Decennial Liability (RC Décennale)
A construction defect surfaces years after a project is delivered. Decennial Liability covers your liability for the ten years following handover.
What it covers
A structural defect
A flaw undermines the building's soundness (foundations, structure, roof). Repairs are covered, even years later.
Unfitness for purpose
The building becomes unfit for its normal use: leaks, failing insulation. The insurer covers putting it right.
Inseparable fixtures
A fixture built into the structure (embedded pipework, underfloor heating) fails and damages the building. Covered.
The certificate you must show
You need it before every project starts. Without it, you cannot legally begin work.
What it does not cover
- Purely cosmetic damage that affects neither soundness nor use is not covered.
- If the defect already existed before handover, a different policy applies.
- Activities not declared when you took out the policy are not covered if a claim arises.
Who is it for?
You carry out construction work
Structural work, framing, roofing, finishing trades: the moment your work touches the structure or building envelope, this cover is mandatory.
You are a tradesperson or general contractor
Whether you work alone or coordinate several trades, your decennial liability starts the day the project is handed over.
You bid on tenders
Project owners require an up-to-date certificate before awarding you a project.
Frequently asked questions
Is Decennial Liability mandatory for every trade?
How long does the cover last?
Do I also need Contractor's All Risk cover?
How much does it cost?
These coverages often go together
Latent Defects Insurance (Dommages-Ouvrage)
A structural defect claim can freeze a construction site for months while liability gets sorted out. Latent Defects Insurance pre-finances the repairs immediately, without waiting.
Contractor's All Risk (TRC)
A site under construction is exposed to bad weather, theft and damage even before the works are handed over. Contractor's All Risk covers the works and the materials on site.
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