News & Insights

Employers liability insurance in care homes

Nicholas Gordon

26/2/2026

Care Insurance

Employers liability insurance protects care home owners if an employee suffers injury or illness as a result of their work. This includes care staff domestic staff maintenance teams supervisors and management. It applies whether the incident happens suddenly or develops over time due to working conditions.

Cover usually extends to part time temporary and agency staff where the care home has control over how the work is carried out. In many care homes this reflects the reality of staffing models which often include a mix of permanent and flexible workers. Volunteers and trainees may also be included depending on the policy wording and should always be checked carefully.

Employers liability insurance also covers the legal costs associated with defending a claim which can be substantial even when allegations are ultimately unsuccessful.

Why it is critical in care settings

Care work is physically demanding and emotionally challenging. Manual handling personal care shift work long hours and exposure to stress all increase the likelihood of injury or illness occurring in the workplace.

In a care home environment employees work closely with residents and equipment throughout the building. The combination of physical tasks and emotional pressure makes employers liability insurance one of the most important sections of a care home insurance policy.

This cover provides reassurance that if an employee brings a claim the business is financially protected and supported through the legal process.

Legal obligations

Employers liability insurance is required by law for all care homes. A valid certificate must be in place and available to view. This cover must remain active at all times while staff are employed.

Operating without employers liability insurance is a criminal offence. Penalties can be severe and a care home may be prevented from trading legally without it.

Importance of accurate cover

Employers liability policies differ in how they treat different categories of staff. Agency workers volunteers trainees and contractors are not always treated in the same way.

It is important that the policy accurately reflects how the workforce is structured in practice. Changes to staffing arrangements should be disclosed to ensure cover remains appropriate.

Get in touch

Employers liability insurance is a legal requirement and must accurately reflect how your care home operates.

If you would like to review your existing cover or arrange care home insurance you can get a quote through our Typeform, which captures the key details insurers need to provide accurate terms.

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