Public Liability vs. Employers' Liability: What's the Difference?

Insurance terminology can be confusing, especially when you're just trying to get your cleaning business off the ground. Two terms you'll hear constantly are Public Liability and Employers' Liability. While they sound similar, they cover completely different risks.

Public Liability (PL)

Who it protects: Your clients and members of the public.

What it covers: This insurance kicks in if someone else (not you or your staff) gets injured or their property is damaged because of your business activities.

• Example 1: You leave a vacuum cord trailing across a hallway, and a client trips over it and breaks their arm. PL covers their compensation claim.
• Example 2: You accidentally knock over an expensive sculpture while dusting. PL covers the cost of replacement.

Is it mandatory? Not legally, but it is practically essential. Most commercial clients will refused to work with you without it.

Employers' Liability (EL)

Who it protects: Your staff (employees, temps, and sometimes subcontractors).

What it covers: This protects you if an employee gets sick or injured because of their work for you.

• Example: An employee develops a respiratory issue from working with harsh chemicals without proper PPE, or injures their back lifting heavy equipment. EL pays their compensation.

Is it mandatory? Yes. In the UK, if you employ anyone (even on a casual basis), it is a legal requirement to act hold at least £5 million of EL cover. You can be fined £2,500 for every day you are not properly insured.

Summary Table

Insurance Type	Protects	Legal Requirement?
Public Liability	Clients & Public	No (but highly recommended)
Employers' Liability	Your Staff	Yes (if you employ people)

Don't get caught out. Make sure you have the right cleaning insurance package that includes both PL and EL if you are growing your team.