Does Public Liability Insurance Cover Trade and Tradesmen Contractors?

Public liability insurance protects businesses and professionals against claims for personal injuries or property damage caused to third parties. However, does public liability insurance cover trades and tradesmen contractors?

The answer is yes. This insurance is especially important for trades and tradesmen contractors who frequently work in hazardous environments where accidents are more likely.

Understanding public liability insurance

Public liability insurance covers claims for personal injury or property damage caused by a business's activities, such as a customer slipping in a store or a contractor damaging a client's property.

While it’s not a legal requirement in the UK, it’s nearly always a contractual requirement for trades and tradesmen. This coverage ensures contractors can operate with peace of mind. You can safely protect yourself and your business from accidents and substantial financial burdens.

Does public liability insurance cover contractors?

Your public liability insurance should cover contractors for accidental damage to client property and injuries to non-employees.

There are some exclusions to this kind of insurance. It covers incidents like breaking a window on-site or a passer-by being injured by falling debris. It does not protect against issues caused by professional negligence. This kind of claim would require additional coverage like professional indemnity insurance.

Other exclusions include intentional damage and employee injuries, which are covered under employers liability insurance.

Special considerations for different types of contractors

Coverage requirements will vary between you and other contractors due to different risks in each industry.

• Builders face risks like structural damage and on-site injuries
• Electricians deal with electrical faults and fire hazards

Tailored coverage that insures you for the specific accidents you may encounter is very important. This way, no nasty surprises await in the form of potentially devastating financial losses.

How contractors can ensure adequate coverage

As a trades and tradesmen contractor, you can assess your insurance needs by evaluating the nature of your work. Identify potential risks as you go about your day-to-day operations and consider your working environment.

• Plumbers should account for injuries on-site and water damage from burst pipes
• Landscapers would benefit from insurance that covers machinery accidents and property damage
• Painters have to be mindful of spillages and client exposure to chemicals

Customising public liability insurance policies can shield you from the brunt of specific risks. If you feel unsure, consult with insurance professionals.

Choosing the right insurance provider

When comparing insurance policies, focus on coverage details and cost as well as customer reviews. Get quotes from a few different insurance companies before deciding on one. Consider their reputation and make note of their customer service.

Important questions to ask 

• How is the claim handling process?
• Are there any hidden fees?
• What are the renewal terms?
• Are coverage extensions available for specific risks?

Public liability insurance from Towergate

Public liability insurance can be very important for contractors. It can help protect you from the financial consequences of injury or damage claims.

Consider your specific circumstances and potential risks to find the best cover we can offer for you. Ask important questions about the claim, its renewal terms and extensions.

Get a public liability insurance quote

Don't wait until it's too late. Get a public liability insurance quote from us today, either online or by phone on 0330 818 9929.

About the author

Alison Wild BCom (Hons), FMAAT, MATT, Taxation Technician is a highly respected industry professional who has been working with and advising SMEs in areas including tax, pensions, insurance and marketing for over 25 years. She is a member of the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and Association of Tax Technicians (ATT) and also has over 20 years' experience as a residential landlord.