What Insurance Should a Fit Out Contractor Have in Dubai?

The policies that matter

Contractor’s All Risks (CAR)

Covers physical loss or damage to the works and materials during the project, for example fire, water damage or theft on site.

Third-party liability (TPL)

Covers the contractor’s legal liability if the work damages someone else’s property or injures someone. In towers, that could be a leak into the apartment below or damage to common areas. Building managements commonly ask for CAR and TPL certificates before issuing a fit out NOC.

Workers’ cover

Covers the contractor’s employees for injury at work and provides the health insurance employers in Dubai must give their staff.

Professional indemnity

If the contractor also designs the project (design and build), this covers errors in the design itself.

What to check on the certificates

• The insured name matches the company on the contract and trade licence.
• The policy dates cover the whole project period.
• The cover limits meet what your building or landlord requires.
• The project address or scope is covered, where the policy requires it.
• Your building management has received a copy if it asked for one.

Your own insurance

Check your home or business policy too. Some policies exclude damage during renovation or need to be informed of major works. A quick call to your insurer before work starts avoids surprises.

Insurance is one of several checks

Insurance protects you when something goes wrong; the right contractor makes it less likely. Use our checklist on how to choose a renovation contractor in Dubai, and see our guide to comparing fit out companies.

Frequently Asked Questions