🟢 Introduction
Freelancing on the side? You’re not alone — millions of people in the UK earn income through part-time freelance work, whether it’s tutoring, creative gigs, cleaning, or consultancy.
But here’s the big question:
Do part-time freelancers need business insurance?
In this guide, we’ll break down what insurance covers, who needs it, and why even part-time or “weekend” freelancers might want to get covered — especially if you offer services like dog walking or mobile dressing.
❗ Why Insurance Isn’t Just for Full-Time Freelancers
Many people assume business insurance is only necessary once you’re full-time, VAT registered, or earning a certain amount. Not true.
Here’s why part-time freelancers should still consider it:
- You’re still legally liable if something goes wrong
- Clients may require proof of cover
- It can protect your equipment, reputation, and income
Whether you’re working 5 hours a week or 50 — if you deal with people, advice, or products, you carry risk.
🔍 What Type of Insurance Might You Need?
🔹 Public Liability Insurance
This is especially important if you work in clients’ homes or public spaces — like dog walkers, mobile hairdressers, or private tutors.
It protects you if someone is injured or property is damaged during your work.
🔹 Professional Indemnity Insurance
Useful if you provide advice or intellectual work — like copywriters, consultants, designers, and freelancers doing client-facing creative work.
See our comparison of PolicyBee vs Simply Business to learn which platform offers better PI coverage.
🔹 Equipment Cover
Protects your laptop, tools, clippers, camera, or other professional gear from theft or damage — even in transit.
🤔 Is It Legally Required?
No — UK law does not require freelancers (part- or full-time) to have business insurance in most cases.
But:
- Some clients, venues, or councils will require it
- You may be asked to provide proof of insurance to win jobs
- Certain platforms (like TaskRabbit, Bark, or freelance agencies) may require it
🔄 How Much Does It Cost for Part-Time Freelancers?
Good news — it’s usually very affordable:
| Provider | Starting Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PolicyBee | ~ £50 a year | Designed for freelancers, add-ons available |
| Simply Business | Varies | Lets you customise cover for part-time work |
| Superscript | Monthly plans | Flexible coverage starting around £5/month |
Even basic public liability cover can protect you from claims worth thousands, for less than the cost of a coffee per month.
🧠 Final Thoughts
You might be a part-time tutor, a weekend wedding stylist, or a side-hustling dog walker — but risk doesn’t scale down just because your hours do.
Check out our full insurance guide for dog walkers
Explore cover options for mobile hairdressers
Or compare top providers head-to-head
Insurance can give you peace of mind, even if you’re just freelancing on evenings or weekends.