How Trump’s Trade Policies Affect Insurance Costs

President Trump’s sweeping reintroduction of aggressive tariff policies in 2025 is creating economic shockwaves across multiple sectors of the U.S. economy. While the political and international implications of these measures dominate headlines, one critical and often overlooked consequence lies in the world of insurance—specifically, how tariffs are driving up the cost of property and vehicle insurance claims.

As tariffs increase the prices of imported construction materials, vehicle parts, and various essential goods, the cost of replacing or repairing damaged property or vehicles escalates in tandem. This dynamic inevitably impacts the insurance industry, forcing providers to adjust premiums to match rising claim expenses. As a result, businesses and consumers alike are facing increased insurance rates across the board.


Impact on Vehicle Insurance

One of the most immediate and noticeable effects of Trump’s trade policies is in the realm of vehicle insurance. Many of the tariffs target Chinese goods, including original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket auto parts, with some facing duties as high as 50%. Since over half of all U.S. vehicle parts are imported, this tariff strategy is causing a sharp increase in repair costs—even for minor vehicle damage.

According to the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), these changes could result in an additional $7 billion to $24 billion annually in auto insurance claim costs. The ripple effect on premiums is already being felt, with Insurify projecting that full-coverage auto insurance premiums could increase by 19% by the end of the year.

For commercial fleets, this impact is particularly severe. Businesses that rely on vehicles for operations are facing:

  • Longer downtimes due to delayed parts availability.
  • Increased premiums.
  • Higher out-of-pocket costs for repairs.
  • Operational disruptions stemming from extended vehicle repair cycles.

Impact on Commercial Property Insurance

The effects are just as profound in the realm of commercial property insurance, especially with construction materials now subject to steep tariffs. Notable increases include:

  • 25% tariffs on steel (with an additional increase to 50% on June 4).
  • 20% tariffs on Canadian lumber.
  • A promised 50% tariff on copper used extensively in wiring and other infrastructure.
  • Tariffs expanded to include household appliances, impacting both residential and commercial developments.

These tariffs have significantly increased the cost to rebuild or repair damaged buildings. The National Association of Home Builders estimates that tariffs have added $7,500 to $11,000 to the average cost of building a new home. For commercial properties, the figure is even higher due to the larger scale and complexity of such structures.

These increased construction costs translate directly into higher property claims. For insurers, the more it costs to repair or rebuild, the more they pay out—leading to increased premiums for policyholders.


Business Interruption and Supply Chain Risks

Beyond direct cost increases, tariffs pose a serious threat to business continuity. Higher raw material prices can create instability in supply chains, exposing businesses to production delays and increased risk of business interruption (BI) claims.

Industries most vulnerable to this include:

  • Electronics and technology.
  • Automotive manufacturing.
  • Construction.
  • Apparel and textiles.

Many companies in these sectors depend on a steady stream of imports from Asia. Even slight cost hikes or delivery delays can interrupt operations, cause missed deadlines, and decrease profitability.

Insurers are taking note. Policies that cover business interruption or supply chain risks are being re-evaluated, and underwriting standards may be tightening in response to this growing uncertainty.


How Business Owners Can Respond

The volatile nature of the current trade environment—marked by unpredictable policy changes and frequent tariff revisions—makes it especially difficult for insurers to forecast future claims costs. This lack of predictability may lead to:

  • More conservative underwriting.
  • Increased premiums.
  • Stricter policy conditions.

To protect their operations and manage rising insurance expenses, business owners should consider the following strategies:

1. Review Replacement Costs and Policy Limits

Ensure your property insurance policies reflect up-to-date rebuilding and repair costs, considering the latest inflation in materials and labor. Outdated policy limits could leave you underinsured during a claim.

2. Consider Higher Deductibles

Increasing your deductible can help reduce your premium. However, weigh this against the potential for higher out-of-pocket costs in the event of a loss.

3. Plan for Extended Claims Cycles

Understand that claims may take longer to settle, particularly for property and auto insurance. Incorporate these delays into your business continuity planning and maintain contingency reserves where possible.

4. Diversify Supply Chains

If your business depends on suppliers from countries affected by high tariffs, explore alternative vendors in non-tariff regions. Diversifying your supply chain can reduce the risk of operational delays and help maintain business stability.


How BGES Group Can Help

At BGES Group, we understand how geopolitical and economic shifts—like the recent resurgence in tariffs—can dramatically impact your insurance needs. We specialize in helping businesses navigate complex risk environments and optimize their insurance programs accordingly.

With over 40 years of experience serving the insurance needs of companies across industries, our team provides tailored insurance solutions that respond to real-world challenges, like increased material costs, extended supply chains, and evolving liability risks.

Our services include:

  • Property and Casualty Insurance
  • Commercial Auto and Fleet Insurance
  • Business Interruption and Supply Chain Risk Coverage
  • Workers’ Compensation Programs
  • Cyber Liability and Professional Liability Coverage
  • Risk Management Consulting
  • Policy Audits and Cost Containment Strategies

Whether you’re a construction company facing increased rebuild costs, a fleet operator impacted by rising repair prices, or a manufacturer concerned about supply chain interruptions, BGES Group can help you adjust, adapt, and protect your business.

We work closely with each client to:

  • Analyze exposures.
  • Update policy coverages and limits.
  • Find cost-effective insurance solutions.
  • Provide ongoing risk management support.

Contact BGES Group Today

Don’t let tariff-induced volatility threaten your bottom line. Partner with BGES Group and gain a trusted insurance advisor who puts your business first.

📞 Call us at: (914) 806-5853 📧 Email: bgesgroup@gmail.com 🌐 Visit our website: www.bgesgroup.com

Let us show you how we can help reduce your insurance costs, improve your coverage, and protect your business in an ever-changing economic landscape.

Contractor Insurance Nightmares: 10 Problems That Could Be Costing You Big

New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut Contractors — Is This Happening to You?

If you’re a contractor in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, you already know how difficult it is to manage the risks on your jobsite. But what about the risks in your insurance program? Many contractors are walking around with policies that are overpriced, improperly written, or flat-out dangerous — and they don’t even know it until something goes wrong.

We talk to contractors every day who are frustrated, confused, and stuck. Their insurance costs too much. Their policies don’t meet job requirements. They can’t get answers. And when they do, they don’t like what they hear.

Here are 10 of the most common problems contractors face with general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. If any of these sound familiar, BGES Group can help — but more on that later.

1. You Think You’re Covered for Completed Operations — But You’re Not

Completed operations coverage is one of the most misunderstood and overlooked parts of a liability policy. Many contractors believe they’re protected once the job is done — but that’s not always the case. The problem? Even when you have endorsements like CG 20 37, your policy might only provide completed operations coverage for a limited number of parties. That means the general contractor, owner, or lender you’re contractually required to cover might not actually be covered under your policy. That’s a serious exposure — and a deal-breaker on many projects.

2. You’re Naming Additional Insureds — But They’re Not Actually Covered

It’s standard practice for project contracts to require contractors to name the GC, property owner, lender, and others as additional insureds. But what you intend to cover and what your policy actually covers may not match up. Many policies only grant coverage to parties with direct written contracts — even if your agreement says otherwise. This leaves you open to breach-of-contract claims and liability disputes you didn’t see coming.

3. Your General Liability Premiums Are Through the Roof

If your business is based in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, you’re already dealing with some of the most expensive liability insurance rates in the country. But just because premiums are high doesn’t mean yours should be higher than necessary. Misclassifications, poor marketing by your broker, and outdated policy structures can inflate your costs by thousands each year — for no reason.

4. You’re Being Charged Excessive Broker or Policy Fees

Far too many contractors are stuck paying $2,500 to $10,000 (or more) in broker or “policy service” fees — year after year. These charges are often hidden in the fine print or tacked on at renewal with no explanation. You end up paying more for the same coverage — without any added value.

5. You’re Paying Full Payroll for Owners When You Shouldn’t Be

If you’re the owner of your business and still working in the field, your payroll could qualify for capping under your general liability and workers’ comp policies. But many brokers either don’t understand the rules or simply don’t take the time to help you save. That means you’re often paying premiums on payroll amounts that insurers don’t even require — and your broker doesn’t bother to correct it.

6. Your Workers’ Compensation Audit Was a Total Disaster

Workers’ comp audits are notorious for causing panic, surprise bills, and frustration. If your payroll was underestimated, subcontractor documentation was missing, or job classifications were off, you might get hit with a huge audit balance. Many contractors don’t know how to prepare — and their brokers don’t help until it’s too late.

7. You Can’t Get Certificates Issued On Time — or With the Right Language

Certificates of insurance should be simple — but in reality, they’re anything but. Whether it’s listing dozens of additional insureds, satisfying specific jobsite wording, or adding waivers of subrogation and primary/non-contributory language, certificates can delay jobs or cost you bids if they’re not done right. And if your broker takes days to issue them or always “gets it wrong,” your business suffers.

8. Your Subcontractors Are Creating Risk You Didn’t Sign Up For

You hire a subcontractor to help on a job — and think your liability ends there. But if they’re uninsured or underinsured, or their policy doesn’t name you correctly, you could be the one footing the bill for their mistakes. Worse, some insurance companies will charge you at audit as if the subs were your employees — spiking your premium.

9. You Can’t Find Decent Insurance If You Work in New York City

Contractors who do work in the five boroughs — especially on scaffolds, rooftops, or multi-story structures — face the toughest insurance market in the country. Labor Law 240/241 (Scaffold Law) makes carriers nervous, and many either decline to quote or charge sky-high rates. If your broker only works with a limited set of carriers or doesn’t know how to market NYC contractors effectively, you’re stuck.

10. Your Broker Doesn’t Understand Construction

This might be the most frustrating problem of all. You call your broker with a jobsite issue, a question about a certificate, or help interpreting contract language — and they either give you a vague answer or read directly from the policy. Construction is complicated. Your broker should know the difference between CG 20 10 and CG 20 38, between scheduled and blanket endorsements, and how to make sure you’re in compliance with every job contract you sign.

BGES Group: Contractor Insurance Done Right

At BGES Group, we specialize in helping contractors in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut with their general liability, workers’ compensation, and umbrella insurance.

We don’t try to be everything to everyone — we focus specifically on construction and contractor insurance. That means we understand your contracts, your jobsite exposures, and your policy forms. We’ve spent decades helping contractors solve these exact problems.

What makes us different?

• ✅ No ridiculous broker or policy fees

We don’t tack on hidden charges or junk fees. You pay for your policy — and that’s it.

• ✅ We review every endorsement

We make sure your additional insureds — including GCs, owners, banks, and others — are actually covered, for both ongoing and completed operations.

• ✅ We help you save on premiums

From applying owner payroll caps to reclassifying your work accurately, we look for every legitimate way to reduce your cost without compromising coverage.

• ✅ We’re fast and responsive

Need a cert today? Need contract language reviewed before you sign? We’re available — and we know how to help.

• ✅ We’re your partner, not just your broker

We care about keeping you in business and out of trouble. That’s why our clients stay with us year after year.

Get in Touch With BGES Group Today

If you’re a contractor dealing with any of the problems above, let us help. We’ll review your policies, check your endorsements, and give you straight answers — without pressure or sales gimmicks.

Contact: Gary Wallach

📞 914-806-5853

📧 bgesgroup@gmail.com

🌐 https://www.bgesgroup.com

Contractors: You build New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Let us help protect what you’ve built — the right way.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation Insurance for New York Contractors with Employees Working Out of State

Workers’ compensation insurance is essential for New York contractors—especially when employees are working across state lines. This coverage protects both the employer and the employee in the event of workplace injuries, ensuring medical expenses and lost wages are covered. However, when employees work out of state for extended periods, workers’ compensation becomes more complex.

Below, we explore three common scenarios involving New York contractors with employees working out of state, and how workers’ compensation insurance applies in each case.


Scenario 1: Office in New York, Worker Lives in New York, Injury Occurs in New York

In this straightforward situation, the employer’s office and the worker’s residence are in New York, and the injury occurs on a job site within the state. New York workers’ compensation laws apply.

Key Points:

  • The worker is entitled to benefits under New York workers’ compensation laws.
  • The employer’s policy, assuming it covers New York, will handle the claim.
  • No additional cross-state coverage is needed.

Scenario 2: Office in New York, Worker Lives in New York, Injury Occurs in New Jersey

In this case, both the office and the worker’s residence are in New York, but the injury occurs on a job site in New Jersey. Although the worker is covered under New York’s workers’ compensation policy, New Jersey laws may come into play—especially if the employee seeks benefits there.

Key Points:

  • New York workers’ compensation coverage generally applies, but the worker may also pursue a claim under New Jersey law.
  • It’s critical for the employer to ensure their policy extends coverage to New Jersey.
  • The policy must clearly state out-of-state coverage to avoid claim denials or legal issues.

Scenario 3: Office in New York, Worker Lives in New Jersey, Injury Occurs in New Jersey

This scenario is the most complex. The employer is based in New York, but the employee lives and is injured in New Jersey. Due to the worker’s residence and the injury’s location, they may be eligible to file under New Jersey’s workers’ compensation system.

Key Points:

  • The employee may file a claim under New Jersey law.
  • Employers must ensure their policy includes out-of-state employee coverage, particularly for New Jersey.
  • Failing to have proper coverage can lead to uncovered claims and legal consequences.

Why Choose BGES Group for Your Workers’ Compensation Needs?

Navigating workers’ compensation across state lines is challenging—but BGES Group is here to help. We specialize in workers’ compensation insurance and understand the nuances of multi-state coverage. Whether your employees are in New York, New Jersey, or elsewhere, we’ll help you find a policy that offers the protection you need.

Unsure if your current policy covers your situation? Looking to switch providers? Contact Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or email bgesgroup@gmail.com to get answers and options.


What Clients and Contractors Are Saying About BGES Group

Here are five real testimonials from clients and professionals who have turned to BGES Group for help:

  1. Nick C.“Gary was super helpful and got me a workers’ comp quote in minutes. Highly recommend BGES Group. And he’s funny!”
  2. Tom C.“Gary did a great job. He sent me multiple quotes for my comp insurance and advised which one would be best for my company. Thank you—I appreciate the assistance.”
  3. Kevin M.“Gary Wallach of BGES Group is amazing. He helped me insure my construction project and made it easy. Not only did he save me money, but he also got me the exact coverage I needed. A great guy—highly recommend him for all your insurance needs.”
  4. Seamus R.“You can’t ask for anyone more genuinely helpful than Gary. I was stuck dealing with huge national companies and didn’t know what to do. Gary jumped in and sorted it out. A wealth of knowledge—and a really nice guy. THANKS GARY!”
  5. Lawrence A.“Gary is a one-of-a-kind broker. He responds to our emails right away and always works hard to find the right policy. It’s a pleasure working with him—he’s always there when you need him.”

Contact BGES Group Today

When it comes to protecting your business and employees, trust the specialists. Call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853, email bgesgroup@gmail.com, or visit www.bgesgroup.com to get started today.


BGES Group is one of the Tri-State area’s leading construction insurance specialists, representing 50+ companies and offering the best general and umbrella liability programs. We provide all necessary coverage, including:

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

We go beyond the policies we provide—offering dedicated service via call, text, or email, even on weekends. We understand how important your business is, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.


Special Workers’ Compensation Programs Available

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners. Whether you’re facing:

  • High rates
  • Policy cancellations
  • Claims issues
  • Misclassified payrolls
  • Audit disputes

We can help!

We offer exclusive programs for:

  • Auto Services
  • Contractors (especially in New York)
  • Limousine Services
  • Logistics Companies
  • Manufacturers
  • Recyclers
  • Truckers

As Preferred Agents for one top-rated program, we can provide excellent pricing, long-term stability, and multi-state coverage—plus simplified audits.


Contact Information

Company: BGES Group
Address: 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538
Email: bgesgroup@gmail.com
Phone: 914-806-5853
Website: www.bgesgroup.com
© 2024 BGES Group – All rights reserved.

Are You Really Covered? The Hidden Gaps in Additional Insured Coverage for NY Contractors

In the world of New York construction, liability coverage can be tricky — and expensive — if you don’t understand the fine print of your insurance policy. Every contractor knows that general contractors (GCs) require subcontractors to provide certificates of insurance showing that they are named as additional insureds. But what many subcontractors don’t realize is that their liability policies may only cover the GC — and not the other parties required by the contract, such as the property owner, the bank, or its officers and assigns. This is especially true when the policy includes certain blanket additional insured endorsements that rely on strict “privity of contract.”

Blanket Endorsements Only Go So Far

When a subcontractor purchases a commercial general liability (CGL) or excess/umbrella policy through a surplus lines insurer, it’s common for the policy to include endorsements such as:

CG 20 10 – Additional Insured – Ongoing Operations

CG 20 37 – Additional Insured – Completed Operations

CG 20 38 – Additional Insured – Automatic Status for Other Parties

These are blanket endorsements — which means that instead of naming each additional insured individually, they automatically provide coverage to parties with whom the named insured has a written contract requiring such coverage.

Here’s where many subcontractors get burned:

If a subcontractor signs a contract only with the GC, then only the GC may qualify as an additional insured under these endorsements. That means the property owner, bank, developer, or any other upstream party mentioned in the contract may not be covered — unless there is a separate written agreement between the subcontractor and each of those entities.

A Common Scenario

Let’s say you’re a subcontractor hired to do renovation work on a commercial building in New York City. The GC gives you a subcontract that requires you to name the GC, the property owner, the lender, and its officers and assigns as additional insureds for both ongoing and completed operations. You send your certificate of insurance over, and the GC checks the box. You think you’re all set.

Later, a post-completion claim arises — someone is injured due to alleged defects in your work. The building owner and lender are sued. They look to your insurance for defense and indemnity. You assume they’re covered.

But they’re not.

Your CG 20 37 form only extends completed operations coverage to parties with whom you have a direct written contract. And since you only signed with the GC — not the owner or lender — they are not additional insureds under your policy.

This exposes you to massive potential liability, legal headaches, and strained business relationships.

How to Fix This: Get Everyone to Sign a Simple Agreement

Before entering into a contract, it is critical that all required parties sign a simple written agreement with the subcontractor stating that the subcontractor is required to provide additional insured coverage. This ensures they are brought into privity of contract, which activates coverage under blanket endorsements like CG 20 10, CG 20 37, and CG 20 38.

Here’s a basic sample of the kind of agreement you can use:

SIMPLE ADDITIONAL INSURED AGREEMENT

(For use with Blanket Additional Insured Endorsements)

Note: This is not legal advice. Have your attorney review this form before use.

This Agreement is made and entered into on [Date], by and between:

Subcontractor: [Name, Address]

General Contractor: [Name, Address]

Property Owner: [Name, Address]

Lender/Bank: [Name, Address]

Other Additional Parties (if any): [Name, Address]

WHEREAS, the Subcontractor has entered into an agreement with the General Contractor to perform work at [Project Address];

WHEREAS, the General Contractor’s agreement with the Subcontractor requires the Subcontractor to provide additional insured status to the General Contractor, Property Owner, Lender/Bank, and any other designated parties for both ongoing and completed operations under its commercial general liability and umbrella policies;

NOW, THEREFORE, it is agreed that:

1. All parties named above agree that the Subcontractor is contractually obligated to provide additional insured coverage under its commercial general liability and umbrella/excess policies, including coverage for ongoing and completed operations, per policy endorsements CG 20 10, CG 20 37, and CG 20 38 (or equivalents).

2. The parties agree that this document serves as written evidence of a direct contractual relationship for insurance purposes between the Subcontractor and each party listed, sufficient to satisfy the requirements of the additional insured endorsements referenced above.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this agreement as of the date first written above.

Subcontractor (Authorized Signatory)

General Contractor (Authorized Signatory)

Property Owner (Authorized Signatory)

Lender/Bank (Authorized Signatory)

Other Party (if applicable)

Don’t Skip This Step

It may seem like a formality, but this simple step can be the difference between full protection and total exposure. Too many subcontractors mistakenly assume that their policy’s blanket language will cover anyone mentioned in the contract. But without written privity, they could find themselves out of luck.

Review your policy endorsements carefully. If you’re unsure whether your CG 20 37 or CG 20 38 forms require direct contracts, ask your broker. And before starting any job, negotiate with your GC to ensure all upstream parties sign the agreement — or require the GC to facilitate those signatures.

BGES Group Can Help

At BGES Group, we specialize in contractor insurance throughout New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. We understand the unique challenges that local contractors face — especially when it comes to complex insurance requirements buried deep in construction contracts.

Whether you’re a subcontractor worried about additional insureds, or a GC looking to protect your project and partners, we’re here to help you get the coverage you need — without the runaround.

Contact us today:

BGES Group

Gary Wallach – Contractor Insurance Specialist

📞 914-806-5853

📧 bgesgroup@gmail.com

🌐 http://www.bgesgroup.com

Let’s make sure you’re covered — properly, completely, and affordably.

Are You Really Covered? What Every NY Subcontractor Must Know About Completed Operations

In New York’s complex construction world, subcontractors are regularly required to include multiple parties as Additional Insureds (AIs) on their Commercial General Liability (CGL) policies. But what many don’t realize — until it’s too late — is that despite providing all the right paperwork, not everyone may actually be covered.

Let’s break it down through a real-world example — and show you what you can do to protect yourself, your clients, and your reputation.

The Setup: A Standard Renovation Contract in New York

You’re a subcontractor hired by a general contractor (GC) to do interior and exterior renovation work on a commercial property in New York City.

The GC’s contract requires you to name the following as Additional Insureds:

• The General Contractor

• The Building Owner

• The Bank Financing the Project

• Any Assignees of the Owner or Bank

Coverage must apply to both:

Ongoing operations (work in progress), and

Completed operations (after your work is done)

So far, this is standard.

Your CGL policy includes these ISO forms:

CG 20 10 04 13 – Additional Insured: Ongoing Operations (requires written contract with the party)

CG 20 38 04 13 – Automatic Additional Insured: Ongoing Ops (for parties required by contract)

CG 20 37 04 13 – Additional Insured: Completed Operations (requires written contract with the party)

You issue a Certificate of Insurance and endorsements. The GC checks the boxes and sends you off to work.

But here’s the trap.

✅ Ongoing Operations – Who Is Covered?

Under CG 20 10 and CG 20 38, the following parties are generally covered while the work is in progress:

General Contractor – ✔️ Yes

Owner – ✔️ Yes

Bank & Assignees – ✔️ Yes

That’s because CG 20 38 provides automatic coverage for all entities required by written contract — even if they don’t have a direct contract with you.

So far, so good.

❌ Completed Operations – Who’s NOT Covered?

Once your work is complete and a claim arises — say, a trip and fall after job completion — only the GC is covered under CG 20 37.

Why?

Because CG 20 37 only grants Additional Insured status for completed operations to parties with a direct written agreement with you — the subcontractor.

So:

GC – ✔️ Yes

Owner – ❌ No

Bank & Assignees – ❌ No

That means the building owner or bank won’t be covered under your policy for post-construction claims unless you have a separate written agreement with them.

This creates a major liability gap and can lead to denied claims, lawsuits, and breaches of contract — even when you thought you were in compliance.

🧠 What Can You Do?

When you’re negotiating your contract with the GCyou need to get out in front of this.

Here are three ways to ensure all required parties are properly covered:

1. Get a Signed Agreement With the Owner, Bank, and Assignees

To meet CG 20 37’s requirements, ask the GC to help you facilitate a simple one-page agreement between you and the upstream parties.

This creates the “written contract” required to trigger completed operations coverage for them.

Sample Language Below ⬇️

2. Ask for Broader Blanket A.I. Endorsements

Some insurance companies (though not all) offer non-ISO Additional Insured endorsements that do not require direct contracts to extend completed ops coverage.

If you want this flexibility, BGES Group can help place you with a carrier that offers it.

3. Use a Wrap-Up (OCIP or CCIP)

If the job is large enough, an Owner-Controlled or Contractor-Controlled Insurance Program can provide project-wide coverage for all parties. This eliminates AI headaches altogether.

📄 SAMPLE AGREEMENT (To Meet CG 20 37 Requirements)

Additional Insured Agreement – Completed Operations

Between:

Subcontractor: ABC Drywall & Painting, Inc.

Owner: Midtown Capital Partners, LLC

Bank: CityWide Construction Lending, LLC

Date: July 20, 2025

1. Purpose

Subcontractor is performing renovation work at 123 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY. The Owner and Bank request to be named as additional insureds for completed operations on the Subcontractor’s Commercial General Liability policy.

2. Agreement

Subcontractor agrees to name the Owner and Bank (including their assignees) as additional insureds under endorsement CG 20 37 04 13, or equivalent, covering liability arising from completed operations.

Coverage will be provided on a primary and non-contributory basis and include a waiver of subrogation.

3. Insurance Documentation

Subcontractor shall provide a certificate of insurance showing coverage and a copy of the additional insured endorsements.

4. Term

This agreement remains effective through the applicable statute of repose for the work performed.

Signed:

ABC Drywall & Painting, Inc.

Midtown Capital Partners, LLC

CityWide Construction Lending, LLC

______

🤝 Build This Into Contract Negotiation

The time to handle this is before you sign the GC’s subcontract. During negotiations:

1. Flag the completed ops issue

2. Request the GC facilitate agreements with the owner and bank

3. Explain it’s a requirement under CG 20 37

4. Offer to provide the agreement template (like the one above)

When you handle this upfront, everyone is protected — and your business avoids legal and insurance headaches down the road.

🛡️ Who Can Help You Do This Right?

BGES Group specializes in New York construction insurance. We know what GCs want, what insurance companies require, and how to close the gaps that can ruin your business.

We help subcontractors:

• Review and negotiate insurance language in contracts

• Structure insurance programs for compliance

• Provide sample agreements and legal workarounds

• Place coverage with carriers offering broader Additional Insured endorsements

• Avoid costly post-job lawsuits

📞 Contact Us

Let’s have a quick call before your next job.

Gary Wallach

📱 914-806-5853

📧 bgesgroup@gmail.com

🌐 http://www.bgesgroup.com

A 10-minute conversation today can prevent a $500,000 problem tomorrow. Let’s make sure you’re covered — really covered — for every operation.

Avoid the Insurance Trap: 5 Do’s and Don’ts for New York Contractors Buying General & Excess Liability Coverage

If you’re a New York contractor, your commercial general liability (CGL) and excess or umbrella liability insurance policies are more than just paperwork—they’re lifelines that protect your business from devastating lawsuits, costly claims, and project shutdowns. Yet, time and time again, contractors buy the wrong policies, work with inexperienced agents, or overlook key policy details that end up costing them big.

Here’s a guide to help you avoid costly mistakes and make smart choices when buying or renewing your CGL and umbrella/excess liability insurance policies.

✅ 5 DO’s of Buying CGL and Excess Liability Insurance

1. DO Work with a Specialist in New York Construction Insurance

Not all insurance agents understand the complexities of New York’s construction liability market. Labor Law 240/241 claims, action-over exclusions, and aggressive third-party risk transfer practices make this a uniquely difficult market. Work with a broker who lives and breathes New York construction insurance—and has experience dealing with general contractors, project owners, and certificate requests.

2. DO Review Subcontractor Risk Transfer Language Carefully

If you hire subcontractors, make sure your policy supports risk transfer properly. Look for policies that provide additional insured status via endorsements like CG2010 (11/85 or equivalent), CG2037, and CG2038. You’ll also want waiver of subrogation and primary and non-contributory language to meet most GC and project requirements.

3. DO Make Sure Your Excess or Umbrella Policy Truly Follows Form

Your umbrella or excess liability policy should match (or “follow form” over) your underlying general liability policy. Many low-cost excess policies exclude key coverages or drop down in ways that don’t protect you. Make sure your umbrella includes action-over protection, covers additional insureds, and follows your general liability terms without nasty surprises.

4. DO Understand the Rating Basis and Premium Drivers

Your general liability premium is often based on payroll or subcontractor costs. Umbrella policies are typically rated off of the underlying limits and the nature of your operations. Track your payroll and subcontractor costs accurately, and communicate changes to your broker to avoid surprises at audit or renewal.

5. DO Get a Written Review of Exclusions and Endorsements

You need to know what your policy covers—and what it doesn’t. Ask your broker for a plain-English summary of key endorsements and exclusions. Pay close attention to:

Labor Law exclusions

Residential exclusions

Roofing exclusions

Height limitations

Subcontractor warranty clauses

A five-minute review could save your business from a $1 million claim denial.

❌ 5 DON’Ts of Buying CGL and Excess Liability Insurance

1. DON’T Buy Based on Price Alone

The cheapest policy is rarely the best. That $10,000 policy might have exclusions that could put you out of business after one claim. Always compare coverage first, price second.

2. DON’T Assume All Policies Include Action-Over Coverage

Labor Law 240/241 exposes contractors to strict liability when a worker falls from a height. Action-over claims—when a worker sues the owner or GC, who then sues you—can cost millions. Many budget policies exclude action-over protection, even in general and excess layers. If it’s not explicitly included, assume it’s excluded.

3. DON’T Ignore Subcontractor Coverage Requirements

If your subs are not properly insured, or you don’t collect and track COIs correctly, your own policy could be on the hook for their mistakes. Worse, you could be surcharged or denied renewal. Your policy should clearly state coverage for subcontracted work, and you need a system to verify your subs’ coverage.

4. DON’T Overlook Your Certificate Requests

If you’re constantly being asked for COIs with custom wording or endorsements, you need a broker who understands compliance. Some carriers won’t issue certain endorsements, causing project delays or disqualification. Don’t wait until you’ve been rejected by a GC—get your certificates reviewed up front.

5. DON’T Trust That Your Policy Will Be Accepted Everywhere

Just because you have insurance doesn’t mean it will be accepted by every general contractor, municipality, or project owner. Carriers like Atlantic Casualty, Lloyd’s of London (some programs), or certain surplus lines policies are often rejected due to limited coverage, poor claims history, or incomplete forms. Ask your broker if your policy is “widely accepted” before binding.

Why Smart Contractors Choose BGES Group

At BGES Group, we specialize in New York construction insurance, including general liability, excess liability, workers’ compensation, and commercial auto. With decades of experience in the Tri-State area, we know the carriers, know the policies, and most importantly—know what can go wrong.

We don’t just sell policies—we help you build a risk management program that protects your business, wins you more work, and keeps your clients happy. Whether you’re a GC in Manhattan, a subcontractor in Yonkers, or a drywall contractor in Long Island, we’ve got your back.

We work with contractors in:

New York

New Jersey

Connecticut

• And via our trusted partners, across the U.S.

We handle all types of contractors including tough classes of business:

• Asbestos

• Roofing

• Concrete

• Drywall

• Masonry

• Residential work

• Mixed-use and commercial renovations

Our Services Include:

• General liability & excess/umbrella policies

• Workers’ compensation and pay-as-you-go plans

• Commercial auto and inland marine

• Certificate management

• Claims guidance and loss control

Contact BGES Group Today

Stop wasting time with agents who don’t return calls or leave you hanging at audit time.

📞 Gary Wallach – Owner

📱 914-806-5853

📧 bgesgroup@gmail.com

🌐 http://www.bgesgroup.com

Protect your business like a pro. Call BGES Group today.

NY Contractors: Tired of Workers Comp Audit Headaches? There’s a Smarter Way

If you’re a New York contractor dealing with workers’ compensation insurance, chances are you’ve experienced at least one of the following frustrations:

• Surprise audit bills charging you 50% more than you expected

• Premiums skyrocketing because payroll isn’t being properly separated

• Endless hours chasing down records for audits or certified payrolls

• Stress trying to prove to insurance companies that your numbers are accurate

You’re not alone. These issues are all too common in the New York construction industry. But what if we told you there’s a better way—one that saves you time, money, and stress?

Let’s break it down.

The Problem: Workers Comp Audits in NY Are a Nightmare

New York contractors are under the gun when it comes to workers comp audits. Insurers don’t play around when it’s time to reconcile your actual payroll against the estimate.

We hear it every day from contractors:

• “They hit me with a 50% charge at audit!”

• “They lumped all my payroll into the highest-rated class code!”

• “I have no time to track all this, I’m running jobs!”

These are real complaints from real contractors. And it’s not always your fault. Your insurance company may be using outdated estimates, or you may not have the time or tools to break out payrolls by job, employee, or class code. And if you’re doing wrap-up work, the audit and reporting requirements are even more complicated.

The Solution: A Program That Combines Payroll & Workers Comp

Imagine this: your workers comp insurance is bundled together with your payroll service. That means all the data that the insurance carrier needs—for audits, classifications, and even certified payroll—is automatically accurate and organized.

That’s the kind of program we’re offering.

Here’s how it works:

Payroll and workers compensation are managed together under one system. Class codes are correctly applied to each worker based on the job and job site. Certified payroll reports are generated with ease. Wrap-up projects are easily tracked with clean record separation. And most importantly—there are no surprises at audit time because they already have the real numbers.

You may not even be required to do a formal annual audit. That’s right—when your payroll and workers comp are fully integrated, the insurance company already has what they need.

What Makes This So Powerful?

In a traditional setup, you deal with manual audits that waste time, risk class code errors that cost thousands, and force you to do all the legwork yourself. Certified payroll is a burden, and wrap-up or OCIP payrolls can turn into complete chaos if not tracked separately.

But with this integrated system, everything is automated and done for you. You’re no longer the middleman between the job site and the insurance company. All the reports are built-in. The numbers are accurate. Time is saved. Mistakes are minimized. You regain control of your business operations without the administrative headaches.

This is not a gimmick. It’s a tested and trusted approach that contractors around the country are using to eliminate audit stress, reduce premiums, and free up their time.

But What If You Only Work in NY?

BGES Group is based in New York and we’ve been workers compensation specialists for over 30 years. We’ve worked with hundreds of contractors in the tri-state area—New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. We know the rules, the audits, the classifications, and the common pitfalls.

But we’ve also partnered with an experienced associate who can assist contractors in all 50 states with this integrated program. That means whether you’re a GC in Manhattan or a subcontractor on a project in Florida, Texas, or California, we can get you set up with a system that works.

Benefits at a Glance

Here are 10 reasons why you should consider switching to this smarter solution:

1. No more audit nightmares – real-time payroll data makes audits unnecessary or easy

2. Avoid premium overcharges – correct class codes from the start

3. Certified payroll handled – meet government project requirements with ease

4. Clean wrap-up reporting – separate job records for OCIP/CCIP projects

5. Time savings – eliminate hours spent preparing audit documents

6. Cost control – pay premiums based on actual payroll, not inflated estimates

7. Simplicity – one system handles payroll and comp together

8. Flexibility – works for both union and non-union contractors

9. Support – ongoing help from insurance and payroll experts

10. Scalability – great for small contractors and large firms alike

Why BGES Group?

We’re not just another insurance broker. BGES Group specializes in construction and workers compensation. We know what NY contractors face every day, and we know how to make your life easier.

Whether you’re dealing with a tough audit, overcharges, class code confusion, or certified payroll issues, we can help you implement a better system that’s tailored to the way your business actually works.

We serve the New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut markets directly. And for this special program, our associate can help contractors in any state across the U.S.

Let’s Talk

If you’re tired of getting crushed at audit time, fed up with paperwork, or just want a more efficient and accurate way to manage your workers compensation insurance, give us a call.

We’ll walk you through how the program works and see if it’s a fit for your business.

Contact BGES Group:

Gary Wallach

Phone: 914-806-5853

Email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

Website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

Don’t let another audit or overcharge drain your profits. There’s a smarter way to handle workers comp—and it starts with a simple conversation.

Let BGES Group show you how to protect your business, streamline your operations, and finally take control of your workers compensation insurance.

Sick of Crappy Insurance Service? NY Contractors Deserve Better – Here’s How to Get It

If you’re a contractor Why is my insurance agent impossible to reach when I need them most?”

Or maybe this sounds familiar:

• “They charged me policy and service fees I didn’t even know about.”

• “Every time I call, I get a different account manager.”

• “It takes them forever to send out a certificate.”

• “They only call me when they want to renew my policy—or sell me something.”

Unfortunately, this is the standard experience for far too many contractors when it comes to their liability and workers compensation insurance.

You’re not asking for much—just someone who actually knows what they’re doing, answers the phone, helps when there’s an issue, and takes care of you like your business matters. Is that really too much to expect?

10 Complaints NY Contractors Have About Their Insurance Agencies

Here’s what we hear all the time from frustrated contractors:

1. No one answers the phone – You’re left chasing down your agent when you’re on a job and need help fast.

2. Delayed certificates of insurance – You lose out on jobs because the COI takes days to arrive.

3. No construction expertise – Your agent doesn’t understand how your policies work or what endorsements you really need.

4. Account executive turnover – The person handling your account keeps changing, and no one knows your business.

5. Hidden policy and service fees – You’re paying extra for “services” that should already be included.

6. Wrong classifications and audit issues – You’re overpaying or being hit with surprise bills at audit time.

7. Lack of proactive service – Your agent never checks in or offers suggestions to improve your coverage or pricing.

8. Poor claim support – When something goes wrong, you’re on your own dealing with the insurance company.

9. Overpriced policies – You’re not shopping the market, and your premiums are climbing each year.

10. General indifference – You feel like just another number in a huge agency that doesn’t care.

Does any of this sound familiar?

If so, it’s time for a change.

Meet BGES Group – The Insurance Partner You’ve Been Looking For

At BGES Group, we built our agency around solving all the problems listed above. Our mission is simple: Provide contractors with expert-level service, hands-on support, and honest, fair pricing—every single day.

We’ve been working with New York contractors for over 44 years. This is not a side hustle. Construction is our specialty. From general contractors to subcontractors in trades like masonry, carpentry, drywall, electrical, plumbing, excavation, roofing, and more—we know the coverages you need and the exposures you face.

Here’s what you get with BGES Group that you don’t get anywhere else:

Fast, responsive service. You call—we pick up. You text—we answer. You email—we reply. Same day. Often within minutes.

Certificates of Insurance in minutes. Not hours. Not days. You need to get on a job—we get it done.

Construction insurance expertise. You’ll talk to someone who actually knows New York liability and workers comp, including contract requirements, policy forms, class codes, and audit processes.

No service or policy fees. Ever. We make our money from the insurance companies—not by nickel-and-diming our clients.

Stable account management. Your contact doesn’t change every few months. You deal with one point of contact who knows your account inside and out.

Year-round support. We don’t just show up at renewal. We’re here all year to help with audits, changes, claims, contracts, and anything else you need.

Aggressive pricing. We shop the market and know which carriers are giving the best deals to contractors—so you’re not overpaying.

Help with audits and claims. We guide you through audits to avoid surprise charges and support you if a claim arises.

Help with wrap-up, OCIP, and high-risk policies. We know how to handle the tough stuff other agents don’t want to deal with.

A real relationship. We care about your business, and we act like it.

We Handle Both Liability and Workers Compensation—The Right Way

Too many agencies just throw policies together without explaining anything. We don’t work like that.

• For General Liability, we ensure you’re using the correct class codes, covered for subcontracted work, and not exposed to unnecessary exclusions (like labor law, residential exclusions, or action-over).

• For Workers Compensation, we’ll make sure your payroll is properly classified, help you avoid big audit bills, and connect you with pay-as-you-go or bundled payroll/comp solutions if you need them.

Not Just NY—We’ve Got You Covered Nationwide

BGES Group is based in New York and focuses heavily on the tri-state area (New York, New Jersey, Connecticut). But if you work in other states, or are expanding your operations, we can still help. In fact, for certain specialty programs—like combined payroll/workers comp setups—we work with partners who can assist contractors in all 50 states.

You Deserve Better—Let’s Talk

If you’re tired of insurance agents who don’t return your calls, give you the runaround, and make insurance more stressful than it needs to be, it’s time to see what a real construction insurance specialist can do for you.

We’ll review your current coverage, explain what you’re really paying for, and let you know if you’re getting a fair deal. There’s no pressure and no obligation—just solid advice from a team that knows your business and cares about helping contractors succeed.

Contact BGES Group Today:

Gary Wallach

📱 Phone: 914-806-5853

📧 Email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

🌐 Website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

You don’t have to settle for slow service, confusing policies, or agents who disappear after they sell you a policy. At BGES Group, we do insurance the right way—fast, honest, and built for contractors like you.

Make the switch and see the difference for yourself.

Let BGES Group be the last insurance partner you ever need.

Why More Businesses Are Turning to Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) for Payroll and Workers’ Compensation

Running a business today comes with plenty of responsibilities — and when it comes to managing payroll, workers’ compensation insurance, and keeping up with employment law compliance, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why more business owners are partnering with Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) to help them take control of these essential but time-consuming areas.

In this article, we’ll explain what a PEO is, how they handle payroll and workers’ compensation, why they make life easier when it comes to audits, how they simplify certified payroll reporting, and give you 10 valuable reasons to consider joining a PEO. Finally, we’ll introduce you to BGES Group — a trusted advisor helping businesses like yours access the best PEO and insurance solutions.

What Is a Professional Employer Organization (PEO)?

A Professional Employer Organization (PEO) is a company that partners with businesses to provide a full range of human resources services through a co-employment relationship. This means while you continue to manage your employees and business operations, the PEO takes over key administrative functions such as payroll, tax filings, employee benefits administration, HR support, and workers’ compensation coverage.

In this setup, the PEO becomes the employer of record for tax and insurance purposes, while you retain control over hiring, job duties, and daily management of your workforce. It’s a relationship designed to relieve business owners of administrative headaches while giving them access to resources typically reserved for larger companies.

How PEOs Handle Payroll and Workers’ Compensation

Payroll Services

One of the core services a PEO provides is payroll processing and administration. Here’s how it works:

  • You submit employee hours, salaries, commissions, and bonuses to the PEO.
  • The PEO processes payroll, calculates withholdings, and handles tax deductions for federal, state, and local taxes.
  • They issue paychecks or direct deposits to employees.
  • The PEO takes care of quarterly and year-end tax filings, W-2s, and garnishments.
  • Many PEOs also handle time-off tracking, PTO accruals, and benefits deductions automatically through their payroll system.

Certified payroll reporting is another area where PEOs shine. For contractors working on government-funded projects, certified payroll is required to track and report employee wages, job classifications, and benefits on public works projects. PEOs manage certified payroll with ease, generating and submitting the necessary reports in the correct format and on schedule — a huge time-saver for contractors.

Workers’ Compensation Management

PEOs also offer workers’ compensation insurance through their master policy, covering your employees under their plan. Here’s what the PEO handles for you:

  • Securing and maintaining workers’ comp coverage
  • Reporting and managing workplace injury claims
  • Coordinating medical care and return-to-work plans
  • Providing workplace safety resources and risk management support
  • Handling premium audits on your behalf

Because PEOs pool thousands of employees under one policy, they can negotiate lower rates and better coverage options than small businesses typically find on their own.

How PEOs Make Life Easier When It Comes to Audits

Ask any business owner what one of their least favorite tasks is, and you’ll hear about insurance audits. Audits, especially for workers’ compensation, require extensive payroll records, certificates of insurance, and job classification reports. If your paperwork isn’t perfect, you could end up with penalties or unexpected premium bills.

Here’s where a PEO makes a massive difference:

Since the PEO runs your payroll and maintains all payroll-related records — including gross wages, job classifications, overtime, and tax withholdings — they already have everything auditors need. There’s very little you need to provide because the PEO tracks payroll, benefits, and workers’ comp details in real-time.

When audit season rolls around:

  • The PEO prepares the audit paperwork
  • Provides wage and payroll summaries
  • Submits required tax forms
  • Participates directly in the audit

As a result, your audit becomes a non-event. No scrambling for records, no hours of lost productivity, no nasty surprises.

10 Key Benefits of Joining a PEO

1️⃣ Simplified, Accurate Payroll Processing

PEOs process payroll for you — calculating wages, handling taxes, and issuing paychecks or direct deposits on time.

2️⃣ Certified Payroll Reporting Made Easy

For government contractors, certified payroll is mandatory. PEOs generate and submit these reports accurately and on schedule, keeping your projects compliant and running smoothly.

3️⃣ Competitive Workers’ Compensation Rates

By bundling your coverage under their master policy, PEOs often deliver better workers’ comp rates than small businesses can find independently.

4️⃣ Stress-Free Audits

Since PEOs already handle your payroll and insurance, they manage the audit process for you — with little to no work on your end.

5️⃣ HR and Compliance Support

Employment laws are constantly changing. PEOs keep you compliant with federal, state, and local regulations and provide expert HR support.

6️⃣ High-Quality Employee Benefits

Through the PEO, your employees gain access to health insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement plans typically available only to large corporations.

7️⃣ Workers’ Compensation Claims Management

PEOs handle injury claims, coordinate medical care, and oversee return-to-work programs, reducing your administrative burden and limiting claim costs.

8️⃣ No Large Upfront Premium Deposits

Workers’ comp premiums through a PEO are typically paid on a pay-as-you-go basis with each payroll, improving your cash flow and avoiding big deposits.

9️⃣ Risk Management Resources

PEOs provide safety training programs, OSHA compliance tools, and on-site safety assessments to help reduce workplace accidents and claims.

🔟 Focus on Running Your Business

With payroll, benefits, workers’ comp, and HR compliance off your plate, you can dedicate more time to growing your business and serving your customers.

Why Work with BGES Group?

At BGES Group, we specialize in helping contractors, construction firms, and businesses of all kinds find the right PEO programs and insurance solutions to protect their operations and improve cash flow.

If your business struggles with:

  • High workers’ comp rates
  • Time-consuming payroll and certified payroll reporting
  • Complicated audits
  • Employment law compliance issues
  • Lack of competitive employee benefits

We can help.

We work with several of the industry’s top PEO providers and can connect you with a program tailored to your business’s size, industry, and needs. And if a PEO isn’t the right fit, we offer outstanding standalone workers’ comp programs and business insurance options, too.

Contact BGES Group Today!

Take the stress out of payroll, workers’ compensation, certified payroll, and insurance audits. Reach out today for a free, no-obligation evaluation.

📞 Call Gary Wallach at (914) 806-5853

📧 Email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

🌐 Visit: www.bgesgroup.com

Let BGES Group help you find the right PEO program — saving you time, money, and headaches while protecting your business and your employees.

Building Smart: The Complete Insurance Blueprint for New York General Contractors Who Sub Out Work

In New York’s complex construction landscape, general contractors face a mountain of liability—even when subcontracting most of the work. Just because you’re not swinging the hammer doesn’t mean you’re free of responsibility. In fact, if you’re a GC who subs out a large percentage of your work, your insurance portfolio needs to be airtight—and expertly structured—to protect you from the massive financial and legal risks that come with every project.

From Labor Law claims to subcontractor mistakes, contractual pitfalls, and environmental exposures, the insurance requirements for a New York general contractor go far beyond basic coverage. This article outlines the must-have policies, the hidden risks of subcontracting, and how a trusted partner like BGES Group can help you build with confidence across the Tri-State Area.


1. Commercial General Liability (CGL): Your Primary Safety Net

Every general contractor needs a robust Commercial General Liability (CGL) policy. This is your first line of defense against claims of:

  • Bodily injury
  • Property damage
  • Completed operations incidents
  • Personal and advertising injury

But here’s the catch—many CGL policies are written with exclusions or limitations that can leave you exposed, especially when you’re subbing out a large percentage of the work.


2. Subcontractor Documentation and Hammer Clauses: The Deal-Breaker

Most contractors understand the importance of requiring insurance from their subcontractors—but few realize that your own CGL policy can deny a claim if documentation isn’t in place before work starts.

This is where soft and hard hammer clauses come in:

  • A soft hammer clause might reduce your insurer’s liability if you failed to collect proper insurance documents from a sub.
  • A hard hammer clause could result in a full denial of coverage, even if the subcontractor was at fault.

If your subcontractor doesn’t provide a valid certificate of insurance, name you as an additional insured, include primary & non-contributory wording, and sign a hold harmless/indemnification agreement—you could be paying a claim out of pocket.

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3. Labor Law 240/241 Coverage: The New York Danger Zone

New York’s infamous Labor Laws 240 and 241, also known as the “Scaffold Law,” place absolute liability on general contractors and property owners for gravity-related injuries—even if the injured worker was employed by a subcontractor and partially at fault.

If your CGL policy excludes Labor Law coverage—or if your subcontractor was uninsured or undocumented—you’re on the hook.

Many standard policies either limit or exclude Labor Law claims. You must work with a broker who understands how to ensure you’re covered and your subs are properly vetted.


4. Liability Limits: How Much Is Enough?

Given the scale of potential lawsuits in New York, minimum liability limits should be:

  • $1 million per occurrence
  • $2 million general aggregate
  • $2 million completed operations aggregate
  • $1 million personal/advertising injury

However, for contractors involved in larger projects, it’s smart to carry an umbrella or excess liability policy of $2 million to $10 million+. One Labor Law claim or serious injury can easily exceed standard policy limits.


5. Professional Liability (Contractors E&O): Your Hidden Exposure

Many GCs don’t realize they can be held liable for design errors, miscommunication, or project management decisions—even if they didn’t perform the work themselves.

A Professional Liability (Contractors E&O) policy protects you from claims related to:

  • Project oversight mistakes
  • Improper change orders
  • Misinterpretation of blueprints/specs
  • Design-build work

If you’re involved in design delegation or construction management, this coverage is critical.


6. Pollution Liability: Don’t Let Environmental Hazards Sink You

Whether it’s mold, asbestos, fuel spills, or hazardous materials from demolition work, pollution-related incidents are often excluded from standard liability policies.

Contractor’s Pollution Liability (CPL) protects against:

  • Cleanup costs
  • Legal fees
  • Third-party bodily injury/property damage

Even if your subs are the ones generating the pollution, you can still be liable as the GC.


7. Business Auto Insurance: More Than Just Vans and Trucks

If your company owns vehicles—or even if employees use their personal vehicles for work-related tasks—you need Business Auto Insurance. This policy should include:

  • Liability coverage
  • Physical damage
  • Hired and non-owned auto coverage (HNOA)

HNOA is especially important if your team uses rented vehicles or their personal cars for business, such as site visits or materials delivery.

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8. Workers’ Compensation & NYS Disability: State-Mandated Protection

If you employ anyone directly—even administrative staff—you must carry:

  • Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Covers job-related injuries and illnesses.
  • New York State Disability Benefits Law (DBL): Covers off-the-job injuries and short-term disability for employees.

Non-compliance can lead to steep fines, lawsuits, and criminal penalties.

Even if you use mostly subcontractors, having the proper classification and coverage in place is crucial to avoid penalties during audits.


9. Bid & Performance Bonds: Winning and Securing Work

To win public or large private contracts, many project owners require:

  • Bid Bonds: Guarantees that you’ll enter into the contract if awarded.
  • Performance Bonds: Guarantees project completion per the contract terms.

A good bonding relationship also enhances your credibility and helps you qualify for more lucrative jobs. BGES Group can help you secure these bonds and manage your bonding capacity.


10. Group Health Insurance: Attract and Retain Skilled Labor

With a shortage of skilled construction workers, offering group health insurance can help you attract and retain top talent. Plans can be tailored for:

  • Office staff
  • Field employees
  • Owner/operators

Providing benefits not only boosts morale—it reduces turnover and can improve productivity.


11. Why Choose BGES Group?

At BGES Group, we specialize in construction insurance for general contractors and subcontractors, particularly those operating in high-liability regions like New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

We understand the challenges of managing subcontractor risk, navigating Labor Law exposure, and building an insurance program that actually responds when you need it most.

Our services include:

  • Customized policy design
  • Subcontractor documentation review
  • Risk management consulting
  • Claims assistance
  • Fast, personalized service

We’ve helped countless contractors stay protected, compliant, and competitive in one of the toughest construction markets in the country.


12. Service Area

BGES Group proudly serves contractors throughout the Tri-State Area, including:

  • New York
  • New Jersey
  • Connecticut

13. Contact BGES Group Today

Whether you’re building from the ground up or managing complex renovation projects, let BGES Group help you build a safer, stronger foundation for your business.

📞 Phone: (914) 806-5853 – Gary Wallach

📧 Email: info@bgesgroup.com

🌐 Website: www.bgesgroup.com


Final Word: Don’t Let One Mistake Wreck Your Business

Subcontracting doesn’t mean transferring risk—it just changes how it must be managed. Without the right insurance policies, contract controls, and documentation processes, one accident, one claim, or one oversight could put your entire business at risk.

Let BGES Group help you protect what you’ve built—so you can keep building, smarter and safer.