In today’s post-boom construction environment, claims by project owners of construction defects, wrongful or otherwise, are all too common. Because the potential for damages and litigation expense associated with such claims can be substantial, a contractor would do well to have a working knowledge of his rights and responsibilities under a commercial general liability (“CGL”) insurance policy, especially the carrier’s “duty to defend”.

This information is being presented from the Contractor’s vantage point. Hopefully, this will also provide valuable information for any design professional seeking to gain greater knowledge and information regarding the risk management concerns that apply to a Design/Build project led by a construction firm.

Many of today’s mergers and acquisitions have hidden risks, which, if unaddressed, could prove financially fatal years after a deal is completed.

The Florida Legislature recently passed a new law that allows state agencies, as of October 1, 2004, to purchase owner-controlled insurance in connection with a public construction project, if necessary and in the best interest of the public agency.

Firms which decide to participate in the “Design/Build” Construction Delivery System agree to both construct and design the project.

This topic has always created a dilemma for contractors, design professionals and their insurance agents.