Operating as a sole trader in London provides flexibility, control, and independence — but it also exposes you personally to risk. Without the protection of a company structure, your personal and business assets are legally connected, meaning you could be held personally liable for claims, losses, or accidents.
Sole trader insurance provides essential protection against these risks, covering everything from client disputes to property damage and injury claims. At Fraser Bond, we help London’s independent contractors, consultants, landlords, and small business owners secure comprehensive insurance that keeps them compliant, credible, and protected.
Sole trader insurance is a flexible package of business insurance policies tailored for the self-employed. It protects you against the financial impact of claims, mistakes, or accidents that could otherwise threaten your business or personal assets.
Common types of cover include:
Public Liability Insurance – Protects you if a member of the public is injured or their property is damaged because of your business activities.
Example: A client trips over your equipment during a property inspection. (simplybusiness.co.uk)
Professional Indemnity Insurance – Covers claims of professional negligence, error, or advice that causes client financial loss.
Example: An incorrect valuation or compliance report delays a sale or costs your client money. (hiscox.co.uk)
Employers’ Liability Insurance – Legally required if you employ anyone (including apprentices or assistants). (gov.uk)
Tools, Equipment, or Office Contents Cover – For physical loss, damage, or theft of business property. (protectivity.com)
Business Interruption Cover – Reimburses lost income following insured events such as fire, flood, or theft.
Cyber or Data Breach Insurance – Covers liability and loss resulting from data breaches or cyber-attacks, increasingly important for consultants and property professionals handling client information.
As a sole trader, you and your business are legally the same entity. This means:
If a client sues you, your personal savings, home, or property assets could be at risk.
If you cause damage or injury during work, you are personally liable.
If your equipment is stolen or damaged, you may not be able to continue trading.
In London’s competitive and high-value market — especially in property, construction, or consulting — a single uninsured incident can be financially devastating. Sole trader insurance protects your business continuity, reputation, and personal financial security.
It also demonstrates credibility: many clients, landlords, and managing agents in London will only engage insured professionals for legal and compliance reasons.
| Cover Type | Typical Limit / Range | Indicative Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Public Liability | £1 million – £10 million | from ~£6–£12/month (simplybusiness.co.uk) |
| Professional Indemnity | £250,000 – £2 million | from ~£8–£20/month |
| Employers’ Liability | £10 million (statutory minimum) | varies by staff count |
| Tools & Equipment | Up to declared value | from ~£5/month |
| Cyber / Data Cover | £100,000 – £1 million | varies by digital exposure |
Premiums depend on trade type, turnover, risk level, and location — with London businesses typically paying slightly higher premiums due to property density and claim frequency.
Fraser Bond recommends these steps for self-employed professionals and tradespeople:
Assess your business risks – Consider physical, professional, data, and client-related exposures.
Check legal and contractual requirements – Clients, property managers, or professional bodies may require specific minimum cover.
Decide your cover priorities – Do you need protection for public interaction, professional advice, or property?
Compare quotes from reputable UK insurers – Hiscox, AXA, Aviva, and Zurich are trusted providers.
Review exclusions carefully – Ensure your policy includes your specific work type and excludes as little as possible.
Bundle where beneficial – Combine public liability, professional indemnity, and tools insurance to simplify management.
Keep certificates on file – Clients or landlords may request proof of insurance before contracting you.
Review annually – As your business expands or diversifies, your insurance should grow with it.
Fraser Bond supports independent contractors, consultants, and sole traders working across London’s property and service sectors. We provide:
Expert advice on matching insurance with your operational risk.
Policy review and comparison to ensure full coverage and value.
Integration with property-compliance frameworks for those working on managed buildings or development sites.
Ongoing advisory support to adapt your cover as your business grows.
With Fraser Bond, you gain confidence that your insurance structure supports not only your business, but also your personal and professional reputation.
Whether you’re a property consultant, tradesperson, designer, or independent contractor, protect your livelihood with the right sole trader insurance.
Visit FraserBond.com or contact our London advisory team for personalised guidance on policies, quotes, and compliance support.
