Public liability: what it covers
Public liability insurance generally covers claims from members of the public for injury or property damage caused by your work. For example, if a customer trips over your tools, or a leak you caused damages their ceiling. Policies differ, so read what is and is not covered, including any limits on the amount.
Employers' liability
If you employ people, there is a legal requirement in most cases to have employers' liability insurance, with some exemptions. Rules and definitions of who counts as an employee can be tricky, so check the current guidance on GOV.UK or the Health and Safety Executive, or ask a broker.
Other cover tradespeople look at
- Tools and equipment cover, in case your kit is stolen or damaged
- Professional indemnity, if you give advice or design work
- Contract works insurance for larger jobs
- Van insurance, which is separate from the above
Why customers and schemes ask
Customers want to know they are protected if something goes wrong. Some trade schemes, letting agents, commercial clients and larger contractors require proof of cover before they will use you. Having it, and saying so truthfully on your website and quotes, is a trust signal.
Reading a policy: what to check
- The limit of indemnity: the most the insurer will pay for a claim. Customers or contracts may ask for a minimum
- The excess: the amount you pay towards any claim
- Exclusions: work or situations the policy does not cover, for example work at height or hot work
- Conditions: things you must do for cover to apply, such as keeping records or using qualified staff
- Territory and period: where and when the policy applies
- Whether it covers subcontractors, and temporary or casual workers
If something goes wrong on site
Make the situation safe, look after anyone who is hurt, and take photos and notes of what happened. Tell your insurer promptly, because policies often require quick notice, and follow their instructions. Be careful what you say about fault until you have spoken to them, and be honest and courteous with the customer.
Showing your cover to customers
Keep a copy of your certificate on your phone and offer it when asked. On your website, a simple line such as "Fully insured" is fine if it is true. Some tradespeople show the level of cover, but only do that if it is accurate and current.
Common misunderstandings
- Vehicle insurance does not cover your work or your tools in the way a business policy does
- A home insurance policy usually does not cover business activity
- Cover can lapse if you forget to renew, so put renewal dates in your diary
- A policy for one trade does not automatically cover another
Questions to ask a broker
- What is the level of cover, and is it enough for the jobs I do?
- Are there exclusions for work I do, such as working at height, hot work, or certain materials?
- Does it cover my subcontractors, and apprentices if I have them?
- What do I need to tell you if my work changes?
- Can I get a certificate I can show customers?
What to say on your website
If you hold public liability insurance, say so plainly, and be ready to show the certificate. Do not claim cover you do not have, or imply a level of cover you cannot prove. Make sure your insurance is in date.
Common questions
Is public liability insurance a legal requirement?
For most self-employed tradespeople it is not a general legal requirement, but customers, contracts and trade schemes often require it. Employers' liability is normally compulsory if you employ people.
How much does it cost?
It varies a great deal by trade, the jobs you do, claims history and level of cover. Get quotes from a broker or insurers rather than relying on a figure from a website.
Do I need it if I work alone?
It is not usually a legal requirement, but many tradespeople still take it because one claim can be very costly. Decide with a broker.
Is this insurance advice?
No. It is a general explanation. Ask a broker or insurer about your own situation.
Do customers check my insurance?
Many do, especially for bigger jobs, and some contracts and schemes require a certificate.
Can I get cover as a new tradesperson?
Yes. Insurers and brokers cover new businesses. Compare quotes and read the details.
How often should I review my cover?
Every year at renewal, and whenever the type of work you do changes.
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