As the backbone of modern communication, fiber networks require meticulous planning, construction, and management. The Baldwin Group’s Digital Infrastructure Practice helps ensure that fiber networks are protected from the risks associated with construction and long-term operation.
Our offerings include:
Comprehensive insurance solutions: Builder’s risk insurance and liability coverage during construction help safeguard your investment against accidents and delays. Once operational, business interruption, cybersecurity, and equipment insurance provide ongoing protection.
Network optimization and expansion: We work with enterprises to expand and optimize fiber networks, helping ensure they meet the growing demands of a digital-first world.
Risk management for the operational phase: From data breaches to equipment failures, we help manage ongoing risks through continuous monitoring and insurance reviews – to keep your network operating seamlessly.
Helping fiber service providers scale quickly
The U.S. government is investing $42 billion to enhance the nation’s fiber infrastructure, aiming to provide high-speed internet access to underserved communities. This initiative, part of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, seeks to bridge the digital divide by expanding fiber-optic networks across rural and low-income areas. The investment will boost connectivity, support economic growth, and improve access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities, fostering greater digital inclusion across the country. With growth comes the need for proper insurance coverage to keep pace with evolving risks. From surety and bonding to all lines of insurance coverage, The Baldwin Group has specialized expertise managing digital infrastructure risk.
BEAD funding and insurance
BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) funding is instrumental in accelerating fiber broadband deployment, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Fiber service providers receiving BEAD funding must navigate various risks, especially when working with subcontractors. Ensuring proper insurance coverage is essential for managing these subcontractor-related risks.
Subcontractor risk insurance needs typically include:
- General liability – protects against third-party claims of bodily injury or property damage caused by subcontractor activities
- Professional liability (errors and omissions insurance) – covers any mistakes or oversights in the design, engineering, or installation process
- Workers’ compensation insurance – protects subcontractor employees working on the project
- Contractors’ all-risk (CAR) insurance – covers physical damage to materials, fiber cables, and equipment during installation.
- Cyber insurance – helps safeguard against potential data breaches or cyberattacks during deployment.
Proper insurance management helps mitigate financial and operational risks, promoting project success. Fast and efficient surety and bonding programs are needed to help with speed to market.
Broadband investment and subcontractor governance
In the fiber service provider industry, subcontractors face unique risks, including gas line strikes and electrical hazards, during installation. These incidents can result in severe property damage, personal injury, or fatalities, exposing the service provider to liability for repairs, legal claims, and service disruptions. To mitigate these risks, effective risk transfer through insurance and contractual agreements is essential.
Subcontractors should be required to carry appropriate insurance coverage, including general liability, workers’ compensation, and coverage for gas line or electrical strikes. This shifts the financial burden of accidents from the service provider to the subcontractor’s insurer. Additionally, contractual agreements should clearly define safety obligations, indemnity clauses, and compliance with industry standards and regulations.
By ensuring that subcontractors meet stringent insurance requirements and adhering to contractually mandated safety protocols, fiber service providers can reduce their exposure to financial loss, legal liabilities, and reputational damage.
Global expertise, local execution
With decades of experience across diverse industries, The Baldwin Group has built a reputation for delivering digital infrastructure solutions that are not only robust but highly tailored to the specific needs of our clients. We combine global insights with local execution, helping ensure that our clients benefit from the best of both worlds: world-class strategies and local market expertise.
Unlock the full potential of your assets/operations with the insurance experience, cutting-edge technology, and specialty expertise that The Baldwin Group’s Digital Infrastructure Practice can bring to your business.
For more information
We’re ready to help when you are. Get in touch and one of our experienced Baldwin advisors will reach out to have a conversation about your business or individual needs and goals, then make a plan to map your path to the possible.
This document is intended for general information purposes only and should not be construed as advice or opinions on any specific facts or circumstances. The content of this document is made available on an “as is” basis, without warranty of any kind. The Baldwin Insurance Group Holdings, LLC (“The Baldwin Group”), its affiliates, and subsidiaries do not guarantee that this information is, or can be relied on for, compliance with any law or regulation, assurance against preventable losses, or freedom from legal liability. This publication is not intended to be legal, underwriting, or any other type of professional advice. The Baldwin Group does not guarantee any particular outcome and makes no commitment to update any information herein or remove any items that are no longer accurate or complete. Furthermore, The Baldwin Group does not assume any liability to any person or organization for loss or damage caused by or resulting from any reliance placed on that content. Persons requiring advice should always consult an independent adviser.
