Written by Michael Foote, Insurance Expert
Why Going Solo Still Carries Risk
You might be self-employed and working alone, but that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook when something goes wrong. Even without staff or a large business setup, you still face risks every day on the job.
From damaging a customer’s property to losing your tools or suffering an injury, the right insurance protects you from costs that could otherwise shut you down.
Public Liability Isn’t Just for Teams
Public liability insurance is just as important for sole traders. If you drop something that breaks a window, leave materials lying around that someone trips over, or accidentally drill into a pipe, you could be held responsible.
This cover helps pay for legal costs, repairs, and any compensation awarded to third parties.
Tool Cover Helps You Stay in Business
If your van is broken into overnight or your tools go missing from a job site, could you still work the next day? Tool insurance gives you the ability to quickly replace stolen or damaged gear so you can keep earning without delay.
Some insurers even offer overnight tool cover or agreed value limits based on what you use. The broker we work with also has access to specialist schemes whereby tools cover is included on tradesmen policies.
What If You’re Injured and Can’t Work?
As a one-man band, you rely on yourself to bring in income. If you’re injured and can’t work, your earnings could stop completely.
Adding personal accident cover to your tradesmen insurance can provide a financial safety net while you recover.
Tailored Cover That Matches How You Work
The good news is that insurers recognise how many tradesmen work solo. You can often create a policy that includes only what you need, with no unnecessary extras. That means lower cost but still full protection.
Compare tailored quotes today on our Tradesmen Insurance page.