Construction underwriting agency MECON Insurance Ltd (MECON NZ) has partnered with Artisan Underwriting to roll out a design and construct (D&C) professional indemnity (PI) insurance product tailored to New Zealand’s construction sector.
The collaboration brings Lloyd’s-backed capacity to a product aimed at bridging a recognised coverage gap for contractors undertaking both design and build responsibilities.
Brokers aligned with MECON NZ can now offer this new coverage to clients through direct referral to Artisan Underwriting, expanding risk transfer options for construction professionals managing combined project roles.
The newly introduced D&C PI policy is based on civil liability principles and is intended for contractors and builders operating in sectors such as residential housing, commercial refurbishment, retail developments, and public infrastructure.
The product accommodates both low- and mid-rise construction as well as minor institutional facilities.
Coverage highlights include automatic policy reinstatement with an aggregate limit of up to $10 million, subject to the insured’s chosen limit of liability.
The policy provides protection against a range of exposures including:
Optional extensions are also available, such as fidelity cover, run-off insurance for completed projects, and principal’s indemnity.
The rollout comes amid shifting dynamics in the construction insurance sector, where increasing reliance on integrated project delivery models and rising costs have heightened demand for comprehensive liability protection.
According to a recent report from WTW, the global construction sector is undergoing changes driven by the digital transformation and increased demand for infrastructure supporting artificial intelligence.
These trends, coupled with weather-related claims and regulatory developments, are influencing how insurers assess and price risk.
Reflecting on the partnership, MECON Insurance founder Glenn Ross said the initiative aligns two specialist providers to deliver targeted PI protection for New Zealand’s construction professionals.
“Artisan’s PI D&C solution, underpinned by some of the strongest capacity at Lloyd’s, addresses a critical need in the New Zealand market. Combined with MECON’s construction expertise, market-leading policy wording, and strong broker relationships, this partnership is positioned as an ideal choice,” he said.
He also highlighted the experience of key team members.
“Beyond the expertise and solutions we bring, what truly sets this alliance apart is the calibre of our people. Kishan Dasan’s technical acumen and passion for construction have made him a recognised leader for almost 20 years. Lewis Patton’s deep knowledge in financial lines and casualty, refined over 15 years, ensures a robust offering for construction clients,” Ross said.
