Professional Indemnity Insurance for Designers

Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) protects you if a client claims there’s a problem with your work — whether it’s an error, omission, or breach of contract. Here are the essentials:

1. Cost vs. Cover

A low-cost policy might look appealing, but may not give you the cover you actually need. Always check what’s included — from the level of indemnity to exclusions and legal support. Cheap cover isn’t always good value.

2. How Much Cover Do You Need?

Cover typically ranges from £100,000 to £10 million+. Ask yourself:

• What’s the value of the project?
• What’s the worst-case financial risk?
• What does the client require contractually?

If in doubt, it’s better to be cautious — underinsuring can cost more in the long run.

3. How Long Should You Keep Cover?

PII works on a “claims made” basis — it only covers you if your policy is active when a claim is made, not when the work was done. This means you should keep cover:

• After projects finish
• After contracts end
• Even after retirement (via run-off cover)

4. How Long Can Claims Be Made?

You may be liable for:

• 6 years after completing a project (standard contracts)
• 12 years if your contract was signed as a deed
• Up to 15 years under UK long-stop legislation

Check your contracts — they often define how long you must maintain cover.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need PII if I’m a freelance designer working from home?
Yes — if you provide professional advice or design services, you can be held liable for mistakes, even as a sole trader.

Is PII a legal requirement?
Not always, but many clients — especially in public or commercial sectors — will require it as part of your appointment.

Can I cancel my policy once a project is done?
You can, but you may be exposed if a claim arises later. It’s safer to maintain cover for the relevant liability period (6–12 years or more).

What if I lower my cover during a contract?
You could be in breach of contract. Always check the agreement before changing your policy terms.

What is run-off cover?
Run-off cover protects you after you stop trading — essential for freelancers and retiring professionals, since claims can come years later.

Choosing the Right PII Provider: What to Look For

Choosing the right provider isn’t just about price. Look for:

✅ Experience in the design sector – They’ll understand your risks and needs.
✅ Clear and simple policy wording – Avoid hidden exclusions or complex terms.
✅ Good support – Legal helplines, claims assistance, and helpful staff matter.
✅ Strong reputation – Check independent reviews and professional forums.
✅ Flexible options – Ability to scale cover, add run-off, and meet client terms.
✅ FCA-authorised – Ensure the provider is financially stable and regulated.

Final Tip:

Don’t just buy insurance. Choose protection. The right cover helps you stay professional, protected, and contract-ready.