Insurance for tradespeople working in customers' homes
Understand the difference between public liability, employers' liability and other cover.
Applies to: UK businesses; coverage, exclusions and statutory requirements depend on the business.
Last checked: 16 October 2026
Key points
• Public liability cover is generally commercial protection, not a universal registration or licence.
• Employers' liability insurance is generally required when you become an employer, subject to exemptions.
• Check the actual policy for the trade, tools, subcontractors and type of work involved.
Put the advice to work in your business
Discover BuildPair tools for quotes, customers and organising jobs.
Why it matters
Having an insurance certificate is not proof that every kind of loss is covered. A tradesperson doing roofing, structural work or hot works should understand applicable exclusions and limits.
Practical job checklist
• Check the insured business name, activities, limits and expiry date.
• Tell the insurer about unusual work, height, heat, subcontractors and material risks.
• If you employ people, check employers' liability duties and permitted exemptions.
• Keep proof of insurance ready for clients without claiming it guarantees workmanship.
What to do next
Review insurance when the business changes its services or staffing. Report accidents and potential claims promptly under the policy conditions.
Official sources
Use these official sources for the current detail that applies to your job, contract or location.
BuildPair provides general information and signposting, not legal, structural, electrical, gas or building-control approval. Requirements can change and the right answer depends on the work, contract, location and facts.
Related BuildPair guides
One project. Both sides connected.
A fairer UK marketplace and project platform for homeowners and tradespeople, from first search to finished job.
BuildPair is a marketplace and project platform, not a building contractor or building-control body. See Payments, Terms and Disclaimer for full details.