When do you need Employers’ Liability insurance?

If you employ staff you should take out Employers’ Liability insurance. There are a few exemptions, such as:

• if you are the sole employee of your limited company, and also own at least 50% of the share capital in the company
• if you are a sole trader and do not employ anyone (or you only employ close family members)

However, if you occasionally hire staff or use temps or seasonal workers, you must take out Employers’ Liability Insurance for your business. Employers Liability insurance covers your business if an employee is injured or falls ill whilst at work.

If you think you might need Employers’ Liability insurance for your business and would like to discuss it please get in touch with one of our friendly, experienced and professional advisers by telephoning 020 7241 3232.

• You could save yourself £££s on your Employers' Liability insurance simply by asking us to get a quote on your behalf.
• We'll go to an extensive panel of insurers for you.
• You can call us between 9:00am and 5:00pm Monday to Friday and 9:00am and 1:00pm on Saturdays.
• You can also talk to one of our friendly and professional advisers using the live chat to the left of this page.
• It only takes a few moments to request a quote online and we'll do the hard work for you - we take pride in saving you time and money.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I find out more about Employers' Liability?

You can talk to one of our friendly, experienced and professional advisers by telephoning 020 7241 3232 or by using the live chat feature on the left of the page. All our staff are knowledgeable and helpful.

Alternatively, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides a guide to the Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969, which can be downloaded from the HSE website.

What does Employers' Liability insurance cover?

Employers' Liability insurance will meet the cost of compensation for injuries (or illnesses) sustained by your employees whilst working for your business, whether caused on or off site. Employers' Liability insurance only covers your employees. Potential claims made against you by other third parties (members of the public) can be covered by Public Liability insurance.

If any of your employees are injured in a motoring accident whilst working for your business, claims may be covered separately by your motor insurance policy.

What is an employee?

Generally, someone is defined as your employee if:

• you deduct N.I. contributions and income tax from the salary you pay them
• you control when, where and how they work
• they cannot employ a substitute when they are unavailable to work

What happens if I do not have Employers' Liability insurance for my business and I employ staff?

The HSE has the powers to fine your business up to £2,500 per day if you are not covered properly for this type of insurance.