AECOM is suing Zurich American Insurance alleging that the carrier’s “all-risk” policies should include claims for losses due to the impact of COVID-19.
The design firm alleges that Zurich refused to pay coronavirus-related claims when such coverage was not specifically excluded in AECOM's “all-risk” property insurance policies. AECOM claims its COVID-19 damages run in the millions of dollars.
According to AECOM’s suit, the insurance industry has a standard virus and bacteria exclusion form, but Zurich did not include it in AECOM policies. Some of the losses AECOM claims Zurich will not cover are for installation of physical barriers to isolate aerosolized droplets produced by those who are infected by the disease.
AECOM also said in the court filing that Zurich knew or should have known that many courts have determined that the presence of a hazardous substance in a property, including within its airspace, is considered property damage. Further, there may be direct physical loss to the property even without any physical damage. The lawsuit also noted that AECOM has offices, operations, and projects around the world where more than 500 AECOM employees have tested positive for COVID-19.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jan 11, 2017
OSHA prompts more proactive approach to construction site safety
Remote operated camera systems are being used to mitigate risk in real time.
Codes and Standards | Jan 10, 2017
Plunging solar power costs making PVs more compelling for owners, developers
Technical and manufacturing advances are driving down prices.
Codes and Standards | Jan 9, 2017
Boston’s plans for new development at odds with flood projections
One plan calls for building in areas predicted to be flooded during high tides as sea levels rise.
Codes and Standards | Jan 9, 2017
New LEED for Cities, LEED for Communities pilot certifications unveiled
Requires tracking of performance data and progress toward goals.
Codes and Standards | Jan 9, 2017
China claims top ranking outside of U.S. for total LEED-certified space
Canada, India, Brazil, and Korea round out top 5.
Codes and Standards | Jan 6, 2017
OSHA prompts more proactive approach to construction site safety
Remote operated camera systems are being used to mitigate risk in real time.
Codes and Standards | Jan 5, 2017
2018 building energy code upholds efficiency gains
Efforts to scale back efficiency requirements largely defeated.
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2017
Low-income housing doesn’t lower neighborhood housing values
A Trulia study contradicts longstanding fears.
Codes and Standards | Jan 3, 2017
Intelligent transportation systems have implications for designers, construction firms
Sensors and Internet of Things devices will have to be embedded in infrastructure.
Codes and Standards | Dec 15, 2016
OSHA releases safety recommendation guide for construction industry
It is said to be most helpful to small and mid-sized contractors.