What public liability covers
Public liability (PL) insurance covers claims if your business activities injure a member of the public or damage their property — and the legal costs of defending such claims. It's not legally required, but it's essential for most businesses that interact with the public or clients, and often demanded by contracts.
1. PL for trades and contractors
Builders, electricians, plumbers and other trades work on others' property where accidents can happen. Best — often essential — for trades; many clients and sites won't let you work without it.
2. PL for shops, offices and premises
Any business the public visits faces slip, trip and injury claims. Best for retail, hospitality and premises-based businesses — usually part of a combined policy.
3. PL for events and mobile businesses
Market traders, event organisers and mobile services need cover wherever they operate. Best for businesses working at multiple or temporary locations.
4. Choosing the right cover level
Cover commonly ranges from £1m to £10m. The right level depends on your work and what clients or venues require. Best set to meet contract demands and your risk — larger contracts and public venues often require higher limits.
How much cover do you need?
- Check what clients, sites or venues require (often £5m+)
- Consider the potential severity of an injury or damage claim
- Include legal defence costs
- Bundle with other cover (e.g. employers' liability) if relevant
How to find the best public liability cover
A specialist broker can match PL cover and limits to your trade and contract requirements at the best price. Find a business insurance specialist through Nesto — free, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Who needs public liability insurance?
Most businesses that interact with the public or clients, or work on others' property — especially trades, shops and event businesses. It's often required by contracts.
Is public liability insurance a legal requirement?
Not by law, but it's essential for most customer-facing businesses and frequently demanded by clients, sites and venues.
How much cover do I need?
Commonly £1m–£10m. The right level depends on your work and what clients or venues require — many demand £5m or more.
What's the difference between public and employers' liability?
Public liability covers claims from the public or clients; employers' liability (legally required if you employ staff) covers claims from employees.
Does it cover legal costs?
Yes — public liability typically covers the legal costs of defending claims as well as any compensation.