Risk Awareness and Liability

Overview

Understanding professional liability and risk management protects surveyors and their clients. Implementing risk management practices is essential for sustainable professional practice.

Learning Objectives

• Identify professional liability exposures
• Implement risk management practices
• Maintain appropriate insurance coverage
• Document defensive practices

Key Concepts

Liability Exposures

Common risk areas:

• Boundary determination errors
• Construction staking mistakes
• Document errors or omissions
• Missed deadlines
• Scope creep issues

Risk Management

Strategies to reduce risk:

• Clear scope definition
• Written contracts
• Quality control procedures
• Documentation practices
• Client communication

Professional Liability Insurance

Coverage considerations:

• Policy types and limits
• Deductible selection
• Coverage exclusions
• Claims procedures
• Tail coverage

Defensive Practices

Protecting against claims:

• Thorough documentation
• Clear communication
• Standard of care compliance
• Timely issue resolution
• Contract protections

Key Terms

• Professional Liability: Responsibility for professional errors
• Errors and Omissions Insurance: Coverage for professional mistakes
• Standard of Care: Expected level of professional performance

Practice Questions

1. What are the most common sources of professional liability for surveyors?
2. What risk management practices should every surveying firm implement?