What is public liability insurance?

Public liability insurance will help protect your business if a claim is made against you, e.g. if something happens at work that results in injury to a customer, a member of the public or damage to someone’s property

It’ll protect your business against damage and the cost of legal claims people make against you, if you’ve done something that’s resulted in injury to a member of the public or damage to their property.

Product liability insurance offers protection if a product that you manufacture, sell, install, repair or alter causes injury or illness to a customer, or damages their property. For example, if you sell electrical goods that have caused injuries to a customer and you’re found to be at fault, then public liability cover will help go towards the cost of compensation and legal fees.

What type of businesses need public liability insurance?

Ask yourself some questions:

• Does your business provide a service or undertake a trade?
• Do you interact with the public, in any way, as a company or sole trader?

If so, then this type of insurance should be on your radar.

From tradesmen to self-employed entrepreneurs, shop owners to professionals, we’ve supported hundreds of small businesses to protect themselves against legal claims.

When would I need public liability insurance?

Accidents happen, no matter how careful you are. But did you know that many customers require you to have public liability before they sign a contract with you? With AXA, you’ll get proof of your public liability cover – so you can show it whenever you need to.

If you're ready to get started, click the button below to get a business insurance quote and protect your business today.

How much public liability insurance do I need?

Every business is different, so it’s down to you to decide how much cover your business requires.

You should consider the level of risk that your business faces. It could also be worth checking in with your clients to see if they expect a certain level of cover. We can provide you with up to £5m public liability protection – but you can adjust your cover to fit your business needs.

Is public liability insurance a legal requirement?

It isn’t a legal requirement – but investing in public liability insurance can help your business when mistakes cause unexpected (or potentially costly) challenges.

Some of your clients may require or prefer you to have certain levels of public liability insurance cover before they’ll work with you – and having it will also help your business appear more professional.

Does public liability insurance cover employees?

No, public liability insurance doesn’t cover employees. It only offers you protection against claims made by third parties. If you’re looking for protection to cover employees, then you’ll need employers’ liability insurance. You can read more about AXA’s employers’ liability cover here, and if you wish, you can combine it with your public liability cover when you get a quote.

Meaning you’re protected, no matter what happens in the future.