A UK freelancer’s insurance check before a new contract

Begin with the statement of work

Highlight the deliverables, approval steps, deadlines and responsibilities in the proposed project. Then compare that list with the activities you previously disclosed to your insurer. If you are moving from advice into implementation, or from one discipline into another, ask whether the existing description remains appropriate.

A useful briefing sentence is: “This is the service I previously described; this is the additional task in the new contract; this is who will perform it.” Attach the relevant documents rather than asking a broad question about whether you are covered.

Extract the insurance requirements

Make a short table with a row for each requirement. Include the type of cover requested, the stated limit, any duration after completion and any deadline to produce evidence. Copy unusual terminology exactly so your broker can address it directly.

A UK client may ask for professional indemnity and public liability separately. The ABI explains these as distinct products. If you need a refresher, read our comparison of the two before the call.

Flag overseas connections

List the client’s contracting entity, where you will perform the work and any jurisdictions mentioned in the agreement. Ask the broker which sections of the policy address those facts. A familiar brand name does not tell you which legal entity signed the contract.

For example, a UK agency could send you an agreement from a related US company. Treat this as a document-checking issue: identify the contracting party and ask for an explanation of any territorial or jurisdictional limitation. Do not assume that a previous local engagement answers the new question.

Review changes to your team

If you start employing people, employers’ liability becomes a separate issue. GOV.UK sets out the general requirement for at least £5 million of cover from an authorised insurer, together with exceptions and further guidance. Check the applicable position rather than assuming that everyone described as a freelancer has the same status.

For subcontractors, tell the broker who is doing which work and how it is supervised. Ask what evidence or contract terms they need to see. This page does not determine employment status or whether a particular exception applies.

Keep a decision record

1. Save the proposed contract and the version sent for insurance review.
2. Write down questions raised by the broker or legal adviser.
3. Obtain any required revised schedule or endorsement.
4. Check that the final signed contract is the version reviewed.
5. Store the insurance evidence with the project records.

This process will not eliminate disputes, but it can make unresolved requirements visible before work begins. It is especially useful when a fast-moving client asks you to start while paperwork is still being negotiated.

Build a small contract-obligation register

For each active client, record the contracting entity, the signed agreement’s date, the insurance clause reference and any evidence deadline. Keep a separate field for obligations that continue after a project finishes. Ask your adviser to explain unclear language rather than summarising it into a number you might later misunderstand.

For example, an agreement might describe a period after completion. Your record should preserve that wording and the professional explanation received; it should not automatically translate it into a calendar reminder to cancel cover. Timing depends on the obligation and the insurance terms.

Review the register when a client sends a new agreement, not only when your insurance renews. A change in paperwork may matter even where the day-to-day work feels unchanged.