Why do carpenters and joiners need insurance?

Insurance protects carpenters and joiners financially if something untoward happens while running their business. Accidents can happen, no matter how skilled you are. Property’s can be damaged, members of the public injured, and vehicles can be broken into with tools inside stolen.

Having the right cover in place can protect carpenters and joiners financially in these situations. For a self-employed carpenter or joiner, having the financial safety net of insurance can significantly impact the business’ finances. Without it, the business will have to foot the bill itself.

What could happen if a carpenter or joiner doesn't have insurance?

Without appropriate insurance, a carpenter or joiner may have to meet certain costs personally if something goes wrong and they are legally responsible.

For example, imagine a Carpenter installing fitted furniture in a customer's home and accidentally damaging an expensive floor or causing other property damage. A liability claim could involve compensation for the damage caused and associated legal costs to settle the issue. Public Liability Insurance protects against claims involving injury to third parties or accidental damage to third-party property, subject to the policy's terms and conditions.

For a small business, an unexpected claim or loss can significantly impact cash flow. Insurance doesn't prevent accidents, but appropriate cover can reduce the financial impact when they do.

Do clients or contractors ever ask carpenters or joiners for proof of insurance?

Yes. Clients and contractors often ask for proof of insurance as a condition of working with them. In fact, over 37% of Rhino customers said one reason they have insurance is to give customers peace of mind that they’re covered.

While Public Liability Insurance isn’t a legal requirement for carpenters or joiners in the UK, contract work often requires a minimum of £2 million cover. Having evidence of cover readily available can make it easier to show the business meets a client's requirements. With Rhino, you can find this in your account area.

What risks are carpenters and joiners most exposed to on the job?

Carpenters and joiners face a wide range of risks because their work can involve power tools, machinery, moving equipment and site work.

Some of the main risks include:

• Injury to members of the public: Tools, materials and work areas can create hazards for customers, visitors and passers-by.

• Accidental property damage: Drilling, cutting, installing or altering structures can unintentionally damage walls, floors, fixtures, wiring or other property.

• Tool theft or damage: Tool theft remains a problem in the industry. In fact, 80% of Rhino customers know someone who has been victimised by tool theft.

• Injuries to employees: Cuts, falls and other workplace accidents can result in claims against an employer, which is one reason Employers' Liability Insurance is legally required in most employment situations.

• Damage to work or materials: Construction and renovation projects can involve materials, plant and partially completed work that could be accidentally damaged or stolen.

• Illness or injury preventing work: For a self-employed carpenter, being unable to work can directly affect income, so Personal Accident Insurance and Income Protection Insurance may be worth considering.

Choosing the right insurance cover depends on your business needs. A carpenter doing domestic joinery work may have different requirements from one working on large commercial construction projects. Read more here.

How can Rhino help carpenters and joiners protect their business?

Rhino are an award-winning insurance specialist for tradespeople and offers a variety of cover to help protect your business, ranging from Public Liability Insurance to Professional Indemnity Insurance, Income Protection Insurance to Legal Expenses Insurance. You can get a quote online or call the team on 0116 243 7904.