
Contractors All Risks Insurance
Protect every part of your building project from start to finish. Townsend McCormack looks at your specific building works to find a contractors all risks (CAR) safety net that fits your budget.
Protect every part of your building project from start to finish
Your construction projects become more secure and less stressful when a CAR insurance policy handles potential liabilities. Townsend McCormack looks at your specific building works to find a safety net that fits your budget. Get protection for hired-in plant and employees’ tools so you can finish the job without losing money.
How CAR insurance handles problems on construction sites
A contractors all risks policy is a safety net that addresses risks found on construction sites:
- Cover damage to contract works — if a fire or flood ruins the building work, the insurance pays for the repairs needed to get the project back on track. This protection covers both the permanent structure and any temporary works used during the construction period.
- Protect third party property and people — accidents often lead to third-party injury or damage to neighbouring property, which causes serious legal liability. Public liability insurance inside a CAR policy handles legal fees and compensation if a member of the public is hurt.
- Support existing structures during renovation — working on existing buildings carries the risk of damaging the original walls or floors while adding new parts. A specialist CAR policy can cover existing structures so the property owner is protected from financial loss.
- Recover funds for hired equipment — hired-in plant and hired equipment stay protected if they are stolen or suffer accidental damage while under your care. We make sure the policy covers the replacement value so the leasing company is paid without hitting your profits.
- Provide cover for employees’ tools — small items like hand tools and professional equipment often disappear from sites due to theft. Including this as an optional add-on protects workers’ property and keeps the site moving.

Townsend McCormack services vs other insurance brokers
Choose Townsend McCormack because our service addresses the gaps found elsewhere:
- Forty years of professional knowledge — many brokers rely on less experienced staff who may not fully understand the specific risks of the construction sector. Our team uses four decades of skill to find a contractors all risk policy that fits your exact building project.
- Dedicated claims support for every client — other companies leave you to handle damage claims alone when something goes wrong on site. We have a dedicated claims team that takes ownership of the process for a smooth, efficient, and fair outcome.
- Access to A-rated insurers — many providers offer non-standard cover from lower-rated insurers that might not pay out. We work with A-rated insurers so you and the property owner get protection you can trust.
- Transparent professional fees — some brokers hide additional costs in the fine print. We provide a clear breakdown of every cost so you know the bill before the policy starts.
- Support for multiple parties under one policy — common exclusions can leave a sub-contractor without cover. We arrange a CAR policy that protects the main contractor and other parties on site under one agreement where appropriate.


FAQs
What happens if the main contractor policy does not cover my tools?
You can add specific cover for employees’ tools and personal equipment to the CAR policy. We help you list these items so you can recover full value if they are stolen from the site.
Does CAR insurance cover poor workmanship found after the project ends?
Standard CAR policies cover damage during the construction period, but you may need separate cover for latent defects. We help you find protection that stays active for years after handover where available.
Can I get a CAR policy for a house extension?
Yes — CAR is well suited to projects like extensions because it can cover new work and existing structures. We find a policy that satisfies the bank or property owner before work begins.
How does a claims history affect the cost of a CAR insurance policy?
Insurers look at past damage claims when pricing your policy. We use our market relationships to find competitive terms even if you have had an insured loss in the past.
Does the policy cover damage from a flood or storm?
Yes — contractors all risk cover often includes damage from natural events such as heavy rain, high winds, or fire. That matters when the structure is open to the elements.
Who pays for the insurance on a site with multiple parties?
Usually the main contractor takes out a single policy that covers sub-contractors and the property owner. That keeps the claims process simpler when one insurer handles a loss.
How quickly can Townsend McCormack set up a risk policy?
Once we have your project details, we move quickly to arrange terms and start cover as soon as possible. We work to get certificates ready so building works can start on time. Request a quote to begin.
Do I need professional indemnity insurance alongside a CAR policy?
If your business provides designs or technical advice, professional indemnity insurance covers mistakes in that advice. We can combine it with contractors all risks into a fuller package.
Contact us for CAR cover tailored to your project and contract chain.
Disclaimer
The information on this website (townsendmccormack.co.uk) is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. It should not be used as a substitute for specific advice tailored to your individual or business circumstances.
While we strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date content, Townsend McCormack Limited makes no warranties regarding the completeness or reliability of this information. Any reliance you place on such materials is strictly at your own risk. Insurance suitability depends on unique risk factors; we recommend seeking independent professional advice before entering into any contract.
Townsend McCormack Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), FCA Register Number 163529. Registered in England and Wales (Company No. 02668820). This website and its services are intended for UK residents only.
