Who Needs Fire Alarm Installer Insurance?

This type of insurance is designed for:

• Sole traders fitting fire detection systems

• Subcontractors working under main contractors

• Fire protection companies handling commercial installs

• Engineers responsible for commissioning and testing

• Maintenance contractors servicing alarm systems

Whether you’re wiring a domestic system or fitting addressable panels in an office block, you need cover that reflects the real risks of the job.

Why It’s Essential

Installing fire alarms isn’t just electrical work — it’s about life safety. You’re expected to:

• Work to BS 5839 standards

• Issue certification or commissioning documents

• Advise on equipment location and compatibility

• Ensure full system testing and handover

Without the right insurance, a mistake or accident could lead to a claim that puts your business at serious financial risk.

The Core Insurance Policies You’ll Need

Public Liability Insurance

Covers you if your work causes injury or property damage.

Example: A drill slips while mounting a detector, damaging a suspended ceiling. You’re liable — and this cover pays for the repair.

• Usually required by contractors and clients

• Recommended cover: £2 million to £5 million

• Often required for site access or commercial projects

Employers’ Liability Insurance

Legally required if you have any staff — including apprentices or temporary site labourers.

Covers compensation if an employee is injured or made ill by their work.

• Minimum legal cover: £10 million

• Fine for not having it: up to £2,500 per day

Professional Indemnity Insurance

Protects you if your design, advice, or certification causes financial loss to a client.

Example: You sign off a system that doesn’t meet required coverage — and the client sues for redesign and delay costs.

Essential if you:

• Provide layout recommendations or specifications

• Certify or commission systems

• Subcontract design but remain contractually liable

• Work under design & build contracts

Tools & Equipment Insurance

Fire alarm installation requires expensive gear:

• Testers, ladders, drills

• Commissioning software and devices

• Laptops or tablets used for programming

Make sure your tools are covered for:

• Theft from site or vans

• Accidental damage

• Transit between jobs

Look for policies that include overnight van storage, a common requirement in this trade.

Contractors All Risk (CAR) Insurance

If you’re responsible for labour and materials, this covers:

• Work in progress

• On-site materials and equipment

• Temporary structures

• Damage caused by third parties

Especially useful for larger or longer-term commercial jobs.

Product Liability Insurance

If a product you fit — such as a panel or detector — fails and causes damage or injury, you could be held liable, even if you didn’t manufacture it.

Often included in public liability, but check it’s listed as a separate item.

Real-World Scenarios You’ll Recognise

• A sensor fails to detect smoke during testing — and the client questions the system’s reliability

• A ceiling tile cracks during fitting — and the building manager files a damage report

• Your van is broken into overnight — and all your tools are stolen

• You’re asked for proof of insurance before starting a hotel fit-out

• A system you commissioned fails a third-party inspection — and the client holds you responsible

The right insurance gives you protection in all these situations — and shows clients you’re a professional.

How Much Does It Cost?

Pricing depends on your turnover, team size, and cover levels, but typical monthly costs for UK fire alarm installers

Larger fire protection companies with higher-risk or multi-site projects may pay more — and need higher limits of cover.

What Do Clients Expect?

If you’re quoting for commercial, public sector, or framework work, you’ll likely be asked for:

• Proof of public and product liability cover

• Confirmation of PI insurance (for certification work)

• Employers’ liability if applicable

• Cover that meets specific site or contract requirements

Not having the correct paperwork could lose you the job — even if your quote is competitive.

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/