encourage you to visit BGES Group to explore more about your insurance options and ensure you’re adequately protected.

BGES Group is one of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut’s Construction Insurance Specialists representing 50+ companies, including all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs. We offer all the coverage needed, including property, builders’ risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability, and group health.  Our commitment to you goes beyond the policies we provide. We are always just a call, text, or email away, ready to assist you, even on weekends. We understand the importance of your business and are here to help you navigate any insurance challenges. 

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, misclassified payrolls, or whatever your issue. We can help!  We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, Logistics Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers; we can help ANY tri-state business owner. We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that, if we can get you into, their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits, too. 
 
If you want to speak with us, call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853, click here to email, or visit our website.
 
Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2025 – BGES Group
 

Frustrated With Your Workers’ Comp Policy? Tri-State Contractors, There’s a Better Way!

BGES Group is one of the Tri-State area’s top Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists—and we’re here to make your life easier. We offer up to 15 different policy options tailored specifically for contractors, and what truly sets us apart is our exceptional service.

We answer the phone when you call. You’ll deal with the same dedicated representative for years, and we handle urgent issues in minutes—not hours or days. Whether you need a C105.2 form ASAP for the DOB or a last-minute certificate, we’re on it—seven days a week.

We’re easy to talk to, quick to respond, and never charge outrageous service or policy fees. Our goal is simple: to make your life easier—not harder.

📞 Call Gary Wallach at (914) 806-5853 today!


Common Workers’ Comp Issues We Solve:

  • Tired of invasive annual audits? We offer policies that help minimize audit headaches.
  • Is your Experience Modification Rate (EMR) driving up your costs? We have solutions.
  • Canceled or non-renewed due to losses or underwriting changes? We’ve got your back.
  • Are your payrolls misclassified or not reviewed properly? We’ll fix it.
  • Frustrated with poor agent or carrier service? Expect better.
  • Waiting hours—or days—for certificates? We deliver them fast.
  • Sick of paying 10% service fees or $500–$5,000 policy fees? Not with us.

Whatever your issue, we can help.

📞 Call Gary Wallach at (914) 806-5853, email us, or visit our website.


Why Contractors and Business Owners Choose BGES Group

We’re based in Larchmont, NY, and represent 50+ top insurance companies, offering:

  • General & Umbrella Liability
  • Workers’ Compensation
  • NYS Disability
  • Property & Builders Risk
  • Auto, Inland Marine
  • Bid & Performance Bonds
  • Group Health & More

Plus, we specialize in helping contractors, auto services, logistics firms, limousine companies, manufacturers, recyclers, and truckers—especially in New York. Many of our clients benefit from access to exclusive, long-term stable programs that reduce audit stress and improve pricing, especially for multi-state operations.


We Also Cover Your Personal Insurance Needs

From home, auto, and boat to life, health, jewelry, and long-term care, we can review your entire personal insurance portfolio and identify where you can save or improve coverage. When was your last full insurance check-up?


Don’t Just Take Our Word for It…

We know emails and ads aren’t always enough to earn your trust. That’s why we encourage you to check out our 5-star Google Reviews and hear directly from clients we’ve helped.


Contact Us Today!

📞 Gary Wallach: (914) 806-5853
📧 Email: bgesgroup@gmail.com
🌐 Website: www.bgesgroup.com
📍 BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538


Let us help you save money, reduce stress, and get the coverage you deserve—with personal service you won’t find anywhere else.

⚠️ 10 Common Issues New York Contractors Face with Surplus Lines CGL Policies

If you’re a New York contractor relying on surplus lines for your Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance, beware: these policies often contain serious limitations that can leave you dangerously exposed when claims arise.

Here are 10 of the most frequent and costly pitfalls we see:


1️⃣ Labor Law 240/241 Exclusions
Also known as the Scaffold Law, these are among the most expensive claims in NY construction. Many surplus lines policies exclude or heavily limit this coverage—putting contractors at major financial risk.


2️⃣ Action-Over Exclusions
If an injured employee sues a property owner or GC, and that party turns around and sues the contractor, coverage is often denied under these exclusions—leaving contractors to cover huge legal bills.


3️⃣ Height & Depth Work Restrictions
Coverage may not apply to:

  • Work above a certain height (e.g., 3 stories / 20 feet)
  • Work below a specific depth (e.g., 5–10 feet)
    Ignoring these can result in denied claims.

4️⃣ Subcontractor Warranty Endorsements
Many policies require:

  • Proof of insurance from all subs
  • Specific limits, AI status, Waiver of Subrogation
    Failure to comply = no coverage for sub-related claims.

5️⃣ Designated Operations Only
Coverage is often limited to specifically listed work. Any operations outside of that = no coverage.


6️⃣ Completed Operations Limitations
Some policies limit or exclude claims after a project is done—critical exposure given the long-tail nature of construction liability.


7️⃣ Limited Additional Insured Coverage
Many AI endorsements only apply:

  • During ongoing operations
  • Not to the AI’s sole negligence
    This can jeopardize contract compliance with GCs and owners.

8️⃣ High Deductibles / SIRs
Expect deductibles or self-insured retentions of $10K–$50K per occurrence. That’s out-of-pocket before the insurer even gets involved.


9️⃣ Poor Claims Handling
Claims are often managed by TPAs unfamiliar with NY labor laws—leading to delays, denials, and expensive mismanagement.


🔟 Policy Endorsements That Limit Coverage
Policies typically contain numerous subtle endorsements that restrict coverage. Many contractors only find out after a claim—when it’s too late.


How BGES Group Protects NY Contractors

We help you stay protected by:

✔️ Reviewing your current policies for dangerous exclusions
✔️ Securing proper Labor Law 240/241 & action-over coverage
✔️ Providing full completed ops & AI protection
✔️ Offering policies with fewer height, depth, and subcontractor restrictions
✔️ Working only with A-rated carriers who understand NY construction
✔️ Ensuring claims are handled by pros familiar with NY labor law


📞 Let’s Talk:

Gary Wallach
📱 914-806-5853
📧 bgesgroup@gmail.com
🌐 www.bgesgroup.com

🛡️ Your trusted insurance partner for New York contractors.

Why Smart Tri-State Contractors Are Choosing Specialty Workers’ Comp Programs — And You Should Too

When you run a contracting business in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, one of your biggest headaches is workers’ compensation insurance. Between skyrocketing premiums, unpredictable audits, limited market options, and claims that never seem to go away, many contractors feel trapped. But what if there was a better option — one designed specifically for contractors like you?

For years, Tri-State contractors have been stuck with standard market policies that offer little flexibility and even less long-term value. Today, smart business owners are turning to specialty workers’ compensation programs built to support their unique risks and payroll challenges. These programs offer customized solutions that help control costs, improve cash flow, and give owners peace of mind knowing their coverage is truly working for them — not the other way around.

If you own a construction, electrical, HVAC, carpentry, drywall, painting, roofing, or other contracting business in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, it’s time to understand what these programs offer — and how they might be a better fit for your business.

10 Benefits of a Specialty Workers’ Compensation Program for Contractors

1. Flexible Payment Options

Forget hefty upfront deposits and unpredictable audit bills. These programs offer pay-as-you-go options or low initial deposits based on estimated payroll, helping contractors manage cash flow and keep their money working in their business.

2. Coverage for Higher-Risk Class Codes

Standard carriers often shy away from insuring certain trades or charge astronomical rates. Specialty programs embrace the construction industry’s unique exposures, providing affordable solutions for higher-risk operations like roofing, scaffolding, demolition, and steel erection.

3. Dedicated Claims Management

When a worker gets hurt, you need swift, effective claims handling. These programs provide contractor-specific claims teams who understand job site injuries and work to resolve claims efficiently while protecting your experience modification rating.

4. Loss Control & Safety Resources

Prevention is just as important as protection. These programs typically include tailored safety consulting, site visits, and training resources designed to help reduce claims frequency and severity — something most off-the-shelf policies lack.

5. Better Control Over Experience Mods

Every contractor knows how painful a bad experience modification factor (MOD) can be. Specialty programs actively manage claims, often catching and correcting reserve problems or re-opening closed claims if necessary to improve your MOD and reduce your premiums.

6. Multi-State Coverage Options

If you work jobs in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, managing multiple policies can be a nightmare. These programs consolidate coverage under one policy, simplifying your insurance and saving you time and frustration.

7. Transparent, Predictable Pricing

No more games at audit time. Specialty programs typically offer clear pricing structures and proactive payroll reporting to avoid surprises and disputes down the road.

8. Dedicated Underwriting Teams

Unlike standard carriers, specialty program underwriters work exclusively with contractors. They understand your trade, seasonality, contract requirements, and payroll fluctuations — and they build a policy around your business realities.

9. No Minimum Premiums

Many small and mid-sized contractors get penalized by high minimum premiums in the standard market. Specialty programs offer options for growing firms and established companies alike, providing coverage without unnecessary financial strain.

10. Access to Competitive Rates

Because these programs are built for contractors, they can often offer more competitive rates and favorable terms than standard carriers — especially for companies with solid safety records and responsible management.

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Why Contractors Are Making the Switch

If you’ve experienced any of the following, a specialty workers’ comp program might be exactly what your business needs:

• Annual audits resulting in unexpected bills

• Difficulty securing coverage for your trade

• Poor claims service and inflated reserves

• A rising experience modification factor

• Trouble placing coverage in New York City, Long Island, or North Jersey

• Multi-state operation headaches

• Frustration with deposits, premiums, and confusing policy language

These programs are designed to help you stop reacting to problems and start proactively managing your coverage, payroll, and risk.

BGES Group: Your Tri-State Contractor Insurance Specialist

At BGES Group, we’ve spent decades helping contractors like you protect their businesses, control their insurance costs, and navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation coverage in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

We’re not your average insurance agency. We work exclusively with contractors and focus on high-risk industries, including construction, HVAC, electrical, roofing, scaffolding, demolition, and more. We have access to exclusive programs and markets unavailable to most brokers — and we know how to leverage them to your advantage.

Our team understands the pain points Tri-State contractors face, from Labor Law exposure in New York to strict payroll verification requirements in New Jersey and coverage limitations in Connecticut. We listen to your business concerns, review your current coverage, and recommend practical, cost-effective options to help you work safer and more profitably.

Whether your business has one employee or one hundred, operates in one state or several, or specializes in residential, commercial, or municipal projects — we have a solution for you.

How BGES Group Can Help

Access to Exclusive Workers’ Comp Programs for Contractors

Assistance with Experience Mod Review and Claims Analysis

Audit Preparation and Support

Job Site Certificate Management and Compliance Assistance

Annual Risk Management Review Meetings

Support for Payroll Fluctuations and Seasonal Staffing

We make it our business to simplify yours.

Contact BGES Group Today

Ready to learn more about how a specialty workers’ compensation program can protect your business and improve your bottom line? Give us a call today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

📞 Gary Wallach

BGES Group

Phone: 914-806-5853

Email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

Website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

Stop overpaying and start protecting your business the smart way. Let’s get to work.