Pub Insurance Checklist

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A complete checklist of the insurance every UK pub should consider

We compare quotes from leading pub insurers

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

Why Every Pub Needs an Insurance Checklist

Running a pub involves a wide range of risks - from customer injuries and staff accidents to property damage, theft, licensing issues and food safety claims. With so many different exposures, it’s easy for important covers to be overlooked.

This pub insurance checklist is designed to help licensees, freeholders and tenants ensure they have the right protection in place, meet legal requirements and avoid costly gaps in cover.

Whether you operate a traditional pub, gastro pub, pub with beer garden or licensed venue, this checklist provides a practical framework to review your insurance.

Step 1: Mandatory Insurance for Pubs

Employers’ Liability Insurance

Employers’ liability insurance is a legal requirement if you employ staff.

  • Minimum £5 million cover required by law
  • Covers injury or illness claims from employees
  • Applies to bar staff, kitchen staff and cleaners

Motor Insurance (If Applicable)

Required if your pub owns or operates vehicles.

  • Delivery vans
  • Company vehicles
  • Occasional business use

Step 2: Essential Insurance for Most Pubs

  • Public Liability Insurance
  • Product Liability (food & drink)
  • Buildings Insurance (freehold pubs)
  • Contents, Fixtures & Fittings Insurance
  • Business Interruption Insurance
  • Glass Breakage Insurance
  • Theft & Vandalism Insurance

Step 3: Additional & Specialist Covers to Consider

  • Liquor Licence & Compliance Risk Insurance
  • Management / Directors’ Liability
  • Food Contamination & Allergen Liability
  • Cyber & Data Protection Insurance
  • Event & Function Insurance
  • Seasonal / Peak Trading Cover

Common Insurance Gaps Identified in Pubs

  • Undeclared beer gardens or outdoor seating
  • Underinsured rebuild costs
  • Missing licence defence cover
  • Inadequate business interruption indemnity periods
  • Uninsured glass and signage

How Insure24 Helps You Complete This Checklist

  • Pub insurance specialists
  • Checklist-led risk reviews
  • Access to leading pub insurers
  • Advice on legal and licence requirements
  • Ongoing policy reviews as your pub evolves

This checklist helped us identify missing cover and reduce our pub insurance risk.

Pub Owner

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is this checklist suitable for all types of pubs?

Yes. It applies to traditional pubs, gastro pubs, pubs with beer gardens and licensed venues.

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Does every pub need the same insurance?

No. Insurance requirements vary depending on size, services, staff and premises.

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How often should pub insurance be reviewed?

At least annually, and whenever your pub changes operations or layout.

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Is employers’ liability always mandatory?

Yes, if you employ staff - even part-time or casual workers.

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Can Insure24 review my existing pub insurance?

Yes. Insure24 can review your current cover against this checklist.