Business insurance is a set of policies for different losses and liabilities, rather than one policy that protects every part of a business. Start with the work actually performed, the people involved, the assets at risk and the contracts signed.
The distinction that matters
Public liability, professional indemnity, workers compensation and property insurance address different exposures. A certificate or broad product name cannot establish that every activity, contractor or contract is covered.
What to check
- List revenue-generating activities and work you subcontract.
- Identify employees, locations, vehicles, stock and tools.
- Read client and lease insurance requirements before agreeing to them.
- Compare limits, excesses, exclusions and claims conditions on the same basis.
Example to discuss
A builder that also designs projects needs to discuss both construction activities and design advice. An accountant operating payroll needs to discuss professional services, client data and payment authority rather than borrowing a builder’s checklist.
This is a hypothetical comparison, not a customer claim or a determination of cover.
Start with the work you do
Compare the activity questions for builders, electricians, plumbers and accountants. Each identifies different activities to declare, exclusions to query and documents to prepare. A referral is an introduction for assessment, not a promise that an insurer will accept the risk.
Sources and further reading
General information only. The policy, schedule and applicable rules determine the actual position. For a personal decision, use an appropriately qualified adviser or the relevant provider.