How can I reduce the risk of a claim against me as a contractor?

There are several things a contractor might do to reduce the risk of facing claims, such as checking contracts carefully prior to signing. Keeping copies could also be smart. Clear communication may also help, including setting deliverables and timelines. Even simple steps, such as obtaining email confirmation, could protect you down the line.

Do I need proof of insurance to work as a contractor?

Proof of insurance is not necessarily essential for contractors since the law doesn’t stipulate rules for most types of cover. However, some clients may request proof that you’re fully insured, and this could even be specified in a contract.

Do I need insurance before starting work as a contractor?

In business, things can go wrong at any time, so getting insurance before you start trading may provide welcome protection. If you’re still very much in the planning stage, then it might be beneficial to start some conversations before you lay down the paperwork.

Business insurance for Picture framing

Running a picture framing business means handling items of both monetary and sentimental value for your customers. Whether framing priceless family photographs, children’s artwork, or valuable prints and paintings, you’re trusted with cherished objects and memories. Despite every care and professional expertise, accidents can happen.

The right insurance can help safeguard your business against unforeseen costs and claims, giving you peace of mind to focus on framing your customers’ treasured pictures.

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Why choose Hiscox for picture framing insurance?

Flexible cover that grows with your businessAdapt your policy as your business grows, whether you’re expanding your product range or scaling up.

Expertise when you need it

When a situation arises, our insurance experts are just a phone call away.

Proud to provide platinum serviceProud winners of the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award 2026, Hiscox is rated 4.8/5 by real customers over the past year.

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Why do picture framers need insurance?

A picture gets damaged

From cutting glass and mounting artwork to using adhesives and delicate materials, framing involves various processes that can lead to accidents. Perhaps a piece of glass shatters during cutting, damaging a customer’s family portrait, or mounting adhesive stains a cherished print.

An employee gets injured

Working with sharp tools, adhesives, and heavy objects poses risks. One of your employees might cut themselves on broken glass, strain their back while lifting a large frame, or injure themselves using a power tool.

Accidents happen, but the right insurance can help ensure you’re prepared if an employee gets injured while working. Employers’ liability insurance can protect you if an employee claims for a work-related injury.

Theft of stock

Picture frames, mounting materials, and workshop equipment are essential inventory for your framing business. Quality frames, specialised tools, and raw materials are also expensive.

One morning, you arrive at your shop to find the door open and notice that stock has been stolen overnight. The right insurance can help cover the cost of replacing stock, minimising disruption to your business, so you can get back to serving customers.

What insurance is available for picture framing services?

Public liability insurance

Regardless of how careful you are, working alongside members of the public can pose risks. A customer might trip over framing materials or cut themselves on broken glass.

If someone claims they were injured while visiting your business, you could be held liable. The right insurance can cover potential compensation and legal defence costs, helping to protect you if unexpected incidents occur.

Learn more about public liability insurance

Employers’ liability insurance

Picture framing can be physically demanding and involves working with potentially dangerous tools and materials. From cutting glass and handling sharp tools to lifting heavy frames and using adhesives, various risks are involved.

Employers’ liability insurance can help protect you if an employee claims they were injured because of their work. Most businesses with employees are legally required (external link) to have this type of insurance, even if they only employ staff occasionally.

Learn more about employers' liability insurance

Business contents insurance

Business contents insurance can provide support against the risk of loss, damage, or theft of items stored inside your shop. Someone might break in and steal your framing equipment or raw materials. A burst pipe could damage your stock and customers’ photographs, or a fire could destroy your tools.

Business contents insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or replacements of damaged or stolen stock and equipment, meaning you can continue working without significant disruption after unexpected incidents.

Learn more about business contents insurance

Unsure which insurance is right for you?

These are just some of the types of cover we offer. Tell us about your picture framing business and we’ll build an insurance policy tailored to you.

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Picture framing insurance: FAQs

Is it a legal requirement to hold business insurance as a shop owner?

Employers’ liability insurance is a legal requirement (external link) for most businesses that employ staff, regardless of whether they work part-time or full-time for you, or as freelancers under your control or supervision.

If you’re a self-employed shop owner and work alone without any employees, you might not need employers’ liability insurance.

Is business insurance necessary for a home-based picture framing business?

Most businesses with employees are legally required (external link) to have employers’ liability insurance, regardless of their location.

However, since picture framing businesses work with valuable items and members of the public, many consider policies such as public liability insurance to be useful.

Can I get insurance for specific high-value items in my shop?

Many business contents insurance policies can be tailored to provide coverage for high-value items in your picture framing shop.

However, coverage limits may vary among insurers, depending on factors such as the total value of the goods, the highest value item, and the security measures in place.