Asbestos Liability Insurance is critical to those who deal with asbestos – either directly or indirectly.
But other than asbestos removalists, who else is exposed?
Despite high asbestos related payouts and compensation claims both locally and abroad, asbestos is still excluded from a majority of insurers policies.
Those removing and dealing with asbestos on a regular basis understand the requirements of having this cover included, but what about those who inadvertently come into contact with asbestos?
A roofing contractor has no cover under their public liability policy if a piece of an asbestos roof fell and hit a parked car. As the piece of roof is asbestos, their claim would be declined.
Does a plumber or electrician know that if they drill through a wall and it contains asbestos, the home or business owners could be exposed to the asbestos in the long term, however their standard public liability policy would give them no protection.
What would be the potential size of a claim if a building surveyor missed or inaccurately advised on the amount of asbestos located in a building? If a professional indemnity claim was made due to the surveyors negligence, a standard policy would not provide protection against an asbestos related claim.
Liability for claims relating to asbestos can now be covered via specialist underwriting agencies.