Design & Construct Insurance

1800 97 98 99

Finding the right insurance for your construction business can be time consuming and difficult. Shielded Insurance has a team of dedicated construction and trades risk insurance advisors ready to assist and tailor a policy to suit your needs.

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Did you know?

From 1 July 2025, holding professional indemnity insurance will become a legal requirement for certain construction professionals in New South Wales.

Not sure if the new law applies to you? Speak to the Shielded team today about how these changes may impact your compliance obligations.

Design & Construct Insurance

Protect your business from design-related risks with insurance that recognises the hybrid nature of your role.

Builder reviewing design plans on site

Why choose Shielded

Design & Construct PI Insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. We understand the overlapping risks of physical construction and professional services—and help you find cover that fits.

Construction-Specific Knowledge

Our team specialises in insurance for professionals who both build and design—ensuring your cover reflects both sides of your business.

Policy Clarity

We help you understand where your PI insurance starts, where Public Liability ends, and which gaps need attention.

Contract-Ready Cover

Many clients now expect D&C contractors to hold their own PI policy. We can assist with cover that meets those requirements.

Claims Support

From the initial dispute to final resolution, our team supports you throughout the claims process—so you’re not facing it alone.

What D&C PI Insurance can cover

Design & Construct Insurance is tailored for professionals who combine construction services with professional advice or design. Typical cover areas may include:

Design Flaws

Claims alleging inadequate or faulty design work that led to financial loss.

Incorrect Advice

Cover for professional advice that proves inaccurate or incomplete during the build process.

Consumer Law Breaches

Allegations of misleading conduct or unmet consumer guarantees under legislation like ACL.

Document Loss or Errors

Cover for misfiled, damaged or inadequate drawings, plans or reports.

Copyright or IP Breach*

Claims alleging unauthorised use of protected plans, documents or designs.

Legal Defence Costs

Expenses incurred defending a claim—even if the claim is later withdrawn or resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common concerns for builders and contractors providing design input on construction projects.

What is Design & Construct Professional Indemnity Insurance?

This type of policy is tailored for professionals who both build and provide design services. It may respond to claims of financial loss caused by poor design, inaccurate documentation, or professional oversight.

Is this different from standard PI insurance?

Yes. Standard PI policies for architects or engineers often exclude claims arising from construction activities. D&C policies are designed to bridge that gap by covering integrated design-build exposures.

Can you give a real-world example of a claim?

One contractor was asked to provide a natural grey concrete floor. After installation, the client claimed the finish would reduce the home's value. While there was no physical damage, the client sought financial compensation. This type of dispute—about the quality of professional service, not bodily harm or property loss—is typically outside the scope of public liability, but could be covered under D&C PI insurance.

Does this insurance cover subcontracted design work?

If you're legally liable for design outcomes—even if the work was subcontracted—then yes, your policy may respond. It’s important to review how subconsultants are treated in your cover.

Are contracts starting to require PI cover?

Absolutely. Many commercial and government clients now include clauses requiring PI insurance for D&C work. Holding cover could also reduce disputes or delay in tender approvals.