Employers’ Liability • UK businesses • Plain English

Employers’ Liability Insurance, made clear.

Employers’ liability insurance is designed to help protect your business if an employee is injured or becomes ill because of work. In many UK situations, it’s required when you employ staff — and you may need to keep proof of cover available.

Quick “do I need it?” guidance Clear examples & scenarios We may introduce you to regulated partners

What is employers’ liability insurance?

Employers’ liability insurance is designed to help with claims if an employee is injured or becomes ill as a result of work. It can help with legal defence costs and compensation (subject to your policy terms, limits and exclusions).

What it’s for

Employee claims

Designed for workplace injuries and illness allegations connected to employment — from on-site incidents to manual handling claims.

Why it matters

Risk control

If you employ people, one accident can turn into a costly claim. Employers’ liability is designed to handle the legal and compensation side.

Proof of cover

Certificate

Many businesses keep proof of cover available (often a certificate). Sites, clients or contractors may ask to see it.

Employees working together in an office
Simple rule of thumb: if someone works for you and you direct how/when they work, employers’ liability may apply. If you’re unsure, you can still request a quote and a partner can help clarify your setup.

What does employers’ liability insurance cover?

Policies vary, but employers’ liability insurance commonly helps with costs if an employee claims they were harmed because of their work.

Common claim scenarios

Examples
  • Accidents and injuries at work (slips, falls, tool-related incidents)
  • Manual handling claims (lifting, repetitive strain)
  • Work-related illness allegations (case-by-case and policy dependent)
  • Legal defence costs and compensation (subject to terms)

What it’s not designed for

Avoid confusion

Employers’ liability is different from:

Do I need employers’ liability insurance?

It depends on how people work for you. Here’s a practical way to think about it.

You have employees

Often needed

If you pay staff (full-time, part-time, temporary), employers’ liability is commonly required. If you’re hiring, sort this early.

You use subcontractors

Depends

The detail is often whether they’re labour-only or operating as an independent business. If you’re unsure, mention it when you request quotes.

You’re a sole trader

Often not

If it’s just you (no employees), employers’ liability may not apply. If you bring anyone in — even casually — review it.

Business meeting — employers’ liability insurance context
Employers’ liability is often paired with public liability if you also work around customers or the public. You can request a quote for the right combination in one go.

Not sure if this applies to you?

Submit one simple request and, where appropriate, we may introduce you to a regulated partner who can clarify what you need and provide quotes.

FAQs

Quick answers to common questions.

Is employers’ liability insurance required in the UK? +
In many UK situations, employers’ liability is required if you employ staff. If you’re unsure how it applies to your setup, you can request a quote and a partner can help confirm what’s needed.
Does it cover subcontractors? +
Sometimes — it depends on how the worker is engaged and the policy terms. If subcontractors are part of your model, mention this when requesting quotes so the cover is arranged correctly.
Is employers’ liability the same as public liability? +
No. Employers’ liability is for employee claims. Public liability is for claims from third parties (customers, members of the public). See Public Liability.
What information will I need for a quote? +
Usually: your trade/business type, employee numbers, postcode, and basic details about how you work (sites, subcontractors, special requirements).

Get employers’ liability quotes

Complete the form below. By clicking submit, you agree to be contacted by one of our partners regarding your quote.

Related covers

Many UK businesses combine employers’ liability with other covers depending on how they work.

Public Liability

Third parties

For claims from members of the public (injury or property damage) connected to your work.

Professional Indemnity

Advice

For claims that your advice, design, or professional services caused financial loss.

Get in Touch