Employers liability · Cardiff
Employers liability insurance in Cardiff
Reviewed by Matthew Bartlett, Director, Apex Insurance Brokers Limited · Published 15 July 2026
Employers liability (EL) is compulsory for almost all UK employers. Cardiff businesses with even one employee need EL from day one at a legal minimum of £5m.
The legal requirement
Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969 requires EL cover for most UK employers.
Minimum £5m by law — commercial standard is £10m.
Certificate of insurance must be displayed and provided to HSE inspection.
Penalties for non-compliance: up to £2,500 per day.
Who counts as an employee
- Full-time and part-time staff.
- Casual, temporary, and seasonal workers.
- Apprentices and trainees.
- Volunteers in most working arrangements.
- Some contractors (IR35 / labour-only).
- Directors of companies (usually).
{City} scenarios and rating factors
- Financial services workforce — Admiral, Legal & General presence.
- Media and creative sector — BBC Cymru, S4C, production companies.
- Hospitality peaks around rugby and concerts.
- Cardiff University and Cardiff Met student workforce.
- Welsh Government contractor workforce.
What EL doesn't cover
- Injury to third parties (that's PL).
- Injury from professional-services error (that's PI).
- Property damage.
- Fines and criminal penalties.
Frequently asked
Do I need EL if I'm a sole trader with no staff?
No — EL is only required if you employ others.
What about my partner working in the business?
If your partner is an employee (even informally), EL is usually needed.
Is £5m enough?
£5m is the legal minimum. £10m is commercial standard.
How much does EL cost in Cardiff?
Office-based small firm: £100-£400 per year. Higher-risk trades: £500-£3,000+.
Related
- Public liability insurance Cardiff
- Business insurance Cardiff
- Employers liability for professional firms
Apex Insurance Brokers Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Firm reference number 724952. Registered in England and Wales, company number 07014570. Trading address: QCS, 53 Queen Charlotte Street, Bristol BS1 4HQ · Serving businesses in Cardiff and the wider region.
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