Is Employers' Liability insurance always mandatory for restaurants in the UK?

Yes, almost all UK restaurants employing staff are legally required to have Employers' Liability insurance under the Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969. This applies regardless of whether staff are full-time, part-time, temporary, or family members, with very few exceptions. Cover is subject to underwriting criteria and terms.

What is the difference between Public Liability and Product Liability insurance for a restaurant?

Public Liability insurance may provide cover for claims from third parties (e.g., customers, visitors) for injury, death, or property damage caused by your business operations (e.g., a slip and fall on your premises), subject to underwriting criteria and terms. Product Liability insurance specifically may provide cover for claims arising from injury or damage caused by the products you sell or supply, such as food poisoning or allergic reactions from the food served, subject to underwriting criteria and terms.

Will my standard restaurant insurance policy cover cyber attacks?

Standard commercial policies typically do not include comprehensive cyber cover. With restaurants increasingly relying on digital systems, a separate Cyber Insurance policy is often necessary to protect against data breaches, ransomware, and other cyber threats. Cover may be available for costs like forensic investigation, data recovery, and legal expenses, subject to underwriting criteria and terms.

How can I avoid underinsurance for my restaurant's assets?

To avoid underinsurance, it is crucial to regularly review and update the sums insured for your contents, fixtures, fittings, and stock. Given current inflationary pressures, it is advisable to base these values on the current replacement cost, not historical purchase prices. An insurance broker can assist in assessing appropriate values.

Does Business Interruption insurance cover losses from pandemics like COVID-19?

Many standard Business Interruption policies typically exclude losses arising from pandemics or communicable diseases unless a specific, often expensive, extension has been purchased. It is vital to check your policy wording carefully and discuss any concerns with your commercial insurance broker.

Navigating Restaurant Insurance UK in 2026: A Complete Cover Guide for Food Businesses

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