Liability insurance for your business

Think about taking out public liability (PL) insurance if members of the public or customers come to your premises or you go to their premises (including if you work from home).

What public liability insurance covers

PL insurance covers any awards of damages given to a member of the public because of an injury or damage to their property caused by you or your business. It also covers any related:

• legal fees
• costs
• expenses
• hospital treatment, including ambulance costs, that the NHS may claim from you

Premiums are based on the type of business and rated on an estimate for the level of activity of the business. For most businesses this will be the turnover, although other factors may be used.

Talk to a professional

There are many conditions, exclusions and warranties that can be applied to PL policies. It is therefore important that you discuss your policy with your insurance adviser to ensure that it meets your needs. Find a broker with the British Insurance Brokers' Association (BIBA).

It is worthwhile to check if an insurance provider is a member of the Association of British Insurers.

Businesses which must take out PL insurance

Generally speaking, PL insurance is not compulsory, but horse riding businesses must have PL cover.

You will also find that many of your customers or potential customers will want to see proof of adequate insurance cover before they will let you work for them.