Why Do Construction Firms Need Public Liability Insurance?

Why Do Construction Firms Need Public Liability Insurance?

No matter what kind of business you own in the UK, you are at risk of claims from the public. Whether it’s trips and falls or more serious injuries, there are many things that can lead to a costly legal battle. For those who work in construction and the trades, the risk is higher. In addition to following strict health and safety rules, construction firms should also look for public liability insurance to cover them while they’re working, and here are some reasons why.

Why do construction firms need cover?

There are many reasons why those in trades such as construction need cover:

·        They often visit client sites

·        Work is often carried out in public areas

·        There’s a higher risk of serious accidents

·        They use risky items such as tools and chemicals

While firms are always careful to keep people safe, by following guidelines from health and safety, accidents do happen. This is why builders’ insurance and other products are so important. It means that, should a member of the public be injured, the cost of your claim will be covered.

Injury claims are on the rise

In the last few years, personal injury claims have been on the rise, whether it’s from trips and falls or whiplash. You can’t turn on the TV without seeing lots of adverts from legal firms, urging people to sue for their injuries. That’s why construction insurance is so essential for any firms that work around people, whether it’s in their homes or when they’re out and about. It just makes good sense to protect yourself and means you can sleep better at night knowing that your firm is covered.

Reassure your clients

Those who work in trades, from plumbers to tree surgeons to builders, will know how competitive it is for small businesses. When people hire your firm, they want to know they’re dealing with professionals who can keep them safe. That’s why it’s important to have contractors’ insurance, as it reassures people that you’re not just an amateur operation, but a properly licenced and protected firm.

Working for larger clients

If you’re aiming to work with business clients, then public liability insurance is often a term of your contract. When you work on-site, business clients need to know that you are covered, and you will often have to provide copies of your insurance documents. Therefore, all tradespeople who plan to work with a variety of clients should ensure that they have the right insurance when they set up shop.

Which trades need cover?

The list of tradespeople that need cover is too long to list, but if you do any kind of work in public or clients homes, you should be included. From construction to demolition, tree surgeons, electricians and plumbers, there are many trades that need the protection of this sort of insurance.

For public liability insurance and much more, simply call OnSite Insurance on 01902 324 194. You can also contact us via e-mail on customerservice@onsiteinsurance.co.uk, or fill in our online quote page and we’ll get back to you.