Employers' liability
Employers' liability insurance is a legal requirement for UK businesses with employees. It helps protect to businesses against claims by employees suffering injuries or illnesses due to their work.
For property agents, the risks are diverse, sometimes arising from everyday activities.
Slips and falls during inspections: Say a negotiator visits a rental property and slips on wet steps, breaking their wrist. Even when the hazard originates from the landlord's premises rather than the agency's own office, the employer may still face a claim.
Work-related strain or poor workstation setup: Administrative staff who spend long periods on screens or at desks may develop persistent neck, back or shoulder pain if their workstation is not properly adjusted.
Accidents while installing signage: Putting up 'To Let' or 'For Sale' signs can involve unstable surfaces, heavy equipment and poor weather conditions. Loss of balance or an unexpected slip can lead to injury.
Stress-related illness: Employees may raise concerns about stress or mental health issues linked to workload or insufficient workplace support. If they believe their condition is connected to their role, a claim could follow.
Why this cover matters
- Can cover claims relating to employee injury, or illness connected to work activities.
- Cover may include compensation, legal representation and investigation costs.
- Can help with the costs of maintaining business continuity when workplace incidents affect staffing and operations.
Public liability
Public liability (PL) insurance protects a business if a member of the public — such as a client, contractor or visitor — suffers bodily injury, or property damage occurring on their premises or during business operations. As property agents routinely conduct viewings, undertake in-office inspections and visit external sites, PL risks are common.
Incidents during property viewings: Prospective tenants or buyers may not be familiar with the property layout. Loose carpet, uneven flooring or unstable steps can cause trips, slips or falls, leading to injuries.
Damage caused during marketing activities: High-quality property marketing can involve drones or specialist equipment. If a drone loses signal and damages a neighbouring vehicle or property, the agency may be held responsible.
Issues with external signage: Signboards placed outside properties can become loose, especially on windy days. If a signboard detaches and falls, it could injure a passerby, leading to potential claims and reputational damage.
Accidents in the agency office: Hazards such as a wet floor without a warning sign may cause visitors to slip and sustain injuries.
Why this cover matters
- Helps with response to claims from third parties for injury or property damage.
- Helps cover compensation, legal costs and other related expenses.
- Supports reputation management following incidents involving clients or the public.
Office cover
Office cover protects the physical premises and essential equipment that property agents rely on. For many agencies, the office is the hub for storing documents, hosting meetings and operating IT systems. Any event disrupting access to these resources can affect the smooth running of the business. This is why it is important to consider the everyday risks that could impact office operations.
Water or flood damage: A burst pipe can damage computers, furniture, phones, files and other essential items. Replacing these quickly is crucial to maintaining seamless service for clients.
Fire and business interruption: An electrical fault could start a fire, halting operations temporarily. Even short-term closures can hinder sales progress, renewals and tenancy arrangements.
Equipment breakdown: Heating systems and servers are vital for comfortable working conditions and data access, respectively. An unexpected fault may disrupt agency operations until repairs are completed.
Theft of keys, documents or devices: Stolen keys, contracts or electronic devices compromise client security and interrupt essential tasks, particularly if sensitive information is involved.
Why this cover matters
- Helps cover the repair or replacement of office contents and essential equipment.
- Business interruption benefits supporting lost income and additional costs.
- Reduced disruption following unexpected events affecting office functionality.
Property agencies depend on reliable systems, safe working conditions and smooth interactions with clients and the wider public. When unexpected problems arise, the consequences can affect both day-to-day activity and long-term stability. Reviewing how the right protection supports each part of the business can help agencies strengthen their preparedness while remaining steady during challenging situations.
Find suitable insurance with Gallagher
Partnered with Propertymark for over 35 years, Gallagher offers specialist insurance solutions for estate and letting agents. With experience supporting property professionals, Gallagher helps businesses continue to serve their clients with confidence.
Or call the team on 0800 138 7536.
Gallagher: specialist insurance products
Gallagher, Propertymark’s official insurance broking partner, has worked with the association for over 35 years to arrange specialist insurance for members.
The sole purpose of this article is to provide guidance on the issues covered. This article is not intended to give legal advice, and, accordingly, it should not be relied upon. It should not be regarded as a comprehensive statement of the law and/or market practice in this area. We make no claims as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein or in the links which were live at the date of publication. You should not act upon (or should refrain from acting upon) information in this publication without first seeking specific legal and/or specialist advice. Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited accepts no liability for any inaccuracy, omission or mistake in this publication, nor will we be responsible for any loss which may be suffered as a result of any person relying on the information contained herein.
Propertymark Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reference number: 311786) and which is permitted to arrange general insurance contracts. Registered address: Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited, Spectrum Building, 55 Blythswood Street, Glasgow G2 7AT.
