If you’re a New York contractor, your liability and workers’ compensation renewals are coming due sometime in the next 12 months — and this year, more than ever, you need to pay attention. The insurance marketplace for construction firms has tightened dramatically. Rates are changing, underwriters are asking tougher questions, and one mistake could cost you coverage, money, or even your ability to bid jobs.
Here are 10 key things every New York contractor should know before their renewal hits — followed by why BGES Group is the right partner to guide you safely through the process.
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1. The New York Construction Market Is Still the Toughest in the Country
New York’s construction liability market is notorious — Labor Law 240 (“the Scaffold Law”) and 241(6) make claims more severe, and insurers are cautious. Many carriers have reduced their appetite or pulled out entirely. That means your current insurance company might non-renew your policy or offer a big rate increase, even with no losses.
BGES Group specializes in this environment. We know which carriers are still writing New York construction risks and how to present your account so you get the most favorable terms possible.
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2. Carriers Are Looking Closely at “Gaps” in Coverage
If you’ve gone without liability or workers’ comp for even a short period, most insurance companies will red-flag your account. They assume gaps mean you were working uninsured — a major risk factor.
If your policy has lapsed, don’t wait until renewal to fix it. BGES Group can help you reinstate or replace your policy now and prepare a written explanation for underwriters that protects your reputation.
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3. Subcontractor Management Can Make or Break Your Renewal
Insurers now demand detailed proof that you’re properly vetting and obtaining certificates from your subs. If you can’t show active subcontractor agreements, hold harmless clauses, and proof of insurance, expect your renewal premium to spike.
BGES Group can review your subcontractor agreements and certificate tracking system to ensure you’re in full compliance — helping you avoid costly penalties or coverage exclusions.
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4. Labor Law Coverage Is Not Automatically Included
Some “cheap” general liability policies in New York exclude Labor Law coverage entirely. You might think you’re saving money — until a claim hits. A single fall injury on a job site can result in a seven-figure claim, and if your policy excludes it, you’re paying out of pocket.
When BGES Group markets your coverage, we make sure your policy includes Labor Law protection, additional insured endorsements, and primary/non-contributory wording — all the things general contractors and building owners require.
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5. Certificates of Insurance Are Under More Scrutiny
Owners and general contractors are rejecting certificates that don’t have the right language. They now check endorsements and policy forms. Sending out a certificate that doesn’t match your actual policy can delay payments or get you kicked off a job.
BGES Group issues precise, contract-compliant certificates quickly — and we’ll review your policies to make sure you can actually back up what your certificate says.
6. Payroll Audits Are Causing Major Headaches
Workers’ compensation and general liability audits have become more aggressive. If you don’t track payrolls, subcontractor costs, and classifications correctly, your audit bill could skyrocket.
BGES Group helps clients prepare for audits in advance. We explain how to categorize employees properly, gather records, and avoid overpaying. We can even help you contest unfair audit results.
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7. Rates Are Rising — But Smart Contractors Can Still Save
Rates for both liability and workers’ compensation are trending upward, especially for high-risk trades like masonry, roofing, and scaffolding. But not all contractors are treated equally. Underwriters reward those who can show strong safety practices, clean loss runs, and well-written contracts.
BGES Group positions your company to get the best rate possible — not just the one your renewal carrier offers. We shop your account to multiple specialized construction markets and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
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8. Safety and Risk Management Are Bigger Factors Than Ever
Carriers now ask detailed questions about fall protection, site supervision, and employee training. A missing safety program can result in declined coverage or higher premiums.
BGES Group provides guidance on creating or improving your written safety manual, holding pre-job meetings, and documenting training — all of which help lower risk and show underwriters that your company is serious about safety.
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9. Misclassifying Workers Can Lead to Audit Bills or Penalties
Many contractors get hit with unexpected bills because their workers were misclassified. For example, you might classify someone as a carpenter when their actual work includes roofing. That’s a big problem during audits and can cause retroactive premium increases or even policy cancellation.
BGES Group reviews your class codes, payroll records, and subcontractor agreements to make sure everything is correct before renewal — preventing nasty surprises later.
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10. Renewal Time Is the Perfect Moment to Compare Your Coverage
Too many contractors just let their policy renew automatically. That’s risky. You might be missing key endorsements, paying too much, or staying with a carrier that doesn’t truly understand New York construction exposures.
BGES Group encourages every contractor to get a second opinion. We’ll review your current policy, identify hidden gaps, and show you better alternatives — often with stronger protection for less money.
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Why Contractors Choose BGES Group
BGES Group isn’t your typical insurance agency. We are construction insurance specialists — it’s what we do every day. We know the policies, carriers, and certificates that New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut contractors need to stay compliant, competitive, and protected.
Here’s what sets us apart:
• Expertise in New York Labor Law coverage
• Fast, contract-compliant certificates
• Access to top A-rated carriers still writing New York construction risks
• Aggressive shopping to get the best pricing available
• Personalized service from people who know your business
Whether you’re a small subcontractor or a mid-sized general contractor, BGES Group has the experience and carrier relationships to protect your business and help you win more jobs.
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Don’t Wait Until Renewal — Get a Quote Now
The best time to start the renewal process is 90 to 120 days before your current policies expire. That gives you time to fix issues, collect documents, and let BGES Group negotiate on your behalf.
Don’t risk higher premiums or gaps in coverage by waiting too long. Let BGES Group go to work for you — and show you why hundreds of New York contractors trust us year after year.
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Contact BGES Group Today
BGES Group
Construction Insurance Specialists for New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut Contractors
📞 Gary Wallach: 914-806-5853
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Final Thought:
Renewal time shouldn’t be stressful — it should be your opportunity to strengthen your protection and save money. With BGES Group, you’ll have experts who understand the New York construction market inside and out, fighting to get you the best possible results. Don’t leave your insurance — or your business — to chance. Call BGES Group today.