What is employers’ liability insurance

Employers’ liability insurance protects you if a member of staff is injured or becomes ill because of the work they do for you. It steps in to cover compensation and legal costs, which could otherwise be eye-watering.

As soon as you hire an employee, the law requires you to have this insurance. It must provide at least £5 million cover and come from an authorised insurer. This ensures your workers are protected and your business is covered if something goes wrong.

Whether it’s a construction worker injured on a scaffolding site or a personal trainer injured by faulty gym equipment, this cover helps pay for claims and legal fees. Even after someone leaves, a claim can pop up years later, so having the right cover from day one helps you stay protected long after the shift ends.

Page updated on 6th November 2025, Reviewed by Richard Groom