Engineering Insurance Essentials: What Every Engineer Should Know

Written by Russell Valentine—Risk Advisor

December 4, 2025 · 4 minute read

Blog Engineering Insurance Essentials: What Every Engineer Should Know

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The Core Insurance Types for Engineers

  1. Professional Liability Insurance for Engineers (Errors & Omissions)
    This is the cornerstone of engineering insurance. It protects against claims of negligence, design errors, or omissions that lead to financial loss for clients. Even a minor miscalculation can result in lawsuits costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Professional liability coverage ensures you’re not personally liable for these claims.
  2. General Liability Insurance for Engineering Firms
    Covers bodily injury or property damage to third parties. If a client or vendor is injured on-site or property is damaged during your operations, this policy steps in.
  3. Workers’ Compensation Insurance in Texas
    Mandatory in most states, but Texas workers’ comp laws make it optional for private employers. Many clients still require it as a contractual condition.
  4. Commercial Auto & Property Insurance for Engineers
    For firms with vehicles or physical offices, these policies protect against accidents, theft, and property damage.
  5. Cyber Liability Insurance for Engineering Companies
    With engineering increasingly digital, cyberattacks and data breaches are real threats. Cyber liability insurance covers breach response costs, legal fees, and reputation management.

The Three Biggest Pain Points for Engineers

  1. Complexity and Cost of Engineering Insurance Policies
    Premiums fluctuate, exclusions hide in fine print, and engineers often struggle to balance comprehensive coverage with affordability.
  2. Uncertainty Around Insurance Claims for Engineers
    Many engineers worry whether their policy will actually respond when needed. Disputes over what constitutes “professional negligence” or “covered errors” can lead to sleepless nights.
  3. Project-Specific Risks and Insurance Endorsements
    Large projects often require specialized endorsements or surety bonds. Missing these details can delay work or even void contracts, creating financial and reputational headaches.

What’s Unique About Texas?

Texas stands out for two reasons:

  • Workers’ Compensation Is Not Mandatory in Texas
    Unlike most states, Texas does not require private employers to carry workers’ comp. However, opting out can expose engineers to significant liability if an employee is injured. Many savvy firms choose coverage voluntarily to protect themselves and meet client expectations.
  • Texas Engineering Insurance Requirements for Specialty Work
    Texas law imposes strict insurance requirements for certain engineering-related activities, such as amusement ride inspections under the Texas Occupations Code. These niche endorsements often catch firms off guard but are critical for compliance.

Final Thoughts

Insurance isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a strategic tool for risk management. By addressing these pain points and understanding Texas-specific nuances, engineers can protect their businesses, their teams, and their reputations.

If you’re ready to review your coverage or explore tailored solutions, Risk Services Leavitt is here to help. Let’s make insurance work for you—not against you.

Have questions? Contact:

Russell Valentine

Russell Valentine

Risk Advisor

Call: (713) 564-0361

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