Ascot Group has introduced a new product called Prime Propel, aimed at contractors in the construction industry. Launched on August 15, 2025, this product combines professional and environmental liability coverage. It is designed to help contractors manage risks related to both environmental issues and professional errors.
Prime Propel targets various types of contractors, including general, trade, specialty, and artisan contractors. It specifically addresses the unique challenges they face during construction projects where environmental and professional risks often overlap.
Ted Mavraganis, Ascot’s Senior Vice President and head of US environmental operations, expressed that this product allows the company to better serve the environmental construction market. He emphasized Ascot’s goal of being a reliable partner in a world that often presents challenges.
The launch of Prime Propel is part of a larger strategy by Ascot to expand its environmental insurance offerings. The company aims to provide a range of specialized solutions for the construction sector, which includes not only environmental and professional liability but also excess casualty, workers’ compensation, builders’ risk, and surety products.
This new offering comes at a time when the environmental insurance market is experiencing significant changes. Regulatory shifts at both federal and state levels are impacting how coverage is underwritten. These changes add layers of complexity to risk assessment and pricing, making it more challenging for insurers to predict claims.
Another pressing concern in the environmental liability space is the rising risk associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals.” These substances are increasingly scrutinized due to their long-lasting presence in the environment and potential health risks. In construction, PFAS can be found in various materials, leading to possible costly clean-up efforts and liability claims.
As the environmental insurance landscape evolves, coverage is expanding beyond traditional heavy industries. New areas like renewable energy, advanced battery manufacturing, and carbon capture projects are emerging. This shift requires insurers to adapt their underwriting practices to address the unique risks associated with these developments.
Ascot’s introduction of Prime Propel reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the changing needs of the construction industry. As environmental concerns continue to grow, having the right insurance coverage will be vital for contractors navigating these complex risks.