Contractors Insurance

Comprehensive Insurance for Contractors in the UK

Contracting work can expose professionals to a wide range of risks. Whether working in construction, engineering, IT, or another specialist field, having the right contractors insurance in place can help protect against legal disputes, property damage, accidents, and project delays. As a broker, we can help find tailored cover that reflects the type of contracting work you undertake, the tools and equipment you use, and the clients you serve.
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How It Works

1

Call us or complete our online quote form. We’ll collect a few key details about your business.

2

We’ll contact you to confirm everything, talk through your needs, and match you with the right level of cover.

3

We compare quotes from our panel of 20+ insurers, present your options, and explain the details before you buy.

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Why Choose Us for Contractors Insurance?

Specialists in commercial insurance
Access to 20+ leading UK insurers
Flexible cover tailored to your contracts and operations
Dedicated customer service and claims assistance
Specialist knowledge for niche or higher-risk trades
Affordable monthly payments
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What Is Contractors Insurance?

Contractors insurance refers to a suite of policies that can help cover professionals who operate on a self-employed or subcontracted basis. This type of cover can include protection for third-party claims, employer obligations, tools and equipment, and more.

Typical types of cover include:

  • Public liability insurance – could protect against claims made by third parties for injury or property damage.
  • Employers’ liability insurance – required by law if you hire anyone, even on a temporary basis.
  • Contract works insurance – may cover work in progress, materials, and equipment on-site.
  • Tools and equipment cover – could insure valuable tools in transit, in use, or stored overnight.
  • Professional indemnity insurance – relevant for design, consultancy, or advisory work.
Who Could Need Contractors Insurance?

This type of insurance could be suitable for a wide range of professionals across multiple industries, including but not limited to:

  • Construction contractors
  • Electrical contractors
  • Plumbers and heating engineers
  • IT contractors and consultants
  • Freelance project managers
  • HVAC specialists
  • Groundworkers and landscapers
  • Carpenters and joiners

Even if you’re working under a limited company or as a sole trader, clients may require proof of insurance before awarding contracts.

Why Contractors May Need Insurance

Contractors face unique risks due to the nature of their working arrangements. From accidents on-site to claims of professional negligence, the consequences of being uninsured can be financially devastating. Clients and main contractors often require minimum cover levels before allowing access to a site or signing a contract. Holding suitable insurance can:

  • Help meet client or main contractor requirements
  • Protect against large legal and compensation costs
  • Demonstrate professionalism and compliance
  • Offer peace of mind when managing projects

 

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What Can Contractors Insurance Cover?

While policies vary depending on the insurer and your specific trade, cover can typically include:

1. Public Liability

Could protect you if a third party claims for injury or property damage caused by your work. This is often considered essential by both contractors and clients.

2. Employers’ Liability

Often legally required in the UK for most contractors with employees or labour-only subcontractors. Can cover legal fees and compensation if a worker suffers illness or injury.

3. Contract Works Insurance

May cover materials, temporary buildings, and ongoing work if damaged by fire, flood, theft or vandalism before project completion.

4. Tools and Equipment Insurance

Can provide protection for tools stored on-site, in a van, or in use. Optional overnight cover is often available.

5. Professional Indemnity Insurance

Could be relevant if you provide consultancy, advice or design services that might lead to a claim due to negligence or error.

FAQs

While not all types of contractors insurance are legally required, certain covers may be mandatory:

  • Employers’ liability insurance is a legal requirement for most businesses that employ staff.
  • Public liability insurance may not be legally required but is often contractually or commercially necessary.

Failing to carry the right insurance could lead to contract cancellations or being held personally liable in the event of a claim.

The cost of contractors insurance depends on several factors, including:

  • Your trade or specialism
  • The number of people you employ (if any)
  • The level of cover required
  • Value of tools and equipment
  • Previous claims history

Quotes can vary significantly, so it is often beneficial to compare multiple policies through a broker who understands your industry.

  • Construction & Trades – Builders, plumbers, electricians, decorators
  • Professional Services – Consultants, IT contractors, engineers
  • Specialist Fields – Arborists, scaffolders, HVAC technicians, renewable energy contractors
  • Creative & Media – Photographers, content creators, digital consultants

Using a broker could give you access to:

  • A wider range of providers and products
  • Specialist knowledge for niche or higher-risk trades
  • Flexible cover tailored to your contracts and operations
  • Support in the event of a claim or policy query

As a broker, we work with leading UK insurers to help match you with a suitable contractor insurance policy at a competitive price.

 

START YOUR QUOTE CALL US
OR CALL 0330 054 0545
START YOUR QUOTE OR CALL 0330 054 0545

Helpful Articles & Updates

Explore contractor insurance advice, compliance resources, and tips for managing on-site risks.