Operating a small business in London brings opportunity, but also exposure to risk — from public liability and employee claims, to professional errors, property damage and business interruption. Having the best insurance in place is vital for protection, credibility and continuity. At Fraser Bond we help SMEs, landlords, property-service companies and contractors understand how to choose insurance that fits their size, sector and London-specific context.
Small businesses often do not have large financial reserves. A single claim — for example a customer injury, a data breach, or incorrect advice — can threaten operations. Insurance designed for small business helps safeguard against these risks.
According to a UK comparison site, up to 80% of small businesses may be under-insured.
For London-based enterprises – e.g., property maintenance firms, letting agencies, small contractors – exposure is enhanced by high property values, right-to-work obligations, and busy public spaces.
Covers your business if a third-party (member of the public) is injured, or their property is damaged, because of your business activities. Often essential for businesses with client/visitor access or on-site works.
Legally required in the UK if you employ anyone (other than certain family members). Covers employee illness or injury due to work.
For businesses that provide advice, services or consultancy (for example property agents, architects, consultants). Protects against claims of negligence, error or omission.
Covers loss or damage to your business premises, contents, and the income you lose if you cannot trade because of an insured event (fire, flood, theft).
If you handle data, client information or operate online, cyber cover is increasingly relevant. Other specialist covers include product liability, tools insurance and directors’ liability.
Analyse your risk profile – What you do, where you do it, how many employees, how much client interaction? London location may add higher premium risk (higher property values, foot-fall, stricter compliance).
Check regulatory and contract requirements – Do your clients or landlords require you to hold certain cover levels? Are you required by a professional body?
Compare insurers and brokers – Use comparison websites or brokers to get quotes, but don’t just pick the cheapest. Cover scope, limits, exclusions and insurer reliability matter.
Ensure adequate limits – A simple £1 m liability cover might not be enough in London for certain trades, property-based work or higher value contracts.
Understand policy wording – What is excluded? For example, professional indemnity may exclude physical damage claims; public liability may exclude professional advice.
Bundle where possible – A combined small business package may bring convenience and cost savings (though ensure it truly covers your specific risks).
Review annually – As your business grows, your needs change. London businesses especially might expand services, staff or premises.
Maintain documentation – If you’re a contractor working on property, a landlord or letting agent may ask for proof of insurance. Keep your certificate and details up to date.
Independent research highlights several insurers as strong options for small business cover in the UK:
AXA UK — Broad range of covers, competitive pricing.
Aviva — Strong reputation, good range of additional cover options.
Hiscox — Known for small business, professional-services focused cover.
Broker platforms such as Simply Business or comparison sites like MoneySuperMarket, Compare the Market help with quotes.
These companies can be good starting points — but the “best” insurer is one that meets your business’s specific needs, risks and location-context (London).
While insurance can often appear commoditised, Fraser Bond adds value by:
Bringing London property-market insight (particularly useful if your business is property-linked: letting, maintenance, trades, etc).
Helping review and interpret quotes, policy wordings and exclusions so you’re not under-insured.
Integrating insurance cover with your overall business and property strategy — e.g., how insurance interacts with lease obligations, contractor risk, asset protection.
Offering a holistic approach: sales, lettings, compliance, investment and insurance advisory under one roof — giving you more robust business protection.
Ready to ensure your small business in London is properly protected with the best insurance cover?
Visit FraserBond.com or contact our London advisory team for tailored guidance: we’ll review your risks, compare cover and help you select policies that fit your operation and location.
