Public Liability Insurance for Construction

CALL FOR EXPERT ADVICE
GET A QUOTE NOW

Protect your construction business if a member of the public is injured or their property is damaged because of your work – on site, at a client’s premises or in public areas.

CALL FOR EXPERT ADVICE
GET A QUOTE NOW

We compare quotes from leading construction insurers

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

PUBLIC LIABILITY COVER FOR CONTRACTORS & TRADES

Essential Cover for Construction Work Around the Public

Construction sites are high-risk environments. Tools, plant, working at height, excavations, scaffolding and vehicle movements all create the potential for accidents involving members of the public or damage to surrounding property. Public Liability Insurance helps protect your business against the cost of claims, compensation and legal defence.

What Does Construction Public Liability Insurance Cover?

Core protection if your construction activities cause injury or property damage to third parties.

Typical Incidents Covered


  • A member of the public trips over tools, cables or materials on site.
  • Falling objects from scaffolding damage vehicles or property below.
  • Damage to a client’s fixtures, fittings or contents while working.
  • Accidental damage to neighbouring property during excavation or demolition.
  • Injury caused by your machinery, plant or site operations.

Key Features of Cover


  • Legal liability for injury to third parties and damage to third party property.
  • Cover for defence costs and legal expenses (subject to policy terms).
  • Work carried out at clients’ premises and on public/highway sites.
  • Option to include heat work, height work and groundworks (subject to underwriting).
  • Cover can be combined with employers’ liability and contract works insurance.

Who Needs Construction Public Liability Insurance?

Most construction businesses and site trades will need PL cover as a basic requirement.

Typical Policyholders


  • General contractors and principal contractors.
  • Building contractors and refurbishment specialists.
  • Groundworkers, civil engineering and infrastructure contractors.
  • Roofers, scaffolders and steel erectors (subject to specialist terms).
  • Electricians, plumbers, joiners, decorators and other trades.

Why It’s Often Mandatory


  • Required under many main contractor and client contracts.
  • Often a pre-condition for site access or framework agreements.
  • May be required by local authorities for highway and pavement works.
  • Provides reassurance to clients, funders and project stakeholders.

Choosing Limits & Presenting Your Risk to Insurers

We help you select appropriate PL limits and present your construction risk clearly.

Selecting the Right Limit


  • Typical limits: £1m, £2m, £5m or £10m (or higher by arrangement).
  • Check client contracts for minimum PL requirements.
  • Higher limits often needed for large public or infrastructure sites.
  • Consider proximity to third party property and public areas.
  • Umbrella / excess layers can be used for very high limits.

Risk Factors Insurers Look At


  • Types of work (new build, refurbishment, demolition, etc.).
  • Height and depth exposures (roofing, scaffolding, excavations).
  • Use of heat (hot works), flammables and hazardous materials.
  • Claims experience and health & safety record.
  • Subcontractor arrangements and supervision controls.

Why Arrange Construction PL Cover Through Insure24?


  • Access to UK insurers specialising in construction risks.
  • Policies tailored to your trade mix, contract size and risk profile.
  • Help with setting PL limits to satisfy contract and site requirements.
  • Option to package PL with EL, contract works, tools and plant.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

+ -

Is public liability insurance a legal requirement for construction businesses?

Public liability insurance is not a legal requirement in the same way as employers’ liability, but it is effectively mandatory in practice. Most clients, main contractors and local authorities will insist on it before you can work on site.

+ -

What limit of public liability do I need for construction work?

Typical limits range from £1m to £5m, with £10m or higher for larger or higher-risk sites. The right level depends on your project values, type of work and contract requirements – we can help you choose a suitable limit.

+ -

Does public liability cover damage to my own property or staff?

No – public liability covers third party injury and property damage. Damage to your own property would be insured under separate property or contract works cover, and injury to employees is covered under employers’ liability insurance.

+ -

Are higher-risk trades like roofing and scaffolding covered?

Many insurers will consider higher-risk trades, but terms, conditions and premiums will reflect the additional exposure. Accurate disclosure of your activities is essential so we can approach suitable markets.

+ -

Can I combine public liability with other construction covers?

Yes – most construction insurance packages combine public liability with employers’ liability, contract works, tools, plant and other sections. This can be more cost-effective and easier to manage than separate policies.

Related Blogs

Latent Defects Insurance: Structural Defect Coverage

Latent defects insurance represents a critical component of risk management in the construction and property development sectors. This specialized form of coverage protects property owners, developers…

Defects Liability Insurance: Post-Completion Protection

In the construction industry, the completion of a project doesn't mark the end of responsibility. Defects can emerge months or even years after handover, leaving contractors, developers, and proper…

Best Construction Insurance Providers UK 2025

By Insure 24

Best Construction Insurance Providers UK 2025

The construction industry in the UK faces unique risks daily, from equipment damage and public liability claims to professional indemnity issues and project delays. Choosing the right insurance provider can …

Construction Insurance Renewal: 12-Point Checklist

Renewing your construction insurance is one of the most critical tasks you'll undertake as a business owner in the building trade. Whether you're a general contractor, specialist tradesperson, or constr…

Tool Theft on Construction Sites: Insurance Protection

Tool theft on construction sites represents one of the most persistent and costly challenges facing the UK construction industry. With millions of pounds worth of equipment stolen annually, construc…

Scaffolding Insurance: Temporary Works Coverage

Scaffolding contractors face unique risks every day. From working at height to managing expensive equipment and navigating complex liability issues, the scaffolding industry demands specialized insurance p…

Demolition Insurance: High-Risk Work Protection

Demolition work represents one of the most hazardous activities in the construction industry. From bringing down multi-storey buildings to dismantling industrial structures, demolition contractors face uni…

Handyman Insurance: Multi-Trade Coverage Explained

Published on 4 November 2025 | Reading time: 12 minutes

Running a handyman business means juggling multiple trades, unpredictable situations, and significant liability risks. Whether …

Bricklayer Insurance: Masonry & Site Liability

By Insure 24

Bricklayer Insurance: Masonry & Site Liability

Bricklaying is a skilled trade that involves significant risks—from working at heights and handling heavy materials to potential damage claims and workplace injuries. Whether you're a self-employed …

Groundworker Insurance: Excavation & Ground Risks

Groundworkers face some of the most demanding and hazardous conditions on any construction site. From excavating foundations to managing underground utilities, the risks are substantial and multifaceted.…

Carpenter Insurance: Woodwork & Site Risk Protection

Carpentry is a skilled trade that demands precision, expertise, and dedication. Whether you're a self-employed joiner, a small carpentry team, or managing a larger construction outfit, the ris…

Gas Engineer Insurance: Gas Safe & Boiler Installation

Gas engineers and heating technicians face unique risks in their daily work. From boiler installations to emergency repairs, the potential for costly claims is significant. This comprehensive guide …

Construction Insurance Claims: Step-by-Step Process

When accidents, damage, or losses occur on a construction site, knowing how to navigate the insurance claims process can make all the difference. This comprehensive guide walks you through each stage o…