What Architects and Engineers Need to Know About Professional Liability Insurance
July 22, 2025
Essential Guide to Professional Liability Insurance for Architects and Engineers
In the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries, precision isn’t optional—it’s expected. But even the most detail-oriented professionals face risks that can’t always be controlled. That’s where professional liability insurance comes in.
At I.S.C.A., we specialize in helping AEC firms—from sole proprietors to multi-state operations—protect their reputation, financial stability, and client relationships with coverage that truly fits.
Why Professional Liability Insurance Matters
Unlike general liability policies, professional liability insurance (also known as errors and omissions or E&O insurance) covers the cost of defending against claims of negligence, design errors, or failure to meet contractual obligations. For architects, engineers, and land surveyors, a single claim can mean thousands in legal fees—even if the issue wasn’t your fault.
You’ve spent years building your expertise. A tailored professional liability policy helps ensure one project misstep doesn’t jeopardize your future.
What It Typically Covers
Your professional liability policy may include coverage for:
- - Legal defense and court costs
- - Alleged design or planning errors
- - Missed deadlines or cost overruns
- - Claims arising after project completion
- - Breach of contract or negligence claims
With I.S.C.A., your policy is built around the work you actually do, ensuring the coverage reflects your risk—not a generic industry standard.
Tailored Coverage for AEC Firms
Not all policies are created equal. Our team works with architects, engineers, and land surveyors nationwide to craft custom insurance solutions that:
- - Meet state licensing and contractual requirements
- - Address specific project types and exposure levels
- - Scale as your firm grows
Integrate with other essential policies like general liability and commercial auto
We also assist with annual reviews and renewals, ensuring your coverage evolves alongside your business.
When Should You Apply?
The best time to apply for professional liability insurance is before you need it. Many clients require proof of coverage before you can even bid on a job. Others may require specific limits or endorsements tailored to project scope.
Even if you’ve never faced a claim, having this policy in place offers peace of mind—and strengthens your business credibility.
Ready to Apply?
We make it easy. Whether you're launching a new firm or expanding your services, we’ll walk you through the application and provide a clear, customized quote with no obligation.
Protect your firm’s future. Start your professional liability application today.
Whether you run a two-person engineering firm or manage crews across multiple job sites, having the right workers’ compensation insurance is essential. Not only is it legally required in most states—it’s a critical part of protecting your team and your business when accidents happen. We help architects, engineers, surveyors, and contractors get workers’ comp coverage that fits their team structure, complies with state laws, and minimizes risk. What Is Workers’ Compensation Insurance? Workers’ compensation (or “workers’ comp”) provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill due to job-related activities. It typically covers: - Medical expenses - Lost wages during recovery - Rehabilitation services - Disability or death benefits For employers, it also protects against lawsuits related to workplace injuries. Why It Matters in the AEC Industry AEC work comes with unique risks—whether it's field work, site visits, or even office ergonomics. One fall, strain, or repetitive stress injury could lead to major costs without coverage. Even if your business only has one employee, you may be required by law to carry a workers’ comp policy. Subcontractors and 1099 contractors may also trigger requirements, depending on your state. What to Consider When Choosing a Policy - State compliance: Each state has its own rules for coverage minimums, exemptions, and penalties. We help ensure you meet them. - Payroll accuracy: Workers’ comp premiums are based on payroll estimates. We help you classify roles properly to avoid overpayment or audit surprises. - Safety credits: Some insurers offer premium discounts for firms with formal safety programs. We can help you access them. Why I.S.C.A. We specialize in AEC insurance , which means we understand how your projects work—and where your risks lie. Our team: - Knows how to navigate multi-state compliance - Helps you bundle workers’ comp with general liability or commercial package coverage - Offers guidance on certificates of insurance and subcontractor coverage You’re focused on building and designing. We’re here to make sure your business and people are protected. Get Started Here!
Do You Need Commercial Auto Insurance? What AEC Firms Should Know If your business owns, leases, or uses vehicles as part of day-to-day operations, you likely need commercial auto insurance—even if you're a small firm or sole proprietor. From transporting equipment to visiting job sites, AEC professionals often rely on vehicles in ways that go beyond personal use. At ISCOFA, we help engineers, architects, surveyors, and contractors secure the right vehicle coverage to meet contract requirements, protect their teams, and keep business moving. What Is Commercial Auto Insurance? Commercial auto insurance covers vehicles used for business purposes. This can include cars, trucks, or vans owned or leased by your company—or even personal vehicles used for work tasks. Typical policies include: - Liability coverage for property damage or bodily injury - Physical damage protection (collision & comprehensive) - Medical payments for driver and passengers - Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage - Hired and non-owned auto liability (for borrowed/rented vehicles) Why Personal Auto Insurance Isn’t Enough If you’re using a personal vehicle to transport materials, visit clients, or move between job sites, your personal policy may not cover you if there’s an accident. That gap could leave your business exposed to costly claims or litigation. Even if your business doesn’t own any vehicles, you may still need hired and non-owned auto coverage to protect your liability when employees drive their own cars for work. Who Needs This Coverage? Commercial auto insurance is essential for: - Engineers and surveyors transporting tools or tech equipment - Contractors with work vans, trailers, or trucks - Architects driving to project sites or client offices - Firms that lease vehicles for business use If it’s part of how you work, it should be part of your protection plan. Our Approach We don’t offer cookie-cutter policies. Our team: - Evaluates your actual vehicle usage - Helps you meet state and project-based insurance requirements - Works with multiple carriers to find the best fit - Bundles auto coverage with other essential protections like general liability or professional liability Whether you have one vehicle or a small fleet, we’ll build a policy that reflects your business’s scale and risk.