UK-wide

Business insurance types quick reference

Quick-lookup reference of common business insurance types, showing which are legally required, recommended, or optional. Use this to identify gaps in your cover.

Guide summary

Check if you employ anyone or use vehicles for business – you must have Employers’ Liability insurance (minimum £5 million cover) and Business Motor Insurance. If you are a regulated professional (solicitor, financial adviser, architect), check your regulator’s rules for Professional Indemnity. Other covers like Public Liability are often required by clients but not by law.

  • Get Employers’ Liability insurance if you have any staff – £2,500 fine per day without it
  • Insure any vehicle used for business – driving uninsured is a criminal offence
  • Check your professional regulator for Professional Indemnity if you give regulated advice
  • Ask clients if they require Public Liability insurance – most do
  • Consider Products Liability if you sell or make physical goods
  • Protect business assets with Contents insurance for theft or fire
  • Look at Cyber Insurance if you handle customer data or use computers
  • Keep Employers’ Liability certificates for 40 years – claims can come decades later
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Use this table to identify which insurance types apply to your business. Mandatory insurance is a legal requirement; operating without it is a criminal offence.

Insurance type Legal status What it covers Who needs it Typical cover level

For guidance on choosing and purchasing cover, see Get business insurance.

Official sources