Who typically pays for the surety bond?

The principal seeking the bond is typically the party responsible for paying for the surety bond. In a surety bond arrangement, the principal is the entity or individual who needs the bond to guarantee their obligations, often in the context of construction projects or service contracts. When the principal approaches a surety company to obtain a bond, they will usually cover the cost associated with the bond, which can include premiums and fees.

Understanding this payment structure is crucial because it underscores the relationship dynamics between the parties involved: the principal, the surety, and the project owner. The project owner may benefit from having the bond in place, as it provides a level of security that the principal will fulfill their obligations. However, it is the principal's responsibility to finance the bond itself, making them the key party in terms of payment.