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 Employers' Liability Insurance?

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 Employers' Liability Insurance 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.

What’s Covered in Employers' Liability Insurance?

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, you may need additional cover such as:

• Public Liability Insurance – Protects against claims from customers or third parties.
• Business Building Insurance – Covers damage to your premises and business assets.
• Professional Indemnity Insurance – Protection against claims for professional advice or services.
• Business Interruption Insurance – Income protection if your business operations are disrupted.

At Insurably, we have access to 100's of insurer markets, meaning that no matter how unique your requirements are, we know where to find the right cover to suit you.

Start your quote online, and rest assured that we’re working hard to match you with the best insurer, ensuring you get the coverage you need.