Choosing the Right Insurance Limits for Your Clothing Shop

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How to set the correct cover limits for stock, liability and income protection

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We compare quotes from leading insurers

  • Allianz
  • Aviva
  • QBE
  • RSA
  • Zurich
  • NIG

WHY INSURANCE LIMITS MATTER

The Cost of Getting Limits Wrong

Insurance limits determine the maximum amount an insurer will pay following a claim. If limits are set too low, you may face significant shortfalls even when a claim is accepted.

Clothing shops are particularly exposed due to fluctuating stock levels, seasonal collections and high customer footfall.

Setting the Right Stock & Contents Limits

Your stock and contents limit should reflect the maximum value at risk, not just your average trading position.

Seasonal peaks, new collections and sale stock all need to be considered to avoid underinsurance at the worst possible time.


  • Insure stock at cost price unless agreed otherwise
  • Allow for seasonal and promotional uplifts
  • Include fixtures, fittings and displays
  • Review limits after new collections arrive
  • Avoid average clauses reducing claims

Choosing Public Liability Limits

Public liability limits should reflect footfall, premises layout and potential injury severity rather than simply choosing the cheapest option.


  • £2m–£5m common for most clothing shops
  • Higher limits for busy or city-centre stores
  • Consider fitting rooms and children exposure
  • Landlord or lease requirements may apply
  • Limits apply per claim, not per year

Business Interruption Limits & Indemnity Periods

Business interruption limits are often misunderstood. They should reflect gross profit or turnover over the full recovery period, not just a few months of trading.


  • Choose indemnity periods of 12–24 months
  • Allow for delays in repairs and refits
  • Consider seasonal sales cycles
  • Include ongoing wages and rent
  • Avoid caps that restrict recovery

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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What happens if my shop is underinsured?

If you are underinsured, insurers may apply an average clause, reducing the amount paid even if the claim is otherwise valid.

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How often should insurance limits be reviewed?

At least annually, and whenever stock levels, turnover or shop layout changes significantly.

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Should I insure stock at retail or cost price?

Most policies insure stock at cost price unless otherwise agreed with the insurer.

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Are higher liability limits expensive?

Increasing liability limits is often relatively inexpensive compared to the protection gained.

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Can Insure24 help calculate the right limits?

Yes. Insure24 advisers can help assess your risks and recommend appropriate limits for your shop.

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