Running a tanning salon can be a rewarding venture, but it is not without its risks. Whether operating high-street premises or mobile sunbed hire, the potential for costly claims is real. Understanding the value of tanning salon insurance could be key to protecting both your finances and professional reputation.

The Real Risks Tanning Salons Face

Tanning salons work with powerful equipment, regulated products, and intimate client interactions. Even with thorough safety protocols, issues can still occur. Some of the most common risks include:

• Skin reactions or burns from UV exposure or cosmetic products

• Fire damage resulting from faulty sunbeds or electrical systems

• Injuries caused by slips, trips, or falls on salon premises

• Property damage to furniture, fixtures, or rented space

• Claims for negligent advice, especially when recommending products or session durations

Each of these could lead to claims from clients or third parties. Without suitable cover, even a single incident could result in significant financial loss.

What Could Be Covered by Tanning Salon Insurance?

While policies differ between providers, a comprehensive tanning salon insurance package might help protect against several core risks:

Public Liability Insurance

This type of cover is often considered essential. It could respond to claims if a customer is injured or their property is damaged due to your business activities. For instance, if a client trips over a loose cable in your waiting area, public liability cover may help with compensation costs.

Treatment Liability Insurance

Not all beauty treatment policies automatically include this. If your salon offers services that involve direct client contact or cosmetic procedures, such as spray tanning, this additional cover could protect against claims linked to allergic reactions, skin damage, or improper technique.

Product Liability Insurance

If your salon sells or supplies tanning lotions or aftercare products, product liability insurance might be necessary. It could assist with claims if a product you provided causes an adverse reaction.

Employers’ Liability Insurance

If your salon hires staff, even on a casual or part-time basis, employers’ liability insurance is likely required by law in the UK. This cover could help protect your business if a staff member becomes injured or ill due to work-related duties.

Contents and Equipment Cover

Salon-grade sunbeds and ventilation systems can be expensive. Equipment cover might help protect against theft, accidental damage, or fire. For many salons, this is critical for avoiding downtime and loss of income.

Why Gaps in Cover Are Common

One of the most frequent mistakes salon owners make is assuming that a generic beauty therapist insurance policy provides adequate protection. However, tanning comes with specific risks that might not be addressed unless the policy is tailored. For example, some insurers may exclude treatment cover unless specifically requested. Others might not automatically include mobile equipment if it is hired out for home use.

How We Help Support Salons

We help clients find policies that match the real-world needs of tanning professionals. From individual sunbed operators to established salons with employees, our role is to help you compare the covers available from trusted UK insurers. By highlighting the common exclusions and optional extras, we support salon owners in avoiding expensive oversights.