Contractor Public Liability Insurance

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Essential insurance for contractors, freelancers and self-employed professionals working on-site or providing services to clients.

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We work with leading UK contractor insurers

ESSENTIAL LIABILITY COVER FOR CONTRACTORS & SELF-EMPLOYED PROFESSIONALS

  • CLIENT PROTECTION

  • ON-SITE RISKS

  • CONTRACTUAL COMPLIANCE

  • PROFESSIONAL WORK

Why Contractors Need Public Liability Insurance

Contractors often work at client premises, construction sites, commercial properties or public areas. If you accidentally injure a member of the public or damage property during your work, you could face significant financial claims. Many clients require proof of public liability insurance before contractors can start work, especially for larger organisations or those operating under IR35 compliance rules.

Key Features of Contractor Public Liability Insurance

Tailored cover for self-employed contractors across multiple industries.


  • Protection if third-party property is damaged during your work.
  • Cover for accidental injury to clients, visitors or members of the public.
  • Optional tools, equipment and stock cover.
  • Products liability for goods supplied or installed.
  • Indemnity limits from £1m to £10m+ depending on contract needs.
  • Cover for subcontractors (labour-only or bona fide).
  • Work at height, heat use, and specialist trade cover (subject to approval).
  • Evidence of insurance available for site inductions & compliance checks.

Common Risks Faced by Contractors


  • Accidental damage to customer property.
  • Trips, slips or falls involving members of the public.
  • Damage caused by tools, ladders, equipment or materials.
  • Heat-related work such as welding, soldering or grinding.
  • Contractual insurance requirements for commercial clients.
  • Claims arising from subcontractor activities.
  • High-risk environments such as construction or industrial sites.
  • Limited evidence of insurance delaying project start dates.

Why Choose Insure24 for Contractor Liability Insurance?


  • Specialist cover for contractors across multiple trades & sectors.
  • Fast documentation for client onboarding & site access.
  • Support for contractors working outside IR35 or on short-term engagements.
  • Competitive premiums for low-risk and medium-risk trades.
  • Flexible options for subcontracting and labour-only teams.
  • UK-based support team for claims & documentation queries.
  • Multi-product discounts when combined with PI, tools or commercial vehicle.

How to Arrange Contractor Public Liability Insurance


  • 1. Tell us your trade, experience & work type.
  • 2. Confirm locations, height limits & any heat-related work.
  • 3. Provide turnover and subcontractor details (if applicable).
  • 4. We compare insurers that support your trade.
  • 5. You receive tailored quotes with options for tools, vehicles and PI.

Contractors & Trades We Arrange Cover For

Suitable for a wide range of trades and industries.

Construction & Property Trades


  • Builders
  • Plasterers
  • Carpenters / Joiners
  • Electricians
  • Plumbers
  • Roofers
  • Painters & Decorators

Professional & Technical Roles


  • IT Contractors
  • Consultants
  • Engineers
  • Surveyors
  • Project Managers
  • Specialist Freelancers

I needed public liability insurance quickly so I could start a contract. Insure24 got me covered the same day and sent documents straight to the client.

Mark T., Electrical Contractor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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Is contractor public liability insurance mandatory?

It is not required by law but is required by most clients, contractors, councils and main contractors before any work can begin.

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How much public liability cover do I need?

Most contractors choose between £1m and £5m, but some commercial clients require £10m+. We can advise based on your contracts.

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Does this cover subcontractors?

Labour-only subcontractors are usually covered automatically. Bona fide subcontractors typically need their own liability insurance. We can guide you on what applies.

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Can I combine this with professional indemnity and tools cover?

Yes – many contractors bundle public liability, PI and tools cover for full protection. Discounts may apply when combined.

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Can I pay monthly?

Yes – monthly payments are available via premium finance (subject to status).

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