Painters and decorators insurance: spills, ladders and old paint

Decorators spend their days inside other people's best rooms. The everyday claim is rarely dramatic. It is a ruined carpet, a marked floor or overspray on a car.

The cover to look at

• Public liability, the main policy for this trade.
• Employers' liability if you take on anyone.
• Tools cover for sprayers and access kit.
• Personal accident cover if you work alone.

Ladders and stairwells

HSE says ladders should not automatically be your first choice. They suit low-risk, short-duration work.¹ A tall stairwell or a long day on one wall may need a tower or platform.

Your health

HSE's construction health guidance lists cancer risks for painters, alongside noise, vibration and manual handling.² Long careers make these risks matter. Use extraction and the right masks when sanding or spraying.

Old surfaces

Drilling and refurbishment are among the higher-risk activities for asbestos.³ Older textured ceilings can contain it. Do not sand or scrape them until you know what is there. Many liability policies exclude asbestos claims, so check yours.