What is professional indemnity insurance?

Everything you need to know about PI insurance for professionals in the UK.

Definition

Professional indemnity insurance (PI insurance) is a form of liability insurance that protects professionals against claims made by clients who suffer financial loss due to professional negligence, errors, or omissions.

In simple terms, if you give professional advice or provide professional services, and a client claims they've lost money because of something you did wrong (or failed to do), PI insurance protects you against the cost of defending that claim and any compensation you're ordered to pay.

Who needs PI insurance?

Many professions are legally required to hold PI insurance, including:

Even if your profession doesn't require it, PI insurance is recommended for anyone offering professional services. A single claim could threaten the viability of your business.

What does it cover?

PI insurance typically covers:

Most policies include a level of cover (e.g., £1 million) which is the maximum the insurer will pay out for a claim.

How much does it cost?

The cost of PI insurance varies widely depending on your profession, experience, claims history, and the level of cover you choose. Typical costs range from £100 to £500+ per year for individuals, though larger firms may pay significantly more.

How to get PI insurance

Use comparison tools like Leo to find and compare PI insurance policies from across the UK market. You'll typically need to provide information about your business, experience, and claims history. Most quotes and policies can be arranged online.

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