Employers' Liability
Insurance
What is Employers' Liability Insurance?
Employers' Liability Insurance is a legal requirement for most UK businesses that employ staff. It protects your business against claims from employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Whether you run a shop, trade business, office, or construction site, this insurance ensures that you are covered if an employee makes a claim against you.
For small businesses, contractors, sole traders with employees, and large companies, Employers' Liability Insurance is essential for legal compliance and financial protection.
Who Needs This?
If you employ staff, whether full-time, part-time, temporary, or even volunteers, you are legally required to have Employers' Liability Insurance. This includes:
- Retailers & Shop Owners – Covers claims from employees injured while working in your store.
- Tradespeople & Contractors – Protection for workers who may suffer accidents or health issues due to their job.
- Hospitality Businesses – Essential for restaurants, cafés, and pubs where staff may face risks from kitchen hazards, spills, or heavy lifting.
- Offices & Service Providers – Covers employees who may experience workplace injuries such as slips, falls, or repetitive strain injuries.
- Manufacturing & Industrial Businesses – Protects against injuries caused by machinery, chemicals, or workplace conditions.
Why is it Important?
Even with the best health and safety measures in place, workplace injuries and illnesses can still happen. Without insurance, legal fees and compensation claims could significantly impact your business.
Common risks that Employers' Liability Insurance protects against include:
- Slips, Trips & Falls – Covers claims if an employee is injured due to hazards in the workplace.
- Work-Related Illness – Protection if employees develop conditions due to their working environment, such as hearing loss or respiratory issues.
- Injuries from Machinery or Tools – Covers claims if an employee is injured using workplace equipment.
- Legal Costs – Covers defence and settlement fees if an employee makes a claim against you.
Coverage at a Glance
Know exactly what you're protected against.
What's Covered
Employers' Liability Insurance policies typically include:
- Compensation Costs – Covers claims for employee injuries or illnesses.
- Legal Defence Fees – Protection against legal costs associated with claims.
- Medical Expenses – Covers treatment costs for injured employees.
- Rehabilitation Costs – Helps employees return to work after an injury or illness.
What's Not Covered
- Injuries to non-employees – Covered under Public Liability Insurance.
- Claims from self-employed individuals unless they are considered employees in legal terms.
- Fines or penalties for failing to have Employers' Liability Insurance.
Additional Cover You May Need
Depending on your business type, consider adding these protections.
Get the right cover for your business
At Insurably, we have access to 100's of insurer markets. No matter how unique your requirements, we find the right cover to suit you.
What does Employers' Liability cover you for?
Employers' Liability Insurance is a legal requirement if you employ staff, protecting your business against claims for workplace injuries or illnesses. Insurably® makes arranging cover straightforward, helping you stay compliant while ensuring your team is properly protected.
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