The Capital Trustees Board has unanimously approved a proposal to make liability insurance mandatory for all demolition permit applications.
The proposal, introduced by board member Dr Bashar Ahmedi, seeks to enhance public safety, protect property and enforce stronger accountability within the construction and demolition sector.
It has now been formally referred to Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak for review.
Board technical committee chairman Mubarak Ahmed Al Nuaimi described the measure as a long-overdue step towards safer urban development practices.
“Mandatory liability insurance will create a safer demolition environment for residents, workers and surrounding properties,” Mr Al Nuaimi said.
“It ensures that in the event of damage or injuries, affected individuals have guaranteed protection and compensation. This is both responsible and necessary.”
The committee emphasised that the proposal, if implemented, would strengthen transparency and legal responsibility for contractors and executing companies.
It also highlighted the need for clear regulations governing insurance premiums.
According to the committee’s report, ‘insurance fees should be determined based on the size, type, location and risk profile of the building’, ensuring fairness and adequate coverage.
Mr Al Nuaimi further stressed that effective enforcement must be paired with active oversight.
“Field inspections are essential,” he said. “To make this policy effective, regulatory teams must monitor demolition sites to ensure safety standards are upheld.”
Dr Ahmedi explained that the idea originated from concerns over unsafe or poorly supervised demolition activities in densely populated areas.
“A single mistake during demolition can cause severe damage,” he said.
“My proposal ensures that every contractor has insurance coverage so the public does not bear the consequences of negligence.
“Safety insurance is standard in developed countries. Implementing it in Bahrain will modernise our urban safety framework and protect lives and property.
“We are confident the ministry will recognise the importance of this policy for Bahrain’s urban future.”
Dr Ahmedi said if approved at the ministerial level, the new rule will apply to all individuals and companies filing demolition permit requests, marking a significant shift towards safer, more accountable demolition practices across Bahrain.
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