13 Common Myths About Public Liability Insurance (And the Truth Behind Them)
As a creative freelancer, you might assume that Public Liability Insurance (PLI) isn’t relevant to you. After all, you don’t run a construction site or a busy shop. But accidents can happen in any profession, and if they involve a third party - such as a client, supplier, or even a member of the public - you could find yourself facing a costly legal claim.
Unfortunately, many freelancers avoid getting Public Liability Insurance because of common myths and misconceptions, such as the below:
Myth 1: "I Work From Home, So I Don’t Need Public Liability Insurance"
Many freelancers assume that because they don’t work in public spaces, they’re not at risk of liability claims. However, even if you work from home, you could still face claims.
For example, a client visits your home office, trips over your laptop cable and injures themselves. Without Public Liability Insurance, you could be held responsible for any legal costs.
The truth is if you meet clients in person (even occasionally) or if your work has any potential to cause damage or injury, PLI is worth considering.
Myth 2: "My Clients Would Never Sue Me"
You might have great relationships with your clients, but that doesn’t mean they won’t take legal action if something goes wrong. Even minor incidents can lead to disputes.
For example, you’re a freelance photographer, and while setting up for a shoot at a client’s venue your tripod falls and damages their expensive flooring, so the client demands compensation.
Good relationships don’t prevent legal claims - accidents do happen, and clients may be legally required to recover their losses.
Myth 3: "Public Liability Insurance Coves Every Type of Mistake"
PLI is not a catch-all insurance. It specifically covers injury or property damage caused to third parties - but not things like missed deadlines, copyright issues or professional errors.
For example, a graphic designer accidentally uses an unlicensed image in a project, and the client gets into a legal battle over copyright infringement. PLI won’t cover this - but Professional Indemnity Insurance might.
Public Liability Insurance can be essential for protecting against physical damages and injuries, but freelancers may need additional policies to cover other risks. If you are unsure what type of cover you need, our team is here to answer all of your questions.
Myth 4: "It’s Only for High-Risk Industries Like Construction"
Yes, builders and tradespeople are recommended to have some form of Public Liability insurance, but so do designers, photographers, marketers, copywriters, event planners, and many other freelancers and small business owners.
Any profession that involves client interactions, events, or equipment in public spaces can be at risk.
Even low-risk jobs carry liability risks. If your work involves meeting clients, visiting venues, or working on-site, Public Liability insurance can be important.
Myth 5: "My Business Is Too Small to Need Insurance"
Many freelancers think Public Liability Insurance is only for large businesses, but even a one-person business can face expensive claims.
In fact, smaller businesses are often less equipped to handle unexpected costs. For example, a self-employed videographer accidentally knocks over a client’s expensive piece of artwork while filming on location. The cost of damages could be devastating without insurance.
No business is too small for a liability claim. If you operate as a sole trader, contractor or freelancer, you could still be at risk.
Myth 6: "Public Liability Insurance Is Expensive"
Many freelancers assume insurance will be unaffordable, but in reality, Public Liability Insurance can be very cost-effective - especially when compared to the potential cost of a claim.
For more information, read our guide: How Much Is Public Liability Insurance for the Self-Employed?
Myth 7: "My Equipment Is Covered by Public Liability Insurance"
Public Liability Insurance does not cover damage to your tools, devices, or personal property - it only covers claims related to injury or damage you cause to others.
For example, a freelance musician’s amplifier is stolen from a gig venue. PLI won’t cover the loss - but equipment insurance would. If you want to protect your tools, consider business equipment or contents insurance.
Myth 8: "I Mostly Work Online, So I Don’t Need It"
While online freelancers are less likely to need Public Liability Insurance, there are still scenarios where they might.
For example, a marketing consultant books a venue for a client event. During the event, a guest trips over a promotional banner and gets injured - the consultant could be held responsible.
If you ever work at events, co-working spaces or client premises, PLI could still be relevant.
Myth 9: "I Can Just Get Insurance If Something Happens"
Insurance isn’t something you can buy after an accident and expect coverage - it has to be in place before an incident occurs.
If you wait until you need it, it’s already too late. But don't worry, if you are unsure what type of cover you may need, our team is available to answer your questions.
Myth 10: "£1 Million Cover Is More Than Enough"
Many freelancers assume £1 million in coverage is excessive, but some clients, venues or contracts may require higher limits (such as £2 million or even £5 million).
The truth is your cover level should be based on your specific industry, risks and client expectations.
Myth 11: “Public Liability Insurance is Legally Required”
Contrary to popular belief, Public Liability Insurance is not a legal requirement in the UK. While Employer's Liability Insurance is mandatory for businesses with employees, PLI remains optional.
However, opting out can leave you vulnerable to significant financial risks if a third party files a claim against your business.
Myth 12: “Employer's Liability Insurance Covers Third-Party Claims”
Employer's Liability Insurance protects against claims made by employees due to work-related injuries or illnesses.
It does not cover claims from clients, other businesses, or the public. For protection against these third-party claims, PLI is essential.
Myth 13: “Public Liability Insurance Covers All Aspects of My Work”
PLI specifically covers claims related to injury or property damage to third parties. It does not cover professional negligence or poor advice; that's where Professional Indemnity Insurance comes in.
Additionally, PLI typically doesn't cover your tools or personal equipment - separate Equipment Insurance is needed for that.
Do You Need Public Liability Insurance?
Public Liability Insurance (PLI) is a crucial safeguard for creative freelancers, protecting you against claims of injury or property damage arising from your work.
However, several myths persist that may lead some to overlook its importance. Not every freelancer will need Public Liability Insurance, but if your work involves meeting clients, working in public spaces, or using equipment that could cause damage, it’s worth serious consideration.
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Your craft deserves the best protection. With Mode Insurance, you're not just getting coverage - you're gaining a partner who understands and supports your creative journey.
Any views or opinions expressed above are for guidance only and are expressed in generic terms. They are not intended as a substitute for readers taking appropriate professional advice relevant to individual circumstances.
Written by
Richa Patel
Digital Marketing Exec
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Your craft deserves the best protection. With Mode Insurance, you're not just getting coverage - you're gaining a partner who understands and supports your creative journey.