Tradesman Insurance

Skilled tradesmen, such as carpenters, plumbers and electricians are exposed to a wide range of hazards at work and need to ensure that they are properly protected.

For tradesmen, the stakes are also potentially higher than in other sectors as the physical nature of the work, coupled with dangerous equipment means accidents frequently occur.

If you own a business carrying out work related to building, electrics, plastering, plumbing or roofing, you are strongly recommended to take out a Public Liability Insurance and/or Employers Liability Insurance policy to protect against claims made by customers, the public, staff or sub-contractors. Many customers require proof of certification of public liability insurance.

With our comprehensive range of cover available, you can rest assured that we will find the insurance policy at a highly competitive price that will give you maximum cover and protect for you and your business.

We have extensive knowledge and experience of a variety of different Insurers and their policies. We can provide you with full advice on liabilities so let our team of insurance brokers discuss your particular business needs and arrange the right level of cover to ensure you are fully protected.

We work with all of the main UK insurers so we can offer expert advice to ensure your business is well protected. For the peace of mind that you have the right business insurance cover please give us a call on 01603 954 841, send us an email or pop in and see us. Drayton are based, within the Suffolk, Norfolk & East Anglia region.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need Public Liability Insurance?

Although it is not a legal requirement, Public Liability insurance should be considered essential for any business to cover against costs incurred should a third party be injured injure themselves or have their property damaged as a result of your business activities where you could be found to be at fault.

  • Do I need Employers Liability Insurance?

Employers Liability insurance is a legal requirement if you have employees, volunteers or certain sub-contractors, as you have a duty of care and could be held liable if they are injured as a result of working for you.

  • What other covers can I add to a Tradesman Policy?

Whilst the core of a Tradesman policy is cover for Liability, you can add additional covers such as Personal Accident, Tools, Contract Works & Plant Machinery or Legal Expenses.

What insurance do tradesmen need?

Tradesmen need a variety of insurance cover to protect themselves and their businesses. Some of the most common types of insurance for tradesmen include:
- Public liability insurance: This insurance covers you for any damage or injury that you cause to third parties while working.
- Employers' liability insurance: This insurance covers you for any claims made by your employees if they are injured while working.
- Professional indemnity insurance: This insurance covers you for any claims made against you for professional negligence.
- Tools and equipment insurance: This insurance covers you for the cost of replacing your tools and equipment if they are stolen or damaged.

Do tradesmen need insurance?

In the UK, it is not legally required for tradesmen to have insurance. The exception to this is Employers Liability cover, which is required by law should you have Employees, Temporary Employees or Labour Only Sub Contractors. However, it is strongly advised that they do so. Insurance can protect you from financial loss if something goes wrong while you are working.

Are there different types of tradesmen insurance policies available?

Most insurance companies offer tradesmen insurance, and each will have their own distinct features and benefits. If you are a cleaner for example, you may wish to include cover for Damage to Property Worked Upon; and if you are a builder, you may wish to include cover for Defective Workmanship, Contract Works or any Own or Hired in Plant. The benefit of using a professional insurance broker is that we are experienced in providing professional advice to ensure that any quotation received meets the needs of you and your business.

Can I get tradesmen insurance if I work as a sole trader or as part of a company?

Yes, you can get tradesmen insurance if you work as a sole trader, a partnership, or a private limited company. Whatever your legal entity, we will be able to find the right cover for you.

Are there any requirements or obligations I need to fulfil to qualify for tradesmen insurance?

Each insurer will have their own set of criteria and they may impose certain requirements or obligations on your policy to limit potential risk. This could include:
- A Height Limit, such as working no higher than 10 metres.
- A Depth Limit, such as excavating no deeper than 2 metres.
- Specific storage requirements for tools and equipment.
- Certain conditions for the use of heat producing tools.
When proposing a policy to you, we will always make you aware of any significant or unusual conditions or exclusions so that you are best placed to make an informed decision.

Can I add coverage for tools, equipment, or stock to my tradesmen insurance policy?

Yes, you can add coverage for tools, equipment, or stock to your tradesmen insurance policy. This coverage will protect you from financial loss if your tools, equipment, or stock are stolen or damaged.

Does tradesmen insurance cover liability for accidents or injuries that occur on the job?

Yes, tradesmen insurance typically covers liability for accidents or injuries that arise through the course of your business. This could include:
- Public Liability - which covers injury or damage to third parties and their property.
- Employers Liability - which covers injury or illness to employees of the business caused as a result of their work.
Your insurance company will usually pay for any medical expenses, as well as potential compensation and any other damages.

Can I customise my tradesmen insurance policy to meet the specific needs of my trade or profession?

Absolutely, you can customise your tradesmen insurance policy to meet the specific needs of your trade or profession. This means that you can add or remove coverages, increase or decrease the level of coverage, and often set an excess.

What factors affect the cost of tradesmen insurance?

The cost of tradesmen insurance will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- The type of work you do.
- Your annual turnover.
- The number of people working in the business.
- The height or depth you work at.
- Whether you use heat-producing tools.
- Your location.
- Your claims history.
We will usually approach a range of insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you find the best policy for your needs and budget.

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