FAQ

Welcome to the ASSIVER FAQ page. Here we answer the most frequently asked questions about our services and specialised insurance solutions for architects, engineers, and design teams in Belgium. This way, you quickly gain clear insights into topics such as professional liability, policy choices, claims management, and support during your projects.

Do you have a question that is not covered here? Feel free to contact us, we will be happy to provide you with tailored advice.

When can I contact Assiver with questions or comments?

You are always welcome with questions or remarks. No question is ever unnecessary — we would rather answer one question too many than one too few.

At what point during contract negotiations is it useful to get in touch?

It is advisable to request advice already during the negotiations. This way, we can inform you about:

The liabilities that the client wishes to assign to you;
The extent to which these are insurable or not.

What happens after the contract negotiations?

After the negotiations, we usually carry out a market study to find the most suitable policy for the design team and the project.

What follow-up takes place during the term of the policy?

We monitor the progress of the works, based on:

Dates specified in the policy;
Important milestones such as:
- Application for the environmental permit,
- Start of the works,
- Provisional acceptance.

In which cases should we inform Assiver ourselves?

Please inform us in the following cases:

Standstill or delay of the works;
Early termination of the assignment;
Expansion of the scope of the works;
Reduction of the assignment by the client;
Engagement of additional subcontracted designers (e.g. acoustics, landscaping, …).

This is especially important for non-Belgian designers, as their policy often does not meet Belgian legal requirements.

For what can I contact Assiver during the policy term and the liability period?

During the design phase, the construction period, and the ten-year liability period, we are available for first-line advice on (potential) damage issues.
This can be:

Preventive (you want to know where you stand), or
Necessary (e.g. notice of default, summons).

What should I do in the event of a notice of default or a summons?

We are obliged to contact the insurer in the event of a notice of default or a summons.
Particular attention is required for an official report of default in the context of public contracts:

A complete and correct reply must be given within 15 days;
This is done in consultation with the insurer and often with the lawyer appointed by the insurer.