Builders Risk Insurance Washington State

Construction projects across Washington State face unique risks from weather, theft, fire, vandalism, and jobsite accidents. Whether you’re building a custom home in Seattle, renovating a commercial space in Spokane, or developing new properties in Tacoma or Bellevue, builders risk insurance plays a critical role in protecting your investment during construction.
An experienced independent insurance agency can help contractors, developers, and property owners throughout Washington State secure builders risk coverage tailored to each project.
What Is Builders Risk Insurance?
Builders risk insurance is a specialized policy designed to protect buildings and structures while they are under construction or renovation. It covers the project from groundbreaking to completion, helping safeguard materials, labor, and financial investments.
This type of policy is commonly purchased by:
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General contractors
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Home builders
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Property developers
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Business owners
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Investors
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Property owners overseeing construction or remodeling
Coverage is typically written for the length of the project and can be customized based on the size and scope of the build.
What Does Builders Risk Insurance Cover?
Builders risk insurance in Washington State generally covers physical damage to a structure under construction caused by covered events such as:
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Fire and smoke damage
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Theft and vandalism
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Wind and storm damage
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Lightning
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Certain types of water damage
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Damage to materials in transit or stored onsite
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Collapse due to covered causes
Policies can also include coverage for:
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Temporary structures and scaffolding
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Construction materials and supplies
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Equipment used in the build (limited coverage)
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Soft costs such as lost income, permits, and interest expenses due to delays
Because no two construction projects are identical, coverage can be tailored to match residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments.
Why Builders Risk Insurance Is Important in Washington
Washington State construction projects face a wide range of risks due to climate, geography, and urban development. From heavy rainfall in Western Washington to windstorms and wildfire exposure in Eastern Washington, builders risk insurance helps protect against costly setbacks.
Key reasons to carry builders risk insurance include:
Weather-Related Risks
Frequent rain, windstorms, and occasional snow can damage structures under construction. Water intrusion and storm damage can delay projects and increase costs.
Theft and Vandalism
Construction sites can be targets for theft of lumber, copper wiring, tools, and appliances. Vandalism and trespassing can also cause unexpected expenses.
Fire Hazards
Properties under construction are especially vulnerable to fire due to exposed wiring, equipment use, and unfinished fire protection systems.
Financial Protection
A major loss during construction can derail a project financially. Builders risk coverage helps ensure that repairs, replacements, and delays don’t lead to major out-of-pocket costs.
Who Needs Builders Risk Insurance in Washington State?
Builders risk insurance is essential for anyone with a financial interest in a construction project. This may include:
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Custom home builders in Seattle, Bellevue, and Redmond
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Developers constructing multi-family properties in Tacoma or Everett
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Commercial contractors in Spokane, Yakima, and Vancouver
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Property owners renovating office or retail space
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Investors building new residential or mixed-use properties
Lenders often require builders risk insurance before financing construction projects, making it a standard part of responsible project planning.
Coverage for Residential and Commercial Projects
Builders risk insurance in Washington can be customized for many types of projects, including:
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New home construction
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Spec homes
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Commercial buildings
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Tenant improvements
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Remodeling and renovations
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Additions and expansions
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Mixed-use developments
Policies can be written for projects ranging from small remodels to large commercial builds.
Additional Coverage Options to Consider
An independent insurance agent can help you expand builders risk coverage with important endorsements and related policies, such as:
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General liability insurance
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Contractor insurance packages
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Equipment and tool coverage
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Ordinance or law coverage
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Flood or earthquake coverage (when needed)
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Soft cost and delay-in-completion coverage
Combining builders risk with other construction-related policies ensures comprehensive protection from start to finish.
Serving Contractors and Builders Across Washington
We work with contractors and developers throughout Washington State, including:
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Seattle
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Tacoma
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Bellevue
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Spokane
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Everett
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Vancouver
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Olympia
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Bellingham
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Yakima
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Tri-Cities and surrounding communities
Local knowledge of Washington building regulations, climate risks, and construction trends allows agents to design policies that truly fit each project.
Get a Builders Risk Insurance Quote in Washington State
Every construction project is different, and builders risk insurance should be customized to match your timeline, budget, and risk exposure. Working with an independent insurance agency ensures access to multiple insurance carriers and flexible coverage options designed specifically for Washington builders and developers.
If you’re planning a new construction project or renovation anywhere in Washington State, contact Richardson Insurance Services, Inc today to request a builders risk insurance quote and protect your project from unexpected setbacks.
