Public liability and employers’ liability are both business insurances for injuries and damage, but they protect against different claims. Most businesses need both, and one is a legal requirement.
Public liability
Public liability covers claims from members of the public, such as a customer or passer by, injured or whose property is damaged because of your business. It is not legally required but is often demanded by clients and landlords.
Employers’ liability
Employers’ liability covers claims from your employees for injury or illness caused by their work. It is a legal requirement for almost every business with staff, with limited exceptions, and carries a fixed penalty for non compliance. Our guide to reading your policy shows where the cover sits.
How they work together
Public liability protects people outside the business; employers’ liability protects the people you employ. Both pay compensation and legal costs. Check the limits suit your contracts, and read our explainer on exclusions for what is not covered.