Often some very important elements of insurance are forgotten or maybe you just weren’t aware of their existence. JCT clause 6.5.1 or 21.2.1 as it was formally known, is probably one of those.
Clause 6.5.1 in a nutshell is non-negligence cover. For example you are building an extension to a semi-detached house. You are employing a main contractor to carry out the work, they are experienced individuals so you have no concern about them completing the work satisfactorily. They dig out the foundations and pour the concrete as per the plans. Then a knock comes at the door. Your neighbour has noticed some cracking has started to appear in their kitchen which adjoins your new extension. Now your contractor has taken all the precautions they can, and has followed the plans and you have done the same but that damage has still been caused.
Now you might think well there is no claim to answer. What about your poor neighbour? It’s going to be expensive to sort that cracking. Unfortunately the bill is going to land on your doorstep as it has been caused by the work that has been carried out at your premises.
Clause 6.5.1 as I referred to earlier is non-negligence cover. It is designed to cover those grey areas where everyone has done things correctly from plans to execution, but damage still occurs.
By no means am I suggesting this suitable for all builds but if your build requires a party wall agreement you are probably close enough to your neighbour to really look into some additional cover.
ProAktive are experts in providing self build insurance along with JCT 6.5.1 cover so if you have any queries or would like a quotation please contact us on 01302 346831.