For certain residential construction projects involving an architect, it is legally required for contractors and other construction professionals.
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Decennial Liability
In construction and renovation projects, a structural defect may not become apparent until years later. When the stability or watertightness of a building is compromised, you as a construction professional can be held liable for up to ten years after completion.
The ten-year liability insurance protects you against the financial consequences of serious construction errors for which you are legally responsible.
What is a decennial or 10-year liability insurance?
The decennial or ten-year liability insurance covers your civil liability for ten years after the provisional acceptance of a construction project.
According to Belgian law, contractors, architects, and other construction professionals are liable for ten years for defects that:
- Affect the stability of the building
- Endanger the structural integrity
- Compromise the waterproofing of the closed shell of the building
For certain residential construction projects, this insurance is legally required. It offers protection when a client holds you liable for serious construction defects within this legal period.
What are the benefits?
Covers damage caused by serious defects in stability or watertightness.
Covers your legal liability for ten years after completion.
Covers high damage claims in case of structural construction defects.
Insure your business against financial risks that could threaten its survival.
Who is this insurance for?
The ten-year liability insurance is intended for construction professionals such as:
- Contractors
- Architects
- Engineers and design offices
- Developers
- Other service providers in the construction sector
For anyone involved in residential construction projects for which the involvement of an architect is required, this insurance is in many cases legally mandatory.
Van Dessel guides you in determining your obligations and ensures compliant coverage.
What is covered and what is not?
What is covered?
- Damage affecting the structural stability of the building
- Serious defects in the completed structural works
- Liability during the statutory ten-year liability period
- Legal defence costs in the event of a liability claim
What is not covered?
- Aesthetic defects that do not affect the structural stability
- Minor workmanship defects that are not considered serious
- Intentional acts
- Damage occurring outside the statutory ten-year liability period
How much does this insurance cost?
The premium is calculated based on:
- Your profession and role in the construction project
- The type of works
- The nature and scope of the project
- The total construction cost
- Your experience and claims history
For project-specific policies, the premium is often calculated on a per-project basis. In other cases, an annual policy may be the most suitable option.
Van Dessel analyses your projects and helps you find an insurance solution that matches your activities and way of working.
Stories from our customers
Groep Steylaerts
Patrick Steylaerts: “Wij hebben het volste vertrouwen in onze verzekeringspartner Van Dessel.”
Germo bvba
Bram Gers: "Vooral het maatwerk is de reden waarom ik met Van Dessel in zee ben gegaan."
Van Wellen Group
Tom Bolsens: "We waren verrast dat er uit zo'n kleine hoek dreiging kon komen."
Our promise to you
Personal & involved
a tailor-made partner
We start from your specific situation and take the time to thoroughly understand your risks, needs, and objectives. This way, you receive advice and guidance tailored to your business and everyday practice.
Expertise & experience
already 80 years in insurance
Thanks to our years of experience, we analyze your risks and insurance needs with a broad perspective. We provide a well-thought-out approach, clear solutions, and the right protection for your business.
Customization & innovation
beyond standard insurance
No standard formulas, but solutions tailored to your activities and challenges. From analysis and implementation to support in case of claims: we provide an approach that works in practice.
Would you like to receive a quote?
Want to make sure your ten-year liability is properly insured?
We assess your role in the construction project, your contractual obligations and the applicable legal requirements. You will receive clear, practical advice tailored to your situation.
Request a no-obligation quote or contact one of our specialists.
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