Cameron Ellis

Subcontractors play a big role in construction projects across the U.S., employing about one in five workers in the industry. They bring special skills and help get projects done on time and within budget. But what happens if a subcontractor doesn’t have the right insurance and something goes wrong? John Hughes, a construction underwriting expert … Read more

In the construction world, contracts do more than just set the scope of work—they decide who is responsible if something goes wrong. This idea is called contractual risk transfer, and it’s something contractors and business owners need to understand to avoid unexpected costs and keep insurance affordable. Tanner Webb, a construction underwriter at Central Insurance, … Read more

In the construction world, Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, or EIFS, have gained attention for their benefits like good insulation, light weight, and low cost. Many builders and homeowners see EIFS as a modern choice compared to traditional siding or stucco. However, behind these advantages lies a serious hidden problem: mold growth caused by trapped … Read more

Contractors often focus on obvious construction hazards like heavy machinery or working at heights. But one hidden danger can be just as risky: oily rags. Each year, more than 4,000 fires happen at construction sites across the U.S., mainly because flammable materials aren’t stored properly. Ryan Franco, a loss control consultant with Central Insurance, points … Read more

Running a manufacturing facility is a balancing act between keeping things running smoothly and making sure everyone stays safe. When safety takes a backseat, the results can be serious—injuries, fines from OSHA, more workers’ compensation claims, and higher insurance costs. But when safety is done right, it can actually give a company an edge over … Read more

Construction companies face many risks every day, from accidents on the jobsite to problems that show up long after a project wraps up. These issues can hit a contractor’s finances hard and even affect their reputation and chances of landing new work. That’s why liability insurance is so important for builders and contractors. John Hughes, … Read more

Small business owners across the U.S. often look for ways to cut costs, and insurance can seem like an easy target. But experts warn that skimping on insurance coverage can lead to serious financial trouble down the road. Eddie Dreyer, a commercial lines underwriter at Central Insurance, says that being properly insured is crucial, even … Read more

Running a small business can feel like a nonstop balancing act. Owners juggle customers, employees, and money matters all day long. The last thing they need is extra worry about things like property damage or legal trouble. But these unexpected problems can quickly take over if a business isn’t ready. That’s why having the right … Read more

Inflation is causing real headaches for businesses, especially small and medium-sized ones. With the annual inflation rate around 2.7%, costs for materials, labor, and equipment have risen sharply, squeezing profits and making day-to-day operations tougher. This ongoing trend has also made insurance coverage a bigger concern for many companies. Rachel Pinsonneault, a commercial lines underwriter … Read more

Construction projects are facing more challenges than ever in 2025. Contractors are dealing with rising costs, longer schedules, and tougher demands from clients. These issues don’t just push back completion dates—they also cut into profits, hurt trust with clients, and strain relationships with subcontractors. Damien Hayden, a loss control specialist at Central Insurance, has been … Read more