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Public Liability Insurance for Electricians: Compare the Best Options in 2025

ScrewHero Podcast: Public Liability Insurance for Builders in the UK

This article from screwhero.com is a guide to public liability insurance for builders in the UK. It explains the importance of this insurance for financial protection and meeting client requirements, details coverage examples and costs, and compares several leading providers like AXA UK and Tradesman Saver.

The article also discusses other relevant insurance types, such as employers’ liability and tools insurance, and offers advice on choosing the right policy. Finally, it emphasizes the crucial role of public liability insurance in building a successful and secure business.

As an electrician, you know the risks involved in your daily work. From property damage to accidental injuries, the nature of your trade means that even the smallest oversight could lead to significant financial consequences. That’s where public liability insurance for electricians comes in—it’s your safety net, protecting you against claims and ensuring your business stays on solid ground.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain why public liability insurance is essential, compare the top providers for electricians in the UK for 2025, and answer common questions to help you choose the right coverage.


Electrician, Client, and Insurance Interaction diagram

What is Public Liability Insurance for Electricians?

Public liability insurance is a form of business insurance that protects electricians from claims made by third parties. It covers compensation costs, legal fees, and repair expenses arising from accidental property damage or injury caused during your work.

What Does It Cover?

  • Property Damage: For example, drilling through a wall and damaging a water pipe or electrical wiring.
  • Injury Claims: A client or passer-by trips over your equipment and gets injured.
  • Legal Costs: Covers solicitor fees and court costs if a claim goes to trial.

While public liability insurance isn’t a legal requirement in the UK, it’s often mandatory for certain contracts, especially in commercial projects.

For additional guidance on trades insurance, check out our guide on Public Liability Insurance for Builders.


Why Electricians Need Public Liability Insurance

1. Financial Protection

Accidents, even minor ones, can result in significant claims. The average third-party injury or property damage claim in the UK can exceed £13,000. Without insurance, this could be a crippling cost for your business.

2. Client Requirements

Public liability insurance is often required to secure contracts, particularly for large-scale or commercial projects. Clients want to ensure they’re protected if something goes wrong.

3. Professional Reputation

Having insurance demonstrates professionalism and responsibility. Displaying proof of insurance can instill confidence in clients and set you apart from competitors.

Real-World Example:

Imagine you’re rewiring a client’s property and accidentally cause a small electrical fire that damages their kitchen appliances. Without insurance, you’d need to cover the repair and replacement costs, which could run into thousands of pounds.


Comparison of Public Liability Insurance Providers for Electricians (2025)

To help you find the best coverage, we’ve compared top UK providers based on their offerings, costs, and features.

ProviderCoverage LimitKey FeaturesStarting Cost (Per Year)Best For
Tradesman Saver£1 million to £10 millionIncludes free financial loss cover, optional tool insurance, tailored for electricians.From £53.76Flexible, comprehensive coverage.
AXA UK£1 million to £10 millionCovers employers’ liability, business interruption, and optional contract works insurance.From £64Affordable policies for small businesses.
Simply Business£1 million to £10 millionCompare policies from multiple insurers, customisable options for specific needs.Varies by providerEasy policy comparison.
Hiscox UK£2 million to £10 millionHigh-value claims, tailored policies, includes employers’ liability as standard.From £66High-risk or large-scale projects.
Direct Line for Business£1 million to £10 millionIncludes flexible monthly payment plans and optional tool insurance.From £180Budget-friendly policies with add-ons.

Additional Insurance Options for Electricians

While public liability insurance is essential, additional coverages can provide extra protection and peace of mind.

1. Tools and Equipment Insurance

Covers the theft or damage of your tools, whether stored in your van, on-site, or at home. This is crucial for electricians, as tools are often targeted by thieves.

2. Employers’ Liability Insurance

Mandatory if you employ staff, this insurance protects against claims made by employees who are injured or fall ill due to work conditions.

3. Professional Indemnity Insurance

If you provide design or advisory services, this insurance covers claims related to errors or negligence in your advice.

Public Liability Insurance for Electricians diagram

4. Contract Works Insurance

Protects ongoing projects from damage, such as vandalism or fire, ensuring you don’t have to start over at your own expense.


FAQs About Public Liability Insurance for Electricians

Do electricians legally need public liability insurance?

No, it’s not a legal requirement. However, it’s strongly recommended for financial protection and is often necessary for contracts.

What factors affect the cost of public liability insurance?

  • Business Size: Larger businesses with higher turnover generally pay more.
  • Project Risk Level: High-risk projects or working in hazardous environments can increase premiums.
  • Coverage Limit: Higher coverage limits lead to higher premiums.
  • Location: Urban areas with higher claims history may have increased costs.

How much does public liability insurance cost?

Costs typically range between £120 and £500 per year, depending on the coverage level and provider.

Can I deduct public liability insurance as a business expense?

Yes, public liability insurance is considered a business expense and can be deducted when calculating taxable profits.


How to Choose the Right Public Liability Insurance for Electricians

1. Assess Your Risks

Consider the size and scope of your projects. For electricians working on commercial sites, higher coverage limits (e.g., £5 million or more) may be necessary.

2. Compare Providers

Look for policies that provide value for money and include relevant add-ons, like tools insurance or financial loss protection.

3. Read the Fine Print

Ensure there are no exclusions that could leave you vulnerable, such as limitations on high-risk work or specific property damage clauses.

4. Check Reviews

Evaluate customer reviews to find providers known for excellent claims handling and customer service.


Conclusion: Protect Your Business with Public Liability Insurance

As an electrician, public liability insurance is more than just a policy—it’s your safeguard against unexpected claims and a key to building trust with clients. Whether you’re working on residential rewires or large commercial projects, having the right coverage ensures your business is protected.

Take the time to assess your needs, compare providers like AXA UK, Tradesman Saver, and Hiscox, and secure a policy that suits your business. For more insights into trades insurance, explore our guide on Public Liability Insurance for Builders.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—get the coverage you need today and focus on what you do best: delivering exceptional electrical services.

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