Insurance for Tradespeople

Tradespeople working on client premises face a distinct set of risks: third-party injury, accidental property damage, tools theft, and liability arising from the work carried out. A standard business insurance policy is rarely sufficient. Specialist tradesman insurance is structured around the specific activities, tools, and liability exposures of each trade.

Tradesman Insurance

Tradesman insurance is the core policy for self-employed tradespeople and small contracting businesses. It typically combines public liability, tools and equipment cover, and van insurance in a single arrangement. The level of public liability required varies by trade and client — many commercial clients and main contractors require a minimum of £5 million.

Electricians Insurance

Electrical work carries elevated liability risk due to the potential for fire, electrocution, and property damage. Electricians insurance should include public liability with a minimum £2 million limit, tools cover, and professional indemnity where design or specification work is undertaken. JIB-registered electricians should confirm their policy meets scheme requirements.

Plumbers Insurance

Water damage claims are among the most costly in the trades sector. Plumbers insurance must include cover for damage to third-party property caused by water escape or accidental damage during works. Gas Safe registered engineers should confirm their policy covers gas work specifically, as some standard policies exclude it.

Builders Insurance

Building contractors face liability exposure across the full construction process — from groundworks to finishing. Builders insurance typically includes public liability, contract works cover (protecting work in progress against damage), plant and equipment, and employers' liability for any subcontractors or employees on site.

Roofers Insurance

Roofing is classified as a high-risk trade by most insurers due to working at height and the use of hot works. Roofers insurance requires specialist underwriting and typically includes a hot works exclusion unless specific precautions are confirmed. Roofers should declare all hot works activities at inception to avoid coverage gaps at claim.

Carpenters & Joiners Insurance

Carpenters and joiners insurance covers the liability and tools risks associated with woodworking and joinery. Bespoke joinery businesses that supply fitted furniture or kitchens may also require product liability cover for items supplied and installed at client premises.

Other Specialist Trades

Focus Insurance also arranges cover for painters and decorators, groundworkers, scaffolders, window fitters, tilers, plasterers, locksmiths, and other specialist contractors. Each policy is tailored to the specific activities and risk profile of the trade.

Liability Insurance for Tradespeople

Public liability insurance is the most important cover for any tradesperson working on client premises. It protects against claims for third-party injury or property damage caused during the course of your work. If you employ any staff — including apprentices or casual labour — employers' liability insurance is a legal requirement with a minimum limit of £5 million.

Fitness & Leisure Businesses

Tradespeople and contractors who work in fitness and leisure environments — including gym fit-outs, leisure centre maintenance, and equipment installation — should ensure their policy covers work carried out in these settings. Gyms and leisure venues present elevated public liability risks due to high footfall and physical activity. Focus Insurance also arranges specialist cover for gym and fitness facility operators and leisure and entertainment venues. If you operate a gym or leisure venue in addition to providing trade services, our team can discuss a combined arrangement that covers both activities.

Focus Insurance Services is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA No. 717691). All cover is subject to underwriting acceptance and policy terms and conditions. This guide is for general information only and does not constitute advice.