Businesses must take out liability insurance, under the Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Regulations 1998. Many businesses also take out public liability insurance. This will protect the business if it is held legally liable for personal injury or damage to property. If your business carries out work in places other than its own premises, the policy should apply to work off-site, as well as on-site.

Public liability insurance covers claims made against the business, if the business's owners, directors or employees are shown to be responsible. The insurance will also include cover for any legal costs associated with defending claims against the business. Premiums will depend on the type of business, turnover and number of employees. If you regularly work from home, you might need to extend your policy, to be fully covered.

Public liability cover can also be extended to include claims arising out of defective products or design. However, it does not cover you for any claims made against the business for negligent advice. For this cover, you would need a separate professional indemnity policy.

Our Corporate Team can unravel the intricacies involved in arranged your public and professional insurances.