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Is Your Porch Erection Business Covered? Understanding Public Liability Insurance

Rhino Trade Insurance 03 July 2024

Your porch erection company is a testament to your skill and commitment to the busy world of trades. Your work enhances the value, appeal, and use of properties around the country, whether you're building a sleek modern entryway or an exquisite Victorian-style porch. 

However, there are hazards and responsibilities associated with the porch installation business, just like any other trade. In this situation, Public Liability Insurance is extremely useful. Today, we'll discuss the significance of Public Liability Insurance for your porch installation business, along with how this cover protects you from unexpected events!

What is Public Liability Insurance?

Public Liability Insurance is a type of insurance designed to protect trade business owners if they are found legally liable for injury or damage to third parties or their property. For tradesmen and women, this means coverage against the potential financial fallout from accidents or mishaps that might occur while you're on the job - whether it's building a porch or renovating a property, it will cover you.

Why is Public Liability Insurance Important for Porch Erection Businesses?

Porch erection, like many trades, involves working with various materials/ tools and in potentially hazardous situations. From handling heavy beams to working at heights, the risks are ever-present. Here are several reasons why Public Liability Insurance is crucial for your trade business:

Protection Against Legal Claims: Even with the utmost care and professionalism, accidents can happen. If a passerby trips over your tools/ equipment or if a structural element falls and injures someone, you could face legal claims. Public Liability Insurance covers legal fees and compensation costs for which the policyholder is held liable.

Damage to Client Property: During porch construction, there's always the potential for accidental damage to a customer's home or property. Whether it's a scratched driveway or damaged garden, your trade insurance can cover the costs of repairs or replacements meaning you don't have to pay out of your own pocket.

Client Confidence: Having Public Liability Insurance demonstrates to your clients that you are a responsible and professional trade business owner. It reassures them that if anything goes wrong on-site, you have the means to address the issue promptly and effectively.

Contract Requirements: Many clients and contractors (especially those in a commercial or local government setting) require proof of your Public Liability Insurance before they allow any work to commence with you. Without it, you might miss out on valuable jobs/ contracts and opportunities to broaden your horizons.

What Does Public Liability Insurance Cover?

Public Liability Insurance typically covers:

  • Injury to Third Parties: If someone is injured as a result of what your business is working on, your trade insurance kicks into gear and covers any expenses, legal fees, and compensation costs.
  • Damage to Third-Party Property: If your work results in damage to someone's property (be it their home or contents), your trade insurance will be there to cover the cost of repairs or replacements.
  • Legal Expenses: If the worst happens and you end up being taken to court, the costs associated with defending your legal claim, including any solicitor's fees and court costs, will be covered.

Real-World Examples of Public Liability Insurance in Action

To better understand how Public Liability Insurance can protect your porch erection business, let's look at a few hypothetical scenarios:

Scenario 1: The Falling Beam

You and your team are installing a new porch. Despite all safety measures being in place, a beam accidentally slips and falls, hitting a parked car. The car's owner files a claim against your trade business for the damage. Your Public Liability Insurance would cover the repair costs for the vehicle as it was an accident, and your policy has enough coverage to cover the damages.

Scenario 2: The Slippery Surface

While working on a client's property, one of your workers spills some water on the path. A visitor to the property slips on the wet surface and injures themselves. They decide to claim compensation for their injury which without insurance would come out of your pocket. Having Public Liability Insurance with Rhino would handle these costs, protecting your trade business from a significant financial hit.

Scenario 3: The Garden Gaffe

During a porch erection project, heavy equipment accidentally damages a client's newly constructed landscape garden. The client demands compensation for the loss of their plants and landscaping. Your Public Liability Insurance would cover the cost of restoring the garden to its former glory.

How Much Coverage Do You Need?

The amount of coverage you need can vary depending on the size of your trade business and what it entails. Typically, Public Liability Insurance for tradesmen and women ranges from £1 million to £5 million. Here are some factors to consider when determining your coverage needs:

  • Business Size: Larger trade businesses with more employees and higher volumes of work may require more coverage.
  • Project Scale: Bigger building projects with higher stakes might necessitate higher coverage limits.
  • Client Requirements: Some clients, especially commercial ones, may have specific coverage level requirements you must meet to secure their contract.
  • Risk Level: Evaluate the inherent risks associated with your trade and adjust your coverage accordingly.

Additional Tips for Porch Erection Businesses

While Public Liability Insurance is vital, there are additional steps you can take to minimise risks and enhance the safety and success of your business whilst out in the public:

Training and Safety Protocols: Ensure your team is well-trained and follows strict safety protocols. Regularly update training to keep up with industry standards and new safety practices.

Quality Control: Maintain the highest standards of workmanship and regularly inspect your work to catch any potential issues early.

Client Communication: Keep open lines of communication with your clients. Clear and honest discussions about project progress and potential issues can help manage expectations and prevent disputes.

Documentation: Keep detailed records of your projects, including the contracts you sign, communications with suppliers/ customers, and any incidents. This documentation can be very important if you need to make a claim.

Why Choose Rhino For Your Porch Erecting Trade Insurance?

Rhino Trade Insurance stands out as an ideal choice for your porch erecting trade insurance needs. Here's why:

Specialised Coverage for Tradespeople

Rhino Trade Insurance focuses exclusively on providing insurance solutions for tradespeople. We understand the specific risks and challenges that come with trades like porch erection.

Competitive Pricing

Budget considerations are always important for small business owners and tradespeople. We strive to provide value for money, ensuring that you get extensive protection at a price that fits your budget.

Expert Customer Service

Rhino Trade Insurance prides itself on its exceptional customer service. Our team of expert trade brokers is readily available to answer questions, provide guidance, and help you through the claims process.

Claims Support and Assistance

Rhino offers robust support to ensure that the process of claiming is as smooth and efficient as possible. Our dedicated claims team works diligently to handle claims quickly and fairly, minimising disruption to your business operations.

Flexibility and Customisation

No two porch erection businesses are the same. Whether you work alone or have a team, whether you focus on small residential projects or larger commercial ones, Rhino can tailor our insurance solutions to suit your needs.

Get Your Porch Business Protected With Rhino Today

Running a porch erection business in the UK is both rewarding and challenging. The craftsmanship and skill you bring to each project add value to homes and communities. 

However, with the inherent risks of the trade, having the right protection is essential. Public Liability Insurance is not just a legal safeguard; it's a testament to your professionalism and commitment to your clients. Get your cover sorted today with Rhino - 0116 243 7904


About The Author Phil McCormick

Experienced in brand marketing and content. Most of that lovely communication you see online will be from Phil. social media, emails, videos, how to make a bacon sarny? You get the gist!

Trade most identified with: Electrician - It’s our Phil’s job to map out all our communications and make sure the signal works! Also, he’s one of the cockiest blighters in the team so electrician fits perfectly!

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