Running a barbershop in the UK involves more than cutting hair. From clippers and chairs to stock and staff, there are many things that need protecting. Barbershop insurance is designed to cover more than just the building, it helps protect your business, equipment, and people.

In this guide, we explain what barbershop insurance actually covers, why it could matter even if you rent your space, and how the right cover might protect against a wide range of risks.

What Is Barbershop Insurance?

Barbershop insurance refers to a bundle of different types of business insurance that could protect shop owners from common risks. It is not a single policy but a collection of covers arranged to suit a barbershop’s needs.

These risks may include:

• Accidents involving clients

• Theft or damage to tools, cash, and stock

• Damage to the premises

• Employee injuries

By arranging tailored insurance cover, barbershops can help ensure they are not left out of pocket if something goes wrong.

Key Types of Cover for Barbershops

Public Liability Insurance

This is often the first cover we recommend arranging. Public liability insurance helps protect against legal actions and compensation costs if a member of the public is injured or their property is damaged in your shop. For example:

• A customer trips over loose flooring

• Hair products spill and cause harm to clothing or belongings

Contents and Equipment Cover

A barbershop depends on tools and equipment. Contents insurance can protect clippers, scissors, chairs, mirrors, and cash registers. It could cover the cost of replacing stolen or damaged items, whether due to fire, flood, or theft.

Employers’ Liability Insurance

If you employ staff, UK law requires employers’ liability insurance. This helps cover legal costs and compensation if an employee is injured or becomes ill due to work.

Stock Insurance

From hair products to grooming tools, your barbershop may hold stock for sale or use. Stock insurance helps cover losses if items are stolen or damaged.

Business Interruption Cover

If your barbershop has to close due to a covered event, business interruption insurance could help with lost income. This might include rent, wages, and bills while the shop cannot trade.

Why Insuring More Than the Premises Matters

While buildings insurance protects the physical structure, many barbers rent premises rather than own them. In those cases, the building may be insured by the landlord, but:

• Tools and stock may not be covered

• Public liability risks remain the barber’s responsibility

• Cash registers and other equipment might not fall under standard contents cover

Arranging barbershop insurance that goes beyond the building helps protect all areas of the business. From clippers to cash registers, having the right level of cover can mean peace of mind.

How Much Cover Might You Need?

The right amount of cover depends on:

• The size of the shop

• The value of tools, equipment, and stock

• The number of employees

We help businesses arrange insurance tailored to their setup, ensuring both small independent shops and larger teams get suitable financial protection if a claim arises.