Public liability insurance for small businesses

What is public liability insurance?

Public liability insurance covers your small business in the event of a claim being made against it by a member of the public following an incident at your business premises. 

Claims can come from customers, contractors and members of the public and other third parties, and your policy can cover against claims for injury, illness and property damage.

Get public liability insurance for your small business from our insurance partner Markel Direct and:

• Get tailored quotes in minutes
• Get covered and all your documents the same day
• UK-based expert support, online and on the phone

Do I need public liability insurance cover?

Public liability insurance is a type of cover that relates to claims made by members of the public, customers or other third parties for injury or property damage in connection with a business’s activities. It is often associated with businesses that engage with people in public spaces or carry out work at client premises.

Public liability insurance is not a legal requirement in the UK for all businesses. However, some organisations, clients or suppliers may specify that a certain level of public liability cover is in place before work can begin. Requirements of this nature are determined by the parties involved and can vary from one agreement or sector to another.

Public liability insurance may apply in circumstances where a business interacts not only with customers but also with other individuals, such as members of the public who are present when business activities are taking place.