What Insurance Does a Fire Protection Contractor Need?

Public Liability Insurance

This is the most important cover for fire protection contractors. It protects you if your work causes property damage or injury to third parties.

Example: You’re installing a sprinkler system and accidentally trigger a leak that damages expensive equipment. Public liability insurance covers the claim.

• Often required on construction sites and by main contractors

• Minimum recommended cover: £2 million

Employers’ Liability Insurance

If you have any staff, including apprentices or labourers, you’re legally required to have employers’ liability insurance.

Covers: Compensation claims from employees injured or made ill because of their work.
Legal penalty for non-compliance: Up to £2,500 per day.

Professional Indemnity Insurance

Fire protection work often involves system design, risk assessment, or technical specifications. If your advice or design leads to financial loss, this policy protects you.

Example: You recommend a fire alarm system layout that doesn’t meet building regs or fails in a key area. PI insurance covers legal fees and compensation if you’re held responsible.

Essential if you:

• Design or specify fire alarm or sprinkler layouts

• Provide consultancy or fire risk assessments

• Subcontract out designs but retain responsibility

• Work on commercial or public sector projects

Contractors’ All Risks Insurance

This covers the work in progress and materials on-site — especially useful for larger fit-outs or new build projects.

Covers:

• Damage to installed systems during the job

• Materials and tools stored on-site

• Temporary buildings or structures (e.g. site cabins)

Example: You’re midway through fitting a dry riser, and a break-in results in stolen pipework. This policy helps replace what’s lost.

Tools and Equipment Insurance

Fire protection contractors often use specialist tools, like drills, testers, and access equipment. Tools insurance protects you against:

• Theft from vans or sites

• Accidental damage or loss

• Equipment in transit

Make sure your policy covers overnight storage in vehicles, a common clause many overlook.

Van Insurance with Business Use

Your van is essential to your business. Standard cover often won’t include:

• Tool transport

• Business mileage

• Cover for signage, racking, or specialist kit

ABA Insurance can help you find a policy that reflects the real use of your vehicle on jobs.

Optional Extras to Consider

• Income protection – Covers your earnings if you’re injured or ill

• Personal accident cover – Pays out in the event of serious injury

• Legal expenses insurance – For disputes, debt recovery, or contract issues

• Product liability – Especially important if you’re supplying components

Is Insurance a Legal Requirement for Fire Protection Contractors?

Only employers’ liability is required by law if you employ anyone.
However, most clients and main contractors will demand public liability and PI insurance before you can work on-site — especially on commercial or regulated projects.

For fire safety contractors, being insured isn’t just about compliance — it’s about credibility and trust.

Get Specialist Insurance with ABA

At ABA Insurance, we provide tailored policies for fire protection contractors — whether you’re installing fire alarms, suppression systems, or doing full commercial fit-outs.

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/