What Insurance Does a Storage Facility Need?

A complete UK guide to insurance cover for warehouses, storage units and distribution centres

We compare quotes from leading insurers

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

CORE INSURANCE FOR STORAGE FACILITIES

  • PROPERTY & BUILDINGS

  • STOCK & GOODS

  • PUBLIC & EMPLOYERS’ LIABILITY

  • BUSINESS INTERRUPTION

Understanding Storage Facility Insurance Requirements

Storage facilities face a wide range of risks, from fire and flood to liability claims, theft, stock damage and operational disruption. The right insurance package protects your buildings, stored goods, staff and income while meeting legal and contractual obligations.

Essential Insurance Cover for Storage Facilities


  • Property insurance for buildings and structures
  • Stock and goods in storage (own and customers’ goods)
  • Public liability for third-party injury or damage
  • Employers’ liability (legally required if staff are employed)
  • Business interruption and loss of income

Additional Insurance to Consider


  • Equipment & machinery insurance (forklifts, conveyors)
  • Stock deterioration and temperature failure cover
  • Management & directors’ liability insurance
  • Cyber & data protection insurance
  • Goods in transit and handling risks

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

+-Is storage facility insurance legally required?

Employers’ Liability insurance is legally required if you employ staff. Other covers are not compulsory but are strongly recommended.

+-Do I need insurance for customers’ goods?

Yes. If you store goods belonging to customers, you should arrange cover for goods held in trust or under contract.

+-How much public liability cover do storage facilities need?

Most facilities choose limits between £1m and £5m, depending on footfall and contractual requirements.

+-Does business interruption cover loss of income?

Yes. Business interruption insurance can cover loss of income and ongoing costs following insured damage to your facility.

+-Can insurance be combined into one policy?

Yes. Most storage facilities arrange a combined or package policy covering multiple risks under one contract.

Related Covers

This guide to what cover you need should connect into checklist, comparison, combined-package and cost-planning pages.