Compare Insurance Providers for Self-Employed Freelancers and Small Businesses (2026)
When you’re self-employed freelancer or running a small operation, insurance is critical. It protects you from accidents, property damage, and liability claims — and in some cases, your clients may require it. For a detailed guide, see ‘Do Freelancers Need Business Insurance in the UK?‘.
Finding the right provider can be confusing. Here’s a comparison of the top insurance providers for UK security professionals going into 2026.
✅ PolicyBee
Best for: Flexible, fully online insurance for freelancers and contractors
Coverage: Public liability, professional indemnity, employer’s liability
Pros:
– Simple online setup
– Pay monthly, cancel anytime
– UK-based support
Cons:
– Slightly higher premiums for high-risk roles
👉 Get a quote and up to 10% off professional indemnity insurance with PolicyBee
✅ Simply Business
Best for: Small limited companies or sole traders with multiple roles
Coverage: Public liability, professional indemnity, business equipment
Pros:
– Easy online comparison and quotes
– Customisable policies
Cons:
– More options can be overwhelming for beginners
✅ Hiscox
Best for: Established companies looking for tailored coverage
Coverage: Public liability, professional indemnity, property
Pros:
– Flexible policies for multiple employees or roles
– Excellent claims support
Cons:
– Minimum premium may be higher than other providers
✅ AXA Business Insurance
Best for: Freelancers seeking comprehensive cover
Coverage: Public liability, employer’s liability, personal accident, equipment
Pros:
– Recognised, trusted brand
– Covers multiple risk areas
Cons:
– Less tailored for micro-freelancers
✅ Superscript
Best for: Modern, flexible insurance for freelancers, contractors and small businesses
Coverage: Public liability, professional indemnity, employer’s liability
Pros:
– Fully online, fast quotes
– Monthly subscription-style policies
– Good for contractors who need flexible cover
Cons:
– Pricing can vary depending on niche risk levels
– Fewer “traditional” business package options than AXA/Hiscox
⚖️ Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | PolicyBee | Simply Business | Hiscox | AXA Business | Superscript |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🔍 Insurer access | Direct-only | Compares quotes from top UK insurers | Direct-only | Direct-only | Direct-only |
| 📄 Policy types | Public liability, professional indemnity, employer’s liability | Public liability, professional indemnity, business equipment | Public liability, professional indemnity, | Public liability, employer’s liability, personal accident, equipment | Public liability, professional indemnity, employer’s liability |
| 💳 Payment options | Monthly, cancel anytime | Annual only | Direct payment (annual, may vary) | Direct payment (annual, may vary) | Monthly or annual subscription-style |
| 🧰 Setup | Quick online setup | Online comparison & quote form | Tailored, possibly manual setup | Online or broker-assisted | Fully online, fast quote builder |
| 👤 Ideal for | Freelancers and contractors | Sole traders or small limited companies | Small businesses or freelancers needing tailored policies | Contractors or small businesses needing comprehensive cover | Freelancers, contractors & micro-businesses needing flexible cover |
| 🔗 Link | Get quotes → | Get cover → | Compare plans → | Get a quote → | Get cover → |
Claim up to 10% off professional indemnity insurance with PolicyBee
📝 Quick Tips for Choosing an Insurance Provider
- Check your role requirements – Door supervisors, CCTV operators, and close protection operatives may have different liability needs.
- Compare premiums and coverage – Cheapest isn’t always best; make sure all necessary risks are covered.
- Look for UK-based support – Claims and policy changes are easier when the provider is local.
- Consider monthly vs annual payment – Monthly plans offer flexibility but may cost slightly more.
When choosing an insurance provider, make sure you understand your obligations and coverage limits.
📌 Final Thoughts
Insurance is not optional if you want to work safely and professionally. Compare providers, choose a policy that matches your role and business size, and keep yourself covered.