Working as a plumber carries risks that go beyond blocked pipes and leaking taps. Whether self-employed or running a small team, plumber insurance helps provide financial protection when accidents happen or claims arise. From customer injury to damaged property, knowing what real plumber insurance claims look like helps highlight why the right cover matters.
We have outlined common claim scenarios plumbers face in the UK and how different types of insurance can help protect your business.
Common Plumber Insurance Claims in the UK
1. Accidental Water Damage
A plumber fits a new pipe in a client’s kitchen. Hours later, a joint fails, flooding the room and damaging flooring and appliances. The customer holds the plumber responsible.
In this case, public liability insurance could help cover:
- Repair costs for property damage
- Replacement of damaged items
- Legal defence if the client takes legal action
Public liability insurance is designed to help with claims where work causes damage or injury to others.
2. Customer Injury on Site
A homeowner trips over a plumber’s tool bag and breaks a wrist. Even though it was not intentional, the plumber could face an injury claim.
Again, public liability insurance can cover the cost of:
- Medical expenses
- Compensation payments
- Legal costs linked to the injury claim
Without cover, such a claim could become expensive for a small business or sole trader.
3. Faulty Installation or Negligent Work
A plumber installs a new bathroom but a hidden leak causes long-term damage to the structure of the building. The client claims for the repair costs and loss of use.
Professional indemnity insurance cover may be relevant if the claim relates to professional mistakes or negligent work. It can cover:
- Investigation costs
- Compensation payouts
- Legal defence costs
Professional indemnity is often arranged alongside public liability for plumbers working on larger projects or offering specialist services.
4. Stolen Tools from a Van
While parked overnight, a plumber’s van is broken into. Thousands of pounds worth of tools and equipment are taken.
Tool cover insurance can help with:
- Replacement of stolen tools
- Costs to get back to work quickly
- Cover for both hand tools and power tools
Most tool insurance policies specify security requirements, such as locked vans and approved storage, so checking the level of cover is important.
5. Employee Injury
A plumbing business with employees faces a claim after a staff member injures themselves while lifting equipment.
Employers’ liability insurance is legally required in the UK if a business employs anyone. It helps cover:
- Employee injury claims
- Medical treatment costs
- Legal fees and compensation
Employers’ liability insurance ensures businesses meet legal obligations while protecting against unexpected incidents.
Why Real Claims Show the Value of Plumber Insurance
These real-world scenarios highlight why plumber insurance is designed to help cover a wide range of risks:
- Protecting customers
- Protecting staff
- Protecting equipment
- Protecting the business itself
By arranging tailored insurance through a broker, plumbers can find the right type of cover and amount of cover that matches how they work. Whether self-employed or running a small team, the peace of mind provided by having insurance in place could make a real difference when things go wrong.
How Brokers Can Help
We support plumbers by arranging tailored plumber insurance packages that fit their business. This can include:
- Public liability insurance
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Employers’ liability insurance
- Tool cover insurance
By working with a broker, plumbers get help choosing the right policies, making sure no important cover is missed.