Public Liability Insurance Overview
An introductory guide to Public Liability Insurance, its purpose, and who needs it
When you’re working with people—whether you’re a beauty therapist, fitness instructor or holistic practitioner—things can sometimes go wrong.
Unfortunately! A little slip, a spill, or some unexpected damage to someone’s items can turn into a costly legal hassle really fast.
That’s where Public Liability Insurance (PLI) steps in! It’s not just an extra—it’s extremely crucial protection that every business dealing with the public should think about.
What is Public Liability insurance all about?
Public Liability Insurance helps keep your business safe from claims made by either your customers or members of the public. These claims might include:
- If someone gets hurt or sick because of what your business is doing. (like a customer tripping over some equipment at your place)
- That could mean some property damage to a client or someone else's items, like accidentally spilling water on a client's laptop while visiting their site.
- This kind of insurance helps with legal costs, expenses, and any compensation payouts (up to the policy limit, which is the specific amount of coverage like £1 million or £2 million mentioned in your policy schedule when you buy it), keeping your business safe from big financial hits.
Is Public Liability Insurance Right for You?
This policy is for anyone who provides services as stated in their business statement and approved by the insurer. “Business” means:
- If your profession has you interacting with the public or offering services at a client's location, there is a chance you could face claims for bodily injury or property damage. That's why having Public Liability cover can really come in useful!
- If you're giving treatments, consulting, offering hands-on services, or working in a rented space, PLI can really help keep you covered. Although not required for most professions, many clients, venues, and governing bodies require proof of cover before letting you operate or sign a contract.
What’s in Public Liability Insurance?
It's more than you might think.
Public Liability Insurance covers:
1. If your business activities cause any bodily injury or property damage to others, you could be held legally responsible for it.
2. You’ll be covered for defence costs and legal expenses as long as the claim fits within your policy and stays within your coverage limit.
3. Products liability is often also included, which looks at any harm that might come from the products you offer as part of your services.
Plus, the policy comes with extended coverage at no extra charge for:
4. Samaritan acts! It’s all about helping in those emergencies.
5. Costs for representation, like legal fees and court appearance costs.
6. Defeamtaion – If you accidentaly said something you shouldn’t that led to a defemation claim. Westinster may have your back.
These extensions come with some specific conditions and limits, which you can find in the policy schedule.
To sum up, Public Liability Insurance isn’t merely recommended—it is frequently required—if your business has contracts with other organisations or you operate your services from their premises.
What Not Included? Knowing the Gaps
It’s extremely crucial to know what your policy doesn’t cover, similarly to how it’s good to know what it does!
Common exclusions can be claims that come from issues you already knew about that happened before your policy started. Also, any work conducted under contract by the National Health Service (NHS).
Claims from situations involving fraud, criminal acts, or being under the influence during the event. This policy doesn’t cover losses from cyber-attacks, communicable diseases, or asbestos exposure, and it also doesn’t include damage to your own property, equipment, or personal items – for that you’ll need Workplace Contents add on cover.
To keep your coverage, it’s super important to follow the policy’s claims rules, like letting us know right away about any incident or situation that might lead to a claim.
Important Things to Keep in Mind About Claims
Even with the right coverage, it is essential to know how to handle claims the right way. Understanding the timing and notification can really help when things do not go as planned. Here are a few important key points to keep in mind:
- This policy is claims-made, which means you need to report any claims while you're covered.
- There's a retroactive date, so if past services are shared and agreed upon, they might be covered.
- Make sure to let your insurers know about anything that could lead to a claim as soon as you find out about it.
Why Every UK Business Should Consider Public Liability Insurance—Here’s Why It Matters
These clauses really matter because insurance is usually “claims-made”, which means you’re only covered if the claim is made and reported while your policy is active.
With retroactive and continuous cover, you can keep your protection intact, even if an issue popped up now from an incident that happened earlier. Just remember to be honest and stay insured continuously!
If you’re working on your own or leading a team that’s expanding, Public Liability Insurance is more than just a backup plan—it’s a clever choice for your business! When you have the right coverage, you can really dive into what you love, feeling protected against life’s little surprises.
If you’re not quite sure if your current policy is enough, or if you’re just getting started, we’re here for you! Get in touch today for a tailored quote, or a quick policy check-up to ensure you and your business are all set and protected. Talking with us can bring you some peace of mind!
“I wholehearted recommend Westminster Insurance. Efficient, professional, friendly, helpful and offer a highly competitive.”
Instant Insurance Quote
The information provided in this article is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, endorsement, or recommendation of any particular course, treatment, service, or product. Readers should always seek appropriate professional advice and check the latest policy documents and terms before making any decisions or commitments.
Share
Latest Blogs
Claims Process with Public Liability Insurance
Explains the process of making a claim under Public Liability Insurance policy Making a Public Liability Insurance Claim (And Staying Calm) Accidents happen sometimes! A client accidentally trips over a cable in your studio. A visitor accidentally slips on a floor that was just mopped. You know that feeling when everything just seems to drop? […]
by Westminster Insurance
12th June, 2025
Add-Ons and Optional Coverage for Professional Indemnity Insurance
While Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) safeguards against claims of negligence or errors, it doesn’t cover every risk your business might face. This article explores essential add-ons like Cyber Liability, Public Liability, Employers’ Liability, and Workplace Contents Insurance. Tailoring your PII with these options ensures comprehensive protection, keeping your business resilient against a broader range of potential challenges.
by Westminster Insurance
03rd April, 2025
Guide for Tattoo Artists
This guide will dive into the in’s and out’s of setting up a tattoo business in the UK and how to protect it.
by Westminster Insurance
19th May, 2025
Get your free online quote today
Welcome to a different kind of insurance experience for small to medium-sized businesses - from salon owners and business consultants to tattoo artists and yoga instructors.
