Concrete Contractor Insurance in Washington State

Concrete contractors in Washington occupy a unique position in the construction liability landscape. Unlike trades where defective work can be relatively easily repaired or replaced, concrete work is, by its nature, permanent. A foundation that cracks, a slab that settles, or a retaining wall that fails cannot simply be patched — it often requires demolition and complete replacement, generating claims that can quickly reach six figures. This permanence makes completed operations coverage the most critical component of a concrete contractor's insurance program.

Structural failure represents the highest-severity risk for concrete contractors. Foundations support entire buildings, and a defect in the pour, reinforcement, or curing process can compromise the structural integrity of the entire structure. Washington's seismic requirements — the state sits on multiple fault zones including the Cascadia Subduction Zone — mean that concrete work must meet stringent engineering specifications. A foundation that fails during a seismic event because of inadequate reinforcement or improper mix design can generate catastrophic claims involving the entire building and its occupants.

Flatwork defects are the most frequent claims for concrete contractors. Driveways, sidewalks, patios, and garage slabs that crack prematurely, develop scaling, or settle unevenly generate warranty disputes and property damage claims. Washington's freeze-thaw cycles in Eastern Washington and the Cascade foothills are particularly harsh on flatwork that was not properly finished or sealed. While individual flatwork claims are typically moderate in size, they can accumulate rapidly for busy residential concrete operations.

The occupational health risks for concrete workers are serious. Silica dust from cutting, grinding, and drilling concrete is a known carcinogen, and OSHA's silica rule (effective since 2017) imposes strict exposure limits and engineering controls. Concrete burns from wet cement cause chemical burns that worsen without immediate treatment. Heavy equipment operation — concrete pumps, mixers, forklifts, and excavators — creates both worker injury risk and third-party property damage exposure. Washington requires concrete contractors to register with L&I and carry a $15,000 specialty contractor surety bond. Given the permanence and severity of concrete-related claims, adequate insurance is not optional — it is the foundation of a sustainable concrete business.