Tradesmen insurance

Tradesmen Insurance

Insurance for UK tradespeople and small contractors, with liability, tools, materials and contract work considered around declared activities.

Request a quote 0330 133 4386

Start with the exposure

Understand the exposure before comparing terms.

The right cover depends on the trade, the size and location of jobs, the use of subcontractors and whether you design or advise as part of the work. We use those details to shape an appropriate submission.

OAK VIEW

A precise description of each trade and labour arrangement helps avoid relying on a policy that was rated for different work.

Cover to consider

Built from the risk outwards.

Availability and scope depend on insurer acceptance and the terms offered for your business.

Public and employers' liability

Cover can be considered for covered injury or property damage allegations arising from your declared trade and workforce.

Tools, materials and plant

Tools, stock and equipment may need separate limits and clear information about storage, vehicles and job-site security.

Contract works and professional duties

Work in progress and professional indemnity may be relevant where contracts, design or advice create additional exposures.

Practical buying guidance

A small firm still needs an accurate description of its work

A self-employed trade can work alone, employ an apprentice, use labour-only help or take on a larger project. Those arrangements can affect the cover needed. Explain the workforce and working methods rather than selecting a policy only by the trade name.

Tools kept in a vehicle, hired plant and materials at a customer's site may have different limits and security conditions. Ask how overnight storage, unattended vehicles and work away from the declared premises are treated.

Public liability concerns specified third-party injury or property damage allegations. It does not necessarily cover the cost of redoing defective work, replacing a failed component or paying a contractual penalty. Check the wording and discuss design or advice responsibilities separately.

Compare the wording, not just the premium

Check height, depth and heat restrictions, tool theft conditions, excesses and the activities declared. A cheaper policy can be unsuitable if a regular task is excluded.

Common questions

Useful answers before you approach the market.

Are tools automatically insured in a van?+

Not always. Vehicle storage, overnight location, security devices, tool value and policy limits can all affect cover.

Do I need employers' liability as a sole trader?+

It depends on whether you employ staff and the legal status of people working for you. Insurers need the labour arrangements declared.

What if my work changes?+

Tell your broker about new trades, larger contracts or changed subcontracting before the work begins so cover can be reviewed.

Speak directly to Oak

Talk to Oak about tradesmen insurance.

Tell us what you do, what needs protecting and when the policy renews. We'll take it from there.

Start an enquiry 0330 133 4386