Best Insurance for UK Freelancers (2026 Round-Up)
Choosing the right insurance as a freelancer can feel overwhelming, especially with so many providers offering similar-sounding policies. Whether you’re a designer, consultant, photographer, developer, or contractor, this guide breaks down the best insurance types and where to buy them in 2026.
This post focuses on the most important cover types, how they work, average prices, and who needs what. Perfect if you want a simple, no-jargon overview.
📝 What Are the Best Insurance Policies for Freelancers in 2026?
Every freelancer’s needs differ, but the core four insurance types most people rely on are:
- Public Liability Insurance
- Professional Indemnity Insurance
- Equipment & Tools Insurance
- Income Protection Insurance
Alongside these, some freelancers may need Employers’ Liability, Cyber Cover, or Business Legal Protection depending on their setup.
✅ Public Liability Insurance (PL)
Public Liability Insurance covers you if you cause injury to someone or damage their property while working.
Who needs it?
- Photographers
- Event freelancers
- Tradespeople
- Fitness instructors
- Anyone working on-site or with the public
Typical cost (2026):
£50–£150/year
Why it matters:
Many venues and clients won’t hire freelancers unless they have PL cover.
✅ Professional Indemnity Insurance (PI)
Professional Indemnity Insurance protects you if a client claims your work caused them a financial loss. This includes mistakes, missed deadlines, poor advice, or negligence.
Who needs it?
- Designers
- Developers
- Consultants
- Marketers
- Virtual assistants
- Writers & editors
- Accountants
-
Anyone providing expertise or deliverables
Typical cost (2026):
£100–£250/year
Why it matters:
Many agencies and corporate clients require PI as part of the contract before you can start work.
👉 Get a quote and up to 10% off professional indemnity insurance with PolicyBee
✅ Equipment & Tools Insurance
This covers your essential kit — whether that’s a laptop, camera, tablet, tools, or devices you rely on to earn a living.
Who needs it?
- Photographers & videographers
- Developers
- Creatives
- Trades & technical freelancers
Typical cost (2026):
£40–£120/year
Why it matters:
A broken or stolen laptop can halt your business overnight. Tools cover pays for repairs or replacements quickly.
✅ Income Protection Insurance / Business Interruption
Income protection provides a monthly payout if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury.
Who needs it?
Anyone who relies heavily on their freelance income and doesn’t get sick pay.
Typical cost (2026):
£15–£40/month
Why it matters:
Freelancers don’t get sick pay, this policy creates your own safety net.
📜 Optional but Useful Freelance Insurance Types
Cyber Insurance
- For freelancers who store client data or deliver work online.
- Protects against hacking, malware, data breaches, and related claims.
Legal Expenses Cover
- Covers the costs of legal disputes, tax investigations, and contract disagreements.
Employers’ Liability
- Legally required if you hire anyone, even casually.
⭐Best Insurance Provider for UK Freelancers in 2026
Recommended: PolicyBee
PolicyBee specialises in insurance for freelancers, consultants, and small businesses. They’re known for:
- fast online quotes
- simple language
- helpful customer support
- cover tailored to creative, digital, and professional freelancers
✔️ Typical Freelancer Insurance Packages (2026)
Many providers bundle policies together. Here’s what a typical freelance insurance bundle includes:
| Package | Includes | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | Public Liability | Event workers, photographers, small trades |
| Professional | PI + PL | Designers, consultants, marketers, developers |
| Creative | PI + Equipment | Videographers, photographers, agencies |
| Full Cover | PI + PL + Tools + Income Protection | Full-time freelancers |
⚖️ How Much Should Freelancers Budget for Insurance?
A simple way to estimate your 2026 insurance spend:
- Part-time / side-hustle: £5–£10/month
- Full-time creative or digital freelancer: £10–£25/month
- High-risk or specialised freelancer: £20–£40/month
Insurance premiums are tax-deductible as business expenses.
🛡️ What Insurance Should You Get First?
If you’re starting from scratch, begin with the essentials:
Professional Indemnity Insurance
If your work involves advice, design, tech, consulting, or deliverables.
Public Liability Insurance
If you work with clients in person or on-site.
Tools & Equipment Cover
If your income relies on your kit.
Once your income is stable, consider income protection to safeguard long-term stability.
📌 Conclusion
Insurance may seem like just another expense, but for freelancers, it’s a practical way to protect your income, reputation, and clients.
If you want a simple, reliable starting point, begin with Professional Indemnity and Public Liability, then add Equipment and Income Protection as your business grows.