What insurance does a pub need?

Pubs typically need buildings and contents insurance, public liability, employers liability, business interruption, and loss of licence cover. Given the nature of licensed premises, personal accident cover for bar staff and cellar equipment cover are also worth considering.

What is pub insurance and what does it cover?

Pub insurance is a specialist package for licensed premises. It covers the building and its contents, your legal liability to customers and staff, loss of income if you cannot trade, and loss of licence if your premises licence is revoked or suspended.

Is pub insurance the same as a standard commercial property policy?

No. Pub insurance is tailored to the specific risks of licensed premises, including liability for incidents involving alcohol, loss of licence protection, and cover for cellar equipment. Standard commercial property insurance is unlikely to be adequate for a pub.

What does loss of licence insurance cover for pubs?

Loss of licence insurance covers the financial loss you suffer if your premises licence is revoked or suspended by the licensing authority. For pubs, the licence is essential to trade. This cover typically pays for loss of profit during the period the licence is suspended or revoked.

Do I need separate insurance for pub events and live music?

Events and live music at your pub should be declared to your insurer. Many pub insurance policies include cover for regular events, but larger or one-off events may require additional cover or a separate event insurance policy. We will advise on the appropriate cover for your activities.

Pub Insurance: A Complete UK Guide

Pub insurance provides specialist cover for licensed premises, including buildings, contents, public liability, and loss of licence. This guide explains what pub insurance covers and how to arrange the right policy for your premises.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does pub insurance cover?

Pub insurance typically covers buildings, contents, stock, public liability, employers liability, business interruption, and loss of licence. Some policies include entertainment liability, money cover, and legal expenses. Cover is subject to underwriting, insurer terms and acceptance.

Is loss of licence cover included in pub insurance?

Loss of licence cover is available as part of a pub insurance policy and protects against the financial loss arising from the revocation or suspension of your premises licence. Not all policies include it as standard, so it is worth confirming with your broker.

Do I need employers liability insurance for my pub?

Yes. If you employ staff, including part-time and casual workers, employers liability insurance is a legal requirement. The minimum legal requirement is £5 million, though most insurers provide £10 million as standard.

Can I insure a pub with a flat roof or non-standard construction?

Yes, but non-standard construction properties require specialist underwriting. Insurers will assess the construction type, condition, and maintenance history. We work with insurers who can accommodate a wide range of property types.

How do I arrange pub insurance through Focus Insurance?

Call us on 01733 263311 or request a call-back. Our brokers will discuss your premises, trading hours, and cover requirements before approaching the market on your behalf.

Cover is subject to underwriting, insurer terms and acceptance