If you are a tradie, then it is important to have the right insurance in place. The right insurance policy will not only protect you but also your business, in the case of an accident or injury. Within this guide, we will discuss the different types of insurance policies available for tradies and answer common questions about tradie insurance to help you make an informed decision regarding the best policy for your business.
What Is Business Insurance For Tradies?
Business insurance for tradies refers to insurance policies that cover the risks associated with working as a tradesperson or contractor. This includes damage to property, injury, and even illness. One of the primary policies that a tradesperson should have is public liability insurance. This type of insurance offers protection in case a third party sustains injuries or damage to their property as a result of your negligence while working.
What Types Of Insurance Do Tradies Need?
Tradies need a wide variety of policies to keep their business free from lawsuits and claims. Depending on your line of work and the specific risks involved, you may only need public liability insurance along with accident and illness insurance. Other higher-risk trades such as construction, might need contract works and commercial vehicle insurance as well.
So what types of insurance are available to keep a high-risk trade business and its employees safe?
Public Liability Insurance:
Public liability insurance covers third-party bodily injury or property damage that arises from your negligence while providing a service. This type of policy typically includes coverage for legal defense costs if you are sued by an injured person, as well as medical expenses incurred by them due to the incident.
Accident and Illness Insurance:
Accident and illness insurance keeps both you and your employees safe by covering those injured at work, regardless of fault. It also protects employers from potential lawsuits from not only an employee being injured but also if they develop an illness while carrying out their duties. This type of insurance provides benefits such as medical costs, lost wages, and rehabilitation expenses for the injured employee.
Professional Indemnity Insurance:
Professional indemnity insurance protects a business from claims made by clients if they suffer a financial loss due to mistakes or negligence on the part of the business or its employees. It can help cover legal expenses in case you are sued, and it may also provide compensation for damages that have been awarded in court.
Commercial Motor Insurance:
Whether you have a fleet of vehicles or just a work van, it’s important to have adequate coverage with a motor vehicle insurance policy. This cover provides financial protection against losses caused by accidents or theft, as well as any medical bills for an employee injured while driving your work vehicle.
Tools and Equipment Insurance:
This type of policy offers financial protection if your tools and equipment sustain damage, loss, or theft. It also covers the cost of repairs needed due to wear-and-tear or accidental breakage.
Contract Works Insurance:
Contract works insurance is essential for tradies in the construction industry. Whether you take on multiple construction projects or annual projects, this cover keeps you from financial ruin if a major event such as flooding occurred. This cover keeps your business from outlaying the cost of materials and labour to finish a project where major damage has occurred, while also covering you for any expedited expenses required to finish the project.
Why You Need Insurance
Insurance is an absolute necessity for tradies, especially those who undertake contract work or are self-employed. It offers financial protection for accidents, injuries, or client disputes, ensuring that you receive compensation for any on-site mishaps. The right insurance policy can also provide peace of mind knowing that you’re covered if something unexpected happens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does tradies insurance cost?
A: The cost of insurance for tradies varies widely and depends on many factors such as the type of trade, the amount of coverage required, and the insurer chosen. Generally speaking, premiums tend to increase with higher levels of coverage or riskier trades (e.g. roofers).
Q: What types of risks does tradies insurance cover?
A: Tradies insurance covers various potential risks, including property damage, bodily injury, legal liability, and more. Insurance providers can customise more specific coverage to meet the particular needs of individual trades. For instance, plumbers may require protection against water damage, while electricians may need coverage against fire or electrical shock. An insurance broker can assist with tailoring a policy that meets your trade’s precise requirements.
Q: Are there any other benefits of having insurance for tradies?
A: Yes! Having adequate insurance coverage provides peace of mind knowing that you are protected in case something unexpected happens. It also provides clients with the assurance that the work is being done safely and properly, which can lead to increased customer satisfaction and more repeat business.
Conclusion
Investing in the right policy for your business can keep you from financial ruin if the unexpected were to happen. That’s why it’s important to ensure your policy protects you from any possible lawsuits but also keeps you financially protected if your business was to suddenly halt due to an accident or major event.
If you’re worried that your premiums are too high or you aren’t covered for everything your business needs, contact us today for a free quote.
