A deeper look at our target segments: Construction & Installation

As part of our Made for Main Street focus on small-to-medium, community-based businesses, we're highlighting one of our Commercial P&C target segments: Construction & Installation. These businesses help build and maintain the communities where we live and work. 
Our appetite focuses on established businesses known for their craftsmanship, discipline, and strong safety culture.
This overview may feel familiar to some brokers and continues to reflect the fundamentals that guide our approach to construction and installation risks.
Preferred appetite at a glance






Business Category 


Examples  




Landscape & Exterior Solutions



Landscaping & tree work (pruning and removal)
Fences, decks, patios and gazebos
Masonry, paving, concrete, tile and terrazzo
Irrigation & drainage systems
Swimming pool installation and services
Lawn sprinkler installation
Metal doors and windows
Sign installation
Antenna installation (TV/satellite)
Glazier operations
Metal doors/windows/awnings/siding





Mechanical Contractors



Heating & A/C
Refrigeration
Sheet metal ductwork
Solar energy contractors
Residential water softening/treatment
Residential and commercial electricians
Underground cable/fibre optic installation





Finishing Trades



Drywall/plastering
Insulation
Interior & exterior painting
Flooring & blinds, interior decorating/staging
Framing, trimming, carpentry





General Construction



Residential, commercial new builds
Residential, commercial renovations/additions





*All risks are subject to underwriting review 
General underwriting considerations


Specialized coverage

Equipment Breakdown – Contractors Plus* – Protects against unexpected mechanical or electrical failures, including scheduled contractors’ equipment. By ensuring equipment is properly insured, contractors can avoid coverage gaps.
Contractors Extended Bundles* – It includes common contractor-specific coverage, such as unscheduled tools and contractors’ equipment, along with added benefits:

Contractor's Loss of Income – Provides protection for lost earnings due to direct physical damage to contractors’ tools or equipment at a job site by an insured peril. If the damage interrupts business operations, this coverage helps recover income lost during the downtime.
Rental Reimbursement Expenses – Helps cover costs of renting replacement tools or equipment.



*Subject to terms and conditions.
Client-specific exposures
With increasing digitization for all industries, we can’t forget about contractors. Cyber risks are increasing, and Gore offers Cyber coverage for first- and third-party exposures, including expense coverage and advisory services.
More contractors are looking at professional services, ensuring the client is insured properly for all operations is important. Gore has Contractors E&O coverage with limits up to $100,000 for select contracting classes.
Submission quality
Clearly outlining the scope of operations, percentage of work subcontracted, and confirmation that subcontractors provide certificates of insurance supports a smoother underwriting review. An example of the type of businesses serviced also helps.
Real-world example: Why we wrote this account



Client profile: Residential and Commercial HVAC Installation
Established: 2020
Annual revenue: $2M
Risk highlights:

Long-standing business, claims-free history
Excellent reviews and reputation
Multiline policy, Fleet policy placed as well
Growth potential with the account