Cover comparison · 2026
Business Public Liability vs Professional Indemnity
Business Public Liability and Professional Indemnity are often confused because they sit close together — but they protect against different things. This side-by-side shows exactly what each covers, what it excludes, the typical UK cost, and how to decide which one (or both) you actually need.
At a glance
Business Public Liability
Public liability insurance protects your business against claims from members of the public for injury or property damage caused by your business activities.
Typical UK premium: £80–£800/yr
Available in: United Kingdom, Ireland
Professional Indemnity
Protects professionals and businesses against claims for financial loss suffered by clients as a result of negligent advice, errors, or omissions.
Typical UK premium: £150–£2,000/yr
Available in: United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany
What each policy covers
| Business Public Liability | Professional Indemnity |
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What each policy excludes
| Business Public Liability | Professional Indemnity |
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Choose Business Public Liability if…
- You need to protect against: third-party bodily injury claims.
- You need to protect against: third-party property damage claims.
- You need to protect against: legal defence costs.
- Your budget for this risk is around £80–£800/yr.
Choose Professional Indemnity if…
- You need to protect against: claims for professional negligence.
- You need to protect against: breach of duty claims.
- You need to protect against: defamation and intellectual property infringement.
- Your budget for this risk is around £150–£2,000/yr.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Business Public Liability and Professional Indemnity?
Business Public Liability: Public liability insurance protects your business against claims from members of the public for injury or property damage caused by your business activities. Professional Indemnity: Protects professionals and businesses against claims for financial loss suffered by clients as a result of negligent advice, errors, or omissions. They protect against different events, so many people hold one, the other, or both depending on their circumstances.
Is Business Public Liability or Professional Indemnity more expensive?
Typical UK annual premiums run £80–£800/yr for Business Public Liability and £150–£2,000/yr for Professional Indemnity. Your actual price depends on your circumstances and chosen cover level — always get a live quote before deciding.
Do I need both Business Public Liability and Professional Indemnity?
Not always. Because business public liability and professional indemnity cover different risks, holding both gives the broadest protection, but many people only need one. Compare what each covers below and pick the cover that matches your actual exposure.
Do I need public liability insurance as a sole trader?
Public liability insurance is not legally required for sole traders in the UK, but many clients and venues require proof of cover before allowing you to work on-site. Cover from £80/year is inexpensive relative to the risk.
Who needs professional indemnity insurance?
Any business that provides professional advice or services — consultants, architects, accountants, IT professionals, designers, and therapists. Many professional bodies (FCA, RICS, Law Society) require it as a condition of membership.
Compare real quotes for both
GeraSure shows FCA-regulated insurers side by side so you only pay for the cover you need.
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GeraSure is a comparison and referral service. Insurance products are provided by FCA-authorised or equivalent regulated insurers in each jurisdiction. GeraSure does not underwrite insurance policies and does not provide financial advice. Always read the policy wording before purchasing.