Sole traders often assume public liability insurance is something bigger businesses need. In reality, the lack of legal separation between a sole trader and their business makes this cover arguably more important, not less.
As a sole trader, you and your business are legally the same entity. Any claim brought against your business is, in effect, a claim against you personally, your savings, your home, your personal assets are all potentially exposed without cover in place.
Why clients increasingly ask for it: It is now common for clients, venues, and letting agents to require proof of public liability cover before agreeing to work with a sole trader or freelancer, particularly in trades, events, and anyone working on someone else's property.
A mobile hairdresser accidentally damaging a client's flooring, a gardener's tool causing injury, a market stallholder's display causing a trip. None of these involve staff, so employers' liability does not apply, but all of them are genuine public liability scenarios a sole trader faces regularly.
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See My Cover Options →Legal requirements and contractual obligations vary by trade and client. Always confirm specific contract requirements before starting work.