As the federal construction stimulus gets going, buyers willrely on their insurance pros to write policies that cover new andemerging risks. In some cases, these insurance buyers may not yetfully understand the new risks they face.

To meet these challenges, agents and brokers must get up tospeed on the types of projects being funded and their roles inhelping clients manage risk. They will need to be broadlyknowledgeable about multiple industry entities, includingcontractors, construction companies, design/engineering firms,project owners, developers and residential builders.

While many of their clients' needs will fall into traditionalareas of property, builders' risk and equipment coverage, somestimulus projects will require more complex covers. Agents andbrokers also will need to be aware of relevant industry trends.They also should become familiar with the construction work that islikely to be taking place in their states and regions. Five mainthings provide clients with the most appropriate coverage andcement roles as trusted advisors: The need for speed; meeting biddeadlines Limits still subject to cost-cutting pressures Greenconstruction Often and early: The expanding role of risk managementThe growth of public-private partnerships States and municipalitiesare eager to access the stimulus funds as quickly as possiblethrough “shovel-ready” projects. Many of these involve maintenanceand repair rather than new initiatives. Construction companies andcontractors are first in line to receive work. Developers,engineers, designers and others are expected to follow.