A common question that frequently arises in the equestrian community is whether Public and Employers Liability insurance is necessary for small businesses, particularly as requirements can vary depending on legal obligations. Our team of equine insurance specialists, who are also keen equestrians themselves, have shared below some key reasons why all equine business owners should protect themselves against potential risks. 

When there is a risk of someone suffering injury or damage to property, which may be perceived as negligence of your business, there is a risk that you could, at some point, face a Public Liability claim. 

Public Liability insurance, no matter the size of your business, is always highly recommended – especially in the equine industry as working with horses naturally involves a potential risk of injury to persons, animals or damage to property. 

Key reasons why equestrian businesses need Public and Employers Liability Insurance 

• ​Ensuring legal compliance 

​If you have employees, helpers, or volunteers, UK law requires you to hold Employers Liability insurance. You cannot obtain this without Public Liability cover. 

If you run a riding school or put anybody on the back of a horse in exchange for a fee, then you are required by law to hold a riding school licence under the Riding Establishments Act. The act legally requires you to hold Public Liability insurance. 

• To cover claims for accidents and injuries 

Horses are large, powerful animals. Even calm, well-trained horses can react unpredictably. Injuries can happen to riders, visitors, employees, and others on your property. 

Public and Employers Liability insurance may help cover medical costs, legal fees, and other related expenses in the event that someone is injured or property is damaged and you are found to be negligent. 

Even if you believe your business is not at fault for injuries or damages, a legal claim can still be made against you. If the claim is accepted on the policy, Public and Employers insurance may provide cover for legal costs associated with not only paying a claim should you be deemed negligent, but it also covers the costs of defending a claim too. 

• Legal protection to protect you from financial losses

Public Liability insurance can help protect you from financial loss if someone makes a legal claim against you, due to injury or damage that occurs on your property or from your business activities. 

• Protecting your business reputation 

Having Public Liability insurance builds trust with your clients. It demonstrates that you’re serious about running your business and taking steps to protect both your customers and your business. 

• ​Meeting requirements from clients or partners 

Venues, clients, business partners or council contracts may require you to have insurance before working with you. For example, event organisers or landowners often ask for proof of Insurance before attending third-party premises, this could be for pony rides, open days, shows, etc. 

As a small equestrian business owner, it’s worth considering the different types of Insurance coverage you might need to protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances, for example, Specialist Equestrian Business insurance, Professional Liability insurance, Management Liability and Cyber Cover – which can all be tailored to your business’s needs. 

Ravenhall Rural’s specialist equine insurance brokers work with you to understand your situation and advise you on the best insurance coverage for your business. ​