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What are some common claims that Tradies experience?

Common claims for tradies often involve third-party property damage, personal injury, or theft. These incidents can occur on any job site, regardless of trade or experience level.

One of the most frequent issues across all trades is injury to subcontractors or other workers. Claims of this nature can be complex because coverage is not always automatically included under every public liability policy. In some cases, insurers apply very high excesses to these types of incidents. Without the right policy structure, you could be left with significant out-of-pocket costs.

Another frequent claim across trades is theft of tools or equipment. It is important to note that most policies require evidence of forcible and violent entry or visible damage for the theft to be covered. This means that if tools are stolen from an unlocked vehicle or unsecured site without signs of forced entry, the claim may be declined. Understanding these nuances is essential to avoid gaps in coverage.

Below are examples of claims specific to some popular trades.

Plumbers

  • Water damage from burst pipes or incorrectly fitted fixtures
  • Third-party property damage from excavation or backflow
  • Injury to subcontractors while handling heavy equipment or working in confined spaces

Electricians

  • Electrical fires or faults from incorrect wiring
  • Injuries caused by exposed live wires
  • Damage to a client’s appliances during installation or repairs

Carpenters

  • Structural faults leading to property damage
  • Injury to others from unsecured work areas or falling materials
  • Theft of portable power tools or nail guns

Roofers

  • Falls from height resulting in worker injury
  • Water damage from incomplete or faulty roof work
  • Damage to vehicles or property caused by falling debris

Painters and Decorators

  • Overspray or paint spills damaging a client’s property
  • Injury to subcontractors using ladders or scaffolding
  • Claims from clients alleging poor workmanship or damage to finishes

Even well-planned projects can face unexpected incidents. Having the right insurance in place ensures your business is financially protected, with the right terms and conditions to cover your specific work risks.

Contact us to review your current cover and make sure it is suited to your trade, working arrangements, and the way you manage subcontractors and tools.