Public liability insurance is a vital form of coverage for businesses and individuals who work in environments where their activities could cause harm or damage to third parties—whether that’s injury to a person or damage to their property. While public liability insurance is commonly associated with businesses, many individuals who work as sole traders, freelancers, or in self-employed roles also face risks that make this type of insurance essential. In this article, we’ll explore whether an individual can get public liability insurance, who needs it, what it covers, and how to choose the right policy.
What is Public Liability Insurance?
Public liability insurance protects policyholders from the financial repercussions of claims made against them for causing injury to third parties or damage to third-party property. For example, if a customer slips on a wet floor in your workspace or if your activities accidentally damage a client’s property, public liability insurance would cover the legal costs and any compensation awarded to the injured party.
While businesses of all sizes commonly take out public liability insurance, individuals in certain professions—such as sole traders, freelancers, or contractors—are often just as exposed to risks. Many clients may even require proof of public liability insurance before hiring an individual for a project, making it a necessary part of working independently.
Can an Individual Get Public Liability Insurance?
Yes, an individual can get public liability insurance. This type of insurance isn’t restricted to large corporations or businesses. Individuals working on a self-employed or freelance basis, or even those offering occasional services like event planning, handyman services, or private tutoring, can and should consider public liability insurance.
Whether you’re a tradesperson working in other people’s homes, a freelancer attending client meetings, or a tutor holding lessons at students’ homes, you’re likely to encounter scenarios where your work could inadvertently cause harm or damage to others. In these situations, having public liability insurance can be a financial lifesaver, helping cover any claims made against you.
Who Should Consider Public Liability Insurance?
While public liability insurance isn’t legally required for most individuals and in many industries, there are many circumstances where having it is highly advisable. Those who may benefit from Individuals Public Liability Insurance include:
Sole Traders and Freelancers
Self-employed individuals and freelancers are effectively running their own businesses, even if they work alone. Whether you’re a plumber, electrician, painter, freelance designer, or something else, your work could put you in situations where you interact with the public or clients. In such cases, you’re exposed to the same risks as any small business, making public liability insurance for sole traders important. Without public liability insurance, you could be liable for covering the legal fees and compensation if a member of the public or a client is harmed or their property damaged as a result of your business activity.
Tradespeople and Contractors
If you’re a tradesperson working on construction sites, in people’s homes, or in commercial buildings, public liability insurance is crucial. Groundworkers, builders, plumbers, and electricians, for example, often carry out work that could result in accidental damage to a client’s property or, worse, injury to someone on-site. Public liability insurance for tradesmen would cover the costs of repairs and any compensation awarded to the client in case of injury or damage.
Event Organisers and Entertainers
Individuals who organise events or work as entertainers—such as DJs, musicians, or party planners—are also at risk. At events, especially those involving large gatherings, the chance of accidents or injuries increases. In these cases, the event organiser or entertainer could be held responsible, even for incidents that are only loosely connected to their role.
Tutors and Instructors
Those who offer educational services, whether academic tutoring or physical instruction like yoga or personal training, often work in environments that are not under their full control. Even if a tutor is working in a client’s home or a rented space, they could still be held liable for accidents or injuries. Public liability insurance for teachers would cover the costs of the participant’s medical costs and any resulting claims.
Consultants and Professionals
Freelance consultants or professionals who frequently meet with clients in their offices or shared spaces may also face risks. While they may not be involved in physically risky work like tradespeople, they could still cause accidental property damage or even be involved in accidents that result in injury to a client or third party.
What Does Public Liability Insurance Cover for Individuals?
The coverage provided by public liability insurance is essentially the same for individuals as it is for businesses. Here are the key areas typically covered:
- Third-Party Injury Claims – If your work results in a member of the public or a client being injured, public liability insurance covers the legal costs associated with defending the claim and any compensation awarded if you’re found liable.
- Third-Party Property Damage – Public liability insurance also covers you if your work damages someone else’s property. This is particularly important for tradespeople, contractors, and event organisers who are often working in environments where such risks are present.
- Legal Fees and Expenses – Even if a claim against you is frivolous or baseless, you could still incur significant legal fees defending yourself. Public liability insurance covers these costs, whether or not you’re found liable in the end.
Public liability insurance is not just for large businesses—individuals working as sole traders, freelancers, or contractors can and should obtain it. The risks of injury or property damage are always present, and a single incident can lead to costly legal battles and compensation claims. By securing public liability insurance, individuals can protect themselves from these financial risks, meet client requirements, and focus on growing their business with peace of mind.
For your very own bespoke quotes, or support finding the right insurance for you as an individual, we are on hand to help. Get in touch with Ashburnham Insurance on FREEPHONE 0800 1696137.