Written by Michael Foote, Insurance Expert
Keep Your Details Up to Date
Plumbing work can change fast. You might take on a bigger job, hire a subcontractor, or start using a different type of equipment. It’s easy to forget your plumbers insurance policy still reflects last year’s setup. But if something changes in your business and you don’t tell your insurer, you could be left without cover when it matters. Always update your policy if you move premises, add new staff, take on higher-risk work or change how you store tools and materials.
Review Your Tool Cover Annually
As a plumber, your tools are your livelihood. But most tool insurance policies have set limits and conditions. If you’ve added to your kit over the year, especially with more expensive gear like pipe cutters, thermal imaging cameras or leak detection equipment, make sure your tool cover is still enough. Don’t wait until you have a claim to find out your replacement value is underinsured.
Monitor Your Claims History
Even if you only make small claims, they can add up over time. If you’ve made several tool or public liability claims, it might affect your renewal price or limit your options when switching providers. Some plumbers choose to self-fund very small losses and only claim for major incidents. It’s also worth checking how your current insurer handles claims and if you’re satisfied with their response times and process.
Add and Remove Drivers the Right Way
If you run a small plumbing business and have more than one person using the van, keeping your motor policy updated is essential. Adding or removing drivers mid-policy can cause admin headaches unless you’ve opted for insurance covering multiple drivers, which makes it easier to stay compliant and flexible. This is especially useful if you have short-term help, apprentices or seasonal support.
Set a Renewal Reminder
Many plumbers renew their insurance without thinking twice. But it’s worth reviewing your cover at least a month before your renewal date. Look at what’s changed in your business, whether your insurer has added any exclusions, and if your premium has crept up. Shopping around doesn’t have to take long, and you may find a better deal by comparing with providers that understand tradesmen cover. Our tradesmen insurance expert partners help plumbers renew with confidence and adjust cover to suit how their work has evolved.