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Self-employed builder insurance
Protect your livelihood with cover for site accidents, tool theft and legal claims
Stay compliant and credible and meet legal duties to boost client confidence
Expert support, custom quotes and tailored protection from trusted insurers
Helping businesses with insurance for over 70 years
Finding you the correct cover
Get an online quote in 10 minutes, our experts are here to understand the finer detail.
In-house claims team
Here to guide you through the unfortunate event of a claim.
Variety of cover
We'll work with you to develop a tailored insurance package based on your needs.
Award-winning
Proven broker, we won silver in the Insurance Times award for Commercial Lines Broker Of The Year, 2022.
Search our panel of insurance specialists to find competitive cover
We work with a range of builder insurers from household names to small specialist insurers to find the best policy for your business.
What is self-employed builder insurance?
Self-employed builder insurance offers protection for professionals in the building trade. A tailored insurance plan can safeguard your business against a multitude of risks, including injury claims, property damage, and equipment loss. Just one of these occurring without coverage could be disastrous when self-employed.
With builder insurance, it means you can overcome unforeseen incidents and avoid facing significant financial losses. Whether it’s public liability or equipment insurance, the right cover gives you peace of mind. It allows you to focus on your building projects with confidence.
Why is insurance for self-employed builders important?
- Protects against claims: If a client or third party experiences property damage or injury due to your work, insurance covers legal fees and compensation costs.
- Meets legal requirements: In certain situations, it’s a legal requirement to have insurance as a self-employed builder. For instance, compliance via employers’ liability insurance is necessary when hiring workers.
- Safety measure for equipment: The loss of essential tools and machinery can be expensive, both in terms of their replacement/repair and potential downtime on projects. Insurance minimises the damage caused.
- Boost client trust: Insurance demonstrates professionalism and reliability. It assures clients you’re prepared to handle unexpected events in a responsible manner. The result: there are fewer barriers to securing contracts.
- Mitigates financial risks: Protects your cash flow by covering expenses from claims, accidents, or damages. For self-employed professionals without unlimited money, this can be key in keeping projects on track.
- Personalised risk coverage: With customised policies, you can address the unique risks of your building trade. You gain comprehensive protection personalised to your specific work and business size.
Types of insurance for self-employed builders
Public liability insurance
Has a client’s property been damaged? Maybe they were injured due to your work? Builders’ public liability insurance for self-employed professionals covers legal costs and compensation claims.
Employers' liability insurance
Covering claims from employees injured or ill due to work is a legal requirement when hiring staff. Without it, you could be fined up to £2,500 daily.
Professional indemnity insurance
Do you offer advice as part of your building work? This insurance protects against claims of professional errors or negligence which cause financial loss for clients.
Equipment insurance
If your essential tools and equipment are lost, stolen, or damaged, this insurance stops you from being out of pocket. It covers either repair or replacement costs.
How much does self-employed builders' insurance cost
There are various factors that influence the cost of insurance for self-employed builders. These factors include the type of coverage required, the size of your business, and the level of risk involved in your work. As an example, simply sticking with public liability insurance will likely be more affordable than comprehensive policies, including equipment and professional indemnity cover.
The most affordable insurance for self-employed builders starts from £140 per year. However, this can multiply significantly if you have, for instance, multiple employees and use expensive equipment.
Getting the right self-employed builder insurance
Finding the perfect building insurance policy, one that’s both affordable and includes the necessary coverage can feel overwhelming. Radius makes it straightforward. With access to a panel of 120 insurers, we gain personalised quotes to suit your needs. Our team of experts, complete with 70+ years of industry experience, perform an in-depth assessment of your business risks to find the right cover.
With Radius’ support, you can safeguard your building business – and your livelihood. With customised, reliable protection, we get you the insurance needed to focus on your projects with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
Can’t find an answer to your question? Talk to the Radius customer support team on 0333 070 5876. We’re here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have.
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Radius Business Solutions (UK), a trading name of UK Fuels Limited, Radius Insurance Solutions Limited and Milestone Insurance Consultants Limited are owned by Radius Limited, with registered company number 08260702. Registered address: Eurocard Centre, Herald Park, Herald Drive, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6EG. Radius Insurance Solutions Limited is a registered company (number 3668469 and FCA reference number 300425). Radius Insurance Solutions is a trading style of Milestone Insurance Consultants Limited (registered company number 04587285 and FCA reference number 307191). Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.