When you work as a structural engineer, your advice, designs, and reports carry weight. Even a small mistake could lead to costly claims. That’s why having the right indemnity insurance is not just smart—it’s essential.

So how do you choose the best structural engineer professional indemnity insurance? In this guide, we’ll cover what to look for, how to compare policies, and why a specialist professional indemnity insurance broker like Simcox Brokers makes the process easier and safer.

Why Do Structural Engineers Need Indemnity Insurance?

Structural engineers deal with complex designs, building safety, and compliance with regulations. A client can claim if something goes wrong—even years later. Claims might include:

• Design errors
  
• Defective materials advice
  
• Delayed project timelines
  
• Breach of professional duty
  

Structural Engineer Professional Indemnity Insurance covers legal costs and compensation if a client makes a claim. Without it, your business or personal assets could be at risk.

Key Features to Look For in a Policy

Choosing the right cover starts with knowing what a good policy includes. Here are the most important features:

1. Adequate Cover Limits

Ensure the policy covers the potential value of claims. Many clients require minimum limits, often from £250,000 to £5 million or more.

2. Retroactive Cover

This protects work you completed before the start date of your new policy. It’s vital if you’re switching providers or starting a new policy.

3. Run-Off Cover

Run-off cover protects you even after retirement or if the business closes, as claims can appear years later.

4. Legal Defence Costs

Always confirm the policy covers your legal fees in addition to any settlement or award.

How Simcox Brokers Can Help You Choose Right

Picking the right policy on your own can be tricky. A professional indemnity insurance broker like Simcox Brokers understands the unique risks faced by engineers and surveyors. Here’s how they make a difference:

Tailored Advice

Simcox Brokers doesn’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. They understand your business type, your project scope, and your risk level to suggest the right policy.

Market Comparison

They compare policies from many top insurers, not just one. That helps you find the best cover at the most competitive price.

Claims Support

Simcox isn’t just there when you buy. They assist with paperwork and guide you through claims if something goes wrong.

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What About Surveyors?

If you also work in surveying—or run a firm that includes both disciplines—you may need Surveyor Professional Indemnity Insurance. While similar, the risks and coverage can differ. Simcox Brokers also specialises in this area, offering expert advice for:

• RICS-compliant cover
  
• Valuation disputes
  
• Survey errors or omissions
  
• Boundary and measurement issues
  

Getting both engineering and surveying cover from one source makes things simpler and ensures nothing is missed

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When selecting indemnity insurance, many professionals make errors that could cost them later. Watch out for these:

• Going with the cheapest quote: Low cost often means low coverage or high excess.
  
• Not checking exclusions: Some policies exclude major risks like subsidence or large-scale claims.
  
• Delaying cover: Start your policy before taking on any client work to avoid gaps in protection.
  

Simcox Brokers helps you avoid these pitfalls by reviewing each policy’s fine print with you.

Questions to Ask Your Broker

To make a smart choice, ask your professional indemnity insurance broker:

• What’s included and excluded in this policy?
  
• Does this cover my full scope of services?
  
• What happens if I retire or close the business?
  
• Will this meet industry or client contract standards?
  

A broker like Simcox will give clear answers and guide you to the right option.

Final Thoughts: Protection That Pays Off

As a structural engineer, your work involves serious responsibility. One missed detail can turn into a claim worth thousands. That’s why you need strong Structural Engineer Professional Indemnity Insurance in place before things go wrong.