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Does Contractors’ All Risks Insurance Cover Hired Plant on a Building Site?

Hired equipment may need a specific section or separate policy; check responsibility, custody, theft conditions and contract terms.

Related insurance page: If this article is part of a buying decision, compare the main Construction Insurance page before requesting terms.

Short answer: it may, but contractors’ all risks (CAR) cover does not automatically insure every item of hired plant. The policy may include a hired-in plant section, while the hire agreement can make the contractor responsible for damage, loss or continued hire charges.

Separate the exposures

Check who owns the equipment, who has custody, where it will be used and which party must arrange insurance. A CAR policy may principally address contract works and materials; hired plant can have different limits, excesses, theft conditions and territorial restrictions. Owned plant, hired-in plant and plant in transit may each be treated differently.

Quote preparation: Use the article detail to prepare the facts insurers normally ask for, then move into Construction Insurance for the quote-led next step.

Review the hire contract for the required insurance limit, excess responsibility, inspection duties and notice requirements. Ask whether unattended equipment must be immobilised, stored in a secure compound or protected with specific locks. If a machine is stolen, the insurer may ask for evidence of the precautions actually taken.

Before equipment arrives

  • Record make, model, serial number, replacement value and hire period.
  • Confirm the project address and activities are disclosed.
  • Check cover for loading, unloading, transit and temporary off-site storage.
  • Compare policy limits with the contract’s indemnity obligations.

Use Insure24’s business insurance information and contact the broker with the hire agreement and equipment list. Insure24 is a broker; cover depends on insurer terms and policy wording.

General information, not a construction contract or coverage opinion.

Common questions

Does this article replace insurance advice?

No. It is general guidance only. The right policy still depends on the business activity, contracts, locations, turnover, staff, assets, claims history and insurer wording.

What information should I prepare before asking for quotes?

Prepare turnover, wage roll, activities, locations, contract requirements, claims history, asset values, existing policy details and any deadlines for evidence of cover.

Where should I go next?

Use the main Construction Insurance page if you are ready to compare quote-led cover options or talk through the risk with Insure24.

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