Do I Need Public Liability Insurance to Install Fire Alarms?

What Is Public Liability Insurance?

Public liability insurance covers your business if a third party (like a customer, building occupant, or site visitor) suffers injury or property damage because of your work.

In the fire alarm industry, this could involve:

• Damaging walls, ceilings or fixtures during installation

• Triggering accidental alarm activations causing disruption

• Causing fire system faults that lead to water or smoke damage

• Injuring someone while working on-site (e.g. dropping tools or obstructing exits)

It’s one of the most essential policies for any fire protection contractor — whether you’re a sole trader or running a team.

Is Public Liability Insurance Legally Required for Fire Alarm Installers?

No, it’s not a legal requirement in the UK.
However, in practice:

• Almost all main contractors require proof of cover before allowing site access

• Commercial clients and building managers expect it in tenders and contracts

• Letting agents, landlords, and local authorities often demand it for domestic or residential work

• If you’re working in schools, hospitals, or public buildings, it’s nearly always mandatory

Not having it can result in:

• Being refused access to jobs

• Losing tenders

• Paying out of pocket for claims or damage

Real-World Examples Fire Alarm Installers Will Recognise

You’re fitting a sounder above a false ceiling in an office.

A drill slips, damaging a hidden cable and shorting nearby lighting — you’re liable.

During a first fix in a school, a fire alarm zone is wired incorrectly.

An early activation causes evacuation and disruption — and you’re blamed.

A site visitor trips on your temporary wiring or cabling.

They suffer an injury and make a compensation claim.

In all of these cases, public liability insurance would handle the legal defence, compensation payout, and associated costs.

How Much Cover Do Fire Alarm Installers Need?

Most fire alarm contractors and companies opt for:

• £2 million – minimum for smaller domestic or sub-contracted work

• £5 million – standard for commercial, retail, education or healthcare jobs

• £10 million – sometimes required by local councils or government projects

Your client or site manager will usually specify the minimum level in your contract or onboarding documents.

What If You Subcontract or Work for a Main Contractor?

Even if you’re a subcontractor, you’re still responsible for your own actions and work.

• You must have your own public liability insurance unless it’s confirmed in writing that you’re covered by the main contractor’s policy (rare).

• Most main contractors will require you to show proof of insurance before issuing a job sheet or site induction.

What Does It Not Cover?

Public liability insurance does not cover:

• Faulty design or professional advice (that’s professional indemnity)

• Damage to your own tools or van

• Injury to your employees (that’s employers’ liability)

• Theft of your tools (requires tools insurance)

It’s essential — but just one part of a full business protection package.

How Much Does It Cost?

The price depends on:

• Your turnover

• Type of work (e.g. residential vs commercial)

• Number of employees

• Your claims history

• Your cover limit

Typical monthly cost: from £8 to £25 for small-to-medium fire alarm contractors.

Adding it to a combined policy with tools or PI cover can often save money.

Need a quote or want to review your current policy?
Call us on 01474 833 322 or get a fast online quote at: www.abainsurance.co.uk/trades-insurance-quote/