Comprehensive protection: from the construction phase to mov-ing in

Building your own home is a big step in life. However, it requires a lot of effort and solid planning – especially when it comes to safety and insurance coverage. Find out which types of insurance are relevant in the different construction phases and which risks you still face even after you move in.

As the client, you are responsible for the safety of the construction site even before the foundations are laid. Anyone who builds with a general contractor and has bought a turnkey house normally assumes this responsibility only from the moment the profits and losses are transferred. This usually happens from the time the keys are handed over.

But if you build yourself right from the start, you will be responsible for safety and the protection of property on the construction site.

Before construction begins

Even before the construction work on your new home begins, it is important to take out builder’s liability insurance. This insurance protects you against possible liability claims that may arise in connection with construction work, such as personal injury or damage to third-party property.

Other types of insurance cover financing with a mortgage or a construction loan. Most lenders require cover with disability and death insurance, which is also part of private pension provision.

During the construction phase

Once construction begins, a number of new risks arise. To protect yourself against these, having builders’ liability insurance and construction insurance is a good idea. These cover unforeseen damage that may occur during construction, such as that caused by extreme weather conditions or the theft of building materials and equipment, as well as personal injury.

After moving in

Once you have moved in, it is important that your new home is covered by building insurance. In Switzerland, building insurance is compulsory in some cantons. However, even if you are not obliged to take out this type of insurance, we strongly recommend that you insure your own home with the most comprehensive insurance you possibly can. Compulsory building insurance protects your home against natural damage caused by fire, storm, hail or floods. In most cases, however, this level of protection is not sufficient. For this reason, we recommend supplementary insurance for the building, which also covers damage caused by vandalism, earthquakes, glass breakage in fixed glazing and other risks.

For example, building water insurance covers damage caused by water from pipes, or leaking roofs or windows. Landscape/garden insurance protects gardens, walls, biotopes or pathway lights from the forces of nature.

In most cantons, compulsory building insurance does not cover damage caused by earthquakes. Even if Switzerland is not considered an earthquake zone, it is advisable to take out a separate earthquake insurance policy. Lastly, liability insurance covers damage to third parties and protects against unjustified claims. Household contents insurance that covers your belongings inside the house is also essential.

In most cases, you can take out all your insurance policies with one insurer, so that you have a single point of contact in the event of a claim.

Do you still have questions about which insurance is right for you? Our local real estate experts will be happy to provide you with information and refer you to the appropriate professionals.