Employer's liability insurance explained

Employers’ liability insurance makes sure you’re covered if anything happens to your employees as a result of the work they do for you. It gives you peace of mind as a business owner and it reassures them that you’re serious about their welfare.

It’s not just for permanent employees – you might face a claim against you from self-employed contractors, temporary staff or even volunteers. Having employers’ liability insurance in place means you’re covered if anyone makes a claim against you. We can cover you up to £10 million for legal costs, compensation and expenses.

What does employers' liability cover do?
Even with the most careful attention to health and safety, accidents still happen. They might be your fault, their fault, or just a freak accident, but even if you know you’re not to blame, you could still have to fight allegations even after the employee has left the company. Employers’ liability covers you for the legal costs and any compensation you may have to pay.

When should I get employers' liability insurance?
If you run a limited company and you employ anyone, in any capacity, no matter what they’re doing or how many hours they work, it’s a legal requirement to have employers’ liability insurance. Whether they’re full-time, part-time or even working for you as a volunteer, If you don’t have a policy in place you could face a hefty fine, even without anyone being injured or ill.

How much employers' liability cover will I need?
Working out how much cover you need means understanding what you might be liable for. It’s not just employees and contractors, it's anyone working for you in any capacity – trainees, apprentices, even just a friend helping out at the weekend. If they’re doing work for you and they’re injured or become ill because of it, you’d be liable. The legal requirement is £5m but we can cover you up to £10m to make sure you’re protected.