What is Joint Names Insurance?

Joint Names Insurance is specialist cover often required by construction contracts. It covers multiple parties – typically the employer (property owner or developer) and contractor  – under one contract.

This means both are treated as a single insured entity, so neither can claim against the other for an insured loss. This cover is often required under JCT or RIBA contracts and provides protection for contract works and existing structures, helping projects run smoothly without disputes between those involved.

Who needs Joint Names Insurance?

This cover is usually required by those involved in a construction or renovation project under a JCT or RIBA contract. It’s vital for both those employing contractors and the contractors themselves, as the policy covers both parties under one contract, preventing disputes over insured losses.

Project funders or other stakeholders in the building or renovation work may also need to be covered if required by the contract.

Whether the project is creating a new build from the ground up, an extensive refurbishment, or extension, Joint Names cover is essential to protect both contract works and existing structures.

When do you need Joint Names Insurance?

You need Joint Names Insurance when it has been chosen as the insurance option for your project, most commonly under a JCT contract. This cover is often selected because it places the employer and contractor under one policy, reducing the risk of disputes and helping the project run smoothly.

For projects using RIBA contracts, Joint Names Insurance may still be required depending on how the parties agree to structure their insurance. But it’s not built into the contract in the same defined way as a JCT contract.