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Excess and Surplus Lines Builders Risk Insurance for Complex Projects

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Excess and Surplus Lines
Overview
Highlights
FAQs
Eligibility
Project Examples
Quote
Resources

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Overview

When your insured’s course of construction risk is valued over $10M and requires a specialized solution that the admitted insurance market cannot provide, US Assure contracted retail agents and wholesale brokers can access builders risk insurance through the best non-admitted insurance companies rated A or better by AM Best — giving you even more coverage solutions and revenue-earning potential with no minimum commitment required.

Highlights

• Countrywide availability
• Primary and excess DIC capacity for flood, wind and earthquake
• Single risk policy term up to 36 months with the option to extend (additional underwriting required)
• Fully earned premium in most CAT areas
• Partially completed projects under construction accepted

Appetite Guide Builders Risk Plan Insured By Zurich

Excess and Surplus Lines Appetite Guide

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FAQs

What is excess and surplus (E&S) insurance?

Excess and surplus (E&S) insurance is a specialized type of coverage provided by non-admitted carriers for risks that the standard, admitted insurance market cannot accommodate. These risks often involve unique exposures, high-value projects or complex circumstances that fall outside traditional underwriting guidelines. E&S insurers have more flexibility in policy terms and pricing, allowing them to craft customized solutions for challenging or unusual risks. While they are not regulated in the same way as admitted carriers, E&S insurers must still meet financial strength requirements and are typically rated by agencies like AM Best.

When should I use E&S coverage instead of the standard insurance market?

E&S coverage is appropriate when a risk cannot be placed with an admitted carrier due to its size, complexity or location. Common scenarios include:

• High-value construction projects exceeding admitted market limits
• Unique or specialized risks such as wood-frame buildings in CAT-prone areas
• Projects requiring broader coverage options, like primary and excess DIC for flood, wind or earthquake
• Flexible policy terms beyond standard offerings, such as extended durations or partially completed projects

Do I need a surplus lines broker to access this coverage?

As a licensed surplus lines broker, US Assure E&S is able to offer these products and manage surplus lines filings for retail agencies, with exception of IL, KY, MT and SD where access is limited to wholesale brokers.

What are the compliance requirements for surplus lines placement?

Most states require a diligent search of the admitted market, typically obtaining three declinations, before placing coverage with a non-admitted insurer.

Eligibility

Eligible Risks and Values
• Commercial and residential projects
• New ground up construction valued over $10M
• Renovations valued over $20M; existing structure coverage available with no age restriction
• Wood frame and joisted masonry construction valued up $35M
• Superior construction up to $50M

Ineligible Risks
• Energy and chemical classes, offshore risk, heavy manufacturing, mines, railroad, and infrastructure over water

Project Examples

• Multifamily developments
• High-value single family
• Institutions, including schools, hospitals, senior housing, etc.
• Offices, retail and mixed-use buildings
• Military/public entities, including parks and recreational spaces
• Hospitality
• Warehouses
• Electric vehicle charging stations
• Water and sewage treatment facilities

Application and Quote

Get a builders risk insurance quote today — fast turnaround and nationwide access
Submit your application online. If declined by our standard market, your application may be manually reviewed and quoted with an E&S underwriter, typically within 72 hours. Additional information may be requested.