Loss lessons 7:
Fire in living quarters at a renovation work site

On July 25th, a fire broke out at the work site for renovations on a historic building (23,000 m2) located right in the center of Paris. This building was undergoing major renovations with restoration of its historic façades.

The fire broke out in the bungalows of the site’s living quarters, installed the length of the façade, erected over the street, stacked 4 levels high and supported by metal trusses.

The alarm was sounded at around 7 p.m. by passers-by and employees still present at the work site. Despite quick intervention, it took the Paris fire department more than one hour to bring the fire under control.

Occupancy: Major renovations on a Haussmann-era building in downtown Paris

Insurance Cover: Construction All Risks Policy

Damage:

• Destruction of 14 bungalows (removal and replacement costs: € 200,000)
• Façade rework (€ 20,000)
• Delay in start up penalties (€ 100,000)