Loss control bulletins, claims scenarios & other resources for architects, engineers and design consultants
"An engineer’s project triumphs and challenges— A claim example—inspired by true events." - Recent years have revealed a concerning trend, that mechanical engineers working on residential projects, especially multi-unit (condo) projects, have seen a significant rise in both the frequency and severity of claims. This insight comes from Victor Canada's extensive experience in managing professional liability claims. In this animated video, we dive deeper into this issue with a real-life claim example inspired by true events. This claim story highlights the importance of Architects & Engineers Professional Liability coverage.
- Unseen defects. Costly surprises. - Ever heard of a claim that turned a construction project into a $4 million legal battle? Steve, a mechanical engineer, found himself in just that situation. His firm was blindsided by hidden defects in a high-rise condo, leading to costly damages and a lawsuit that could have been avoided. Learn how you can help protect yourself from facing the same fate as Steve.
And don’t miss our animated video that brings this claim story to life!
- Architect’s oversight ignites lawsuit. - A small oversight by an architect turned into a massive $11 million lawsuit after a fire broke out in a high-rise she designed—a stark reminder of the potential risks architects could face when working on residential construction projects. Find out what happened and the risk factors that can help you avoid similar pitfalls.
- Design flaws exposed. - Pierre, a structural engineer, thought he’d nailed the design of a six-story commercial building—until a routine inspection uncovered serious structural issues. As a result, Pierre found himself facing a $1.6 million claim! Get the inside scoop on what went wrong and how proactive problem solving and thorough peer reviews could help you avoid similar costly mistakes when working on commercial construction projects.
- Explosion exposes liability gap. - Roger, an electrical engineer, faced a $14 million liability after an explosion due to unclear responsibilities which sent shockwaves through his firm and the industry. Learn how a simple oversight during a construction project exposed a massive liability risk and what you can do to avoid falling into the same trap Roger faced.
- Backup breakdown. - A small engineering firm was hit by a ransomware attack, resulting in a critical data loss of over $270,000! Find out how this happened!
- Ambiguity. Why clarity counts in written contracts. -An engineer’s simple oversight led to a disaster—a structural collapse. A significant contributor to this loss was the fact the written contract had never been finalized between him and his client. Discover how written contracts can clarify a design professional's responsibilities but also empower them to better manage their obligations when working on construction projects.
- The importance of compliance inspections. - Meet Stephanie, an engineer who learned the hard way about the importance of compliance inspections. After modernizing a multi-residential complex, a fire broke out due to some overlooked details! Discover how a simple oversight led to a significant liability.
- The power of keeping records. - We dive into Daniel's story—a structural engineer who faced a lawsuit years after a dome he designed collapsed. Discover how his careful record-keeping and continued purchase of professional liability insurance from Victor after retirement saved the day.
- Supervision matters. Avoiding costly mistakes in construction. - Meet Nick, an engineer who learned the hard way that cutting corners on supervision can lead to costly mistakes. When his role was reduced from full-time to part-time on a construction project, things took a turn for the worse! Discover how client education on the importance of adequate oversight in construction projects can help architects, engineers and design consultants steer clear of a costly lawsuit—just like the one Nick faced.
To view more claims scenarios, click here.
- FREE cyber assessment & consultation service—exclusively for ALL Victor Canada policyholders - Victor Canada policyholders — regardless of their coverage — now have access to a cyber assessment & consultation service (valued at $397 CAN) at no additional cost. They can connect with a cyber expert for a one-on-one consultation (via a video or phone call in 90 minutes or less) to learn about the cyber exposures their organization may be facing. More importantly, they can find out how they can protect themselves, their business, employees and clients from cyberattacks! #TheThreatIsReal
Businesses may not be aware of the various deductible features that are available as part of Victor Canada’s Architects & Engineers in Private Practice policy. On this resource page, Victor expert, Corinne McIntosh, explains deductibles and their benefits through short videos. We also provide examples of the deductibles in action to show how they could apply to a business—because we know that not all deductibles are created equal.
Visit: www.victorinsurance.ca/notalldeductiblescreatedequal.