In contrast, said Mikolajewski, claims involving contractors provide "a good opportunity for that company to survive." In that case, said Mikolajewski, the surety and bond producer may need the "best talent" and other resources.

In either situation, a new attitude may also be needed toward claims paid when contractors go into default, suggested M. Ross Fisher, vice president and general manager of The Hartford Construction Group.

"In the past," said Fisher, "I didn't want [a competitor] to know I had a loss. It was a shame." In the current environment, however, completing work for failed contractors should be a source of pride "because it saves the taxpayer enormous amounts of time and money."

"When The Hartford has a loss, we have to be happy about saying, 'We're going to fix it,' " said Fisher. "I'm not sure that we shouldn't put a sign up" that says The Hartford provided the funds necessary to finish the project.