California Building Industry Association

Risk Management/Safety

CBIA is dedicated to providing quality risk management and safety information to our members. Under the leadership of the association’s risk management and insurance subcommittee, it is our goal to mitigate all types of risks in our industry from work site injuries to construction defect claims.

General Liability/Risk Management

Nearly 85 percent of residential construction claims payments relate to construction defect related claims or lawsuits. California’s Landmark Right to Repair legislation (SB 800) is expected to greatly reduce the exposure to such claims by providing and efficient method for resolving issues directly with the homeowner.

Education

CBIA is committed to provide educational information to builders, trades, attorneys and insurance professionals on a variety of risk management areas. A variety of educational opportunities are offered through the California Homebuilding Foundation. Find out what upcoming programs are available.

Liability Insurance for Homebuilders

CBIA continues to sponsor a risk-retention group for California builders. The Home Construction Insurance Co., owned by builders, was developed after the successful passage of SB 800, California’s landmark right-to-repair law which became effective in 2003. Builders who were frustrated with outrageous premiums and limited coverage asked CBIA to develop a program that valued builders who embraced the concepts of quality workmanship, excellent customer service and the right to repair. Builders from around the state are now insured under the program, which offers competitive rates, stability and control. To obtain a quote, contact one of the preferred brokers below or visit www.hcicinsurance.com.

John Murphy
John O Bronson Insurance
(916) 480-4139; email
Don Sharp
Sharp Insurance
(559) 734-9246; email

CBIA Builders' Risk Insurance Program

During these challenging times for our industry, CBIA has been working with insurance experts Jansen and Hastings to develop a unique course of construction policy with expanded coverage at very competitive rates. The CBIA Builders' Risk Insurance Program gives an immediate benefit to members, not only from a pricing perspective, but also one that can assist builders with insuring standing inventory. The CBIA Builders' Risk Program will provide builders with a broad coverage at reasonable rates with little administrative effort, all while supporting the Association. Find out more about the program.

Join CBIA’s Group Programs

CBIA has partnered with State Fund to provide discounted workers compensation programs for members. The program is now open to both trade contractors and builders. If you are an existing State Fund policyholder and wish to receive the CBIA discount, simply download the applicable conversion form and fax to Kathleen Elyko at (916) 263-5323. If you are currently insured with another carrier and wish to receive a Group Program quote, contact your local insurance broker and mention CBIA Group Programs.

• CBIA Trade Contractor Group 40 Conversion Form
• CBIA Builder Group 41 Conversion Form

For additional information on how to become a part of the programs visit the State Fund site.

Safety Matters

Learn about safety training options, including online training and “tailgate talks” by trade and much more. Courage Safety offers a variety of services that will increase safety on your jobsite. Visit the Courage Safety site.

Safety Materials

CBIA strives to provide members with valuable risk management and safety resources. CBIA has partnered with State Fund to provide valuable safety material to members in an effort to create a safe workplace and maintain reasonable workers compensation rates. As part of this effort, the complimentary pamphlets Tailgate Safety Topics for Construction and Heat Stress are available. Find out more.

Free Cal/OSHA Consultations

CBIA encourages its members to visit the Cal/OSHA Consultation program. During difficult economic times it may be tempting to cut back on workplace safety budgets, but California employers now have an option to obtain safety information free of charge. California has developed several programs that rely on industry, labor and government to work as partners in encouraging and recognizing workplace safety and health programs that effectively prevent and control injuries and illnesses to workers. Find out more about the program.