Pet sitter insurance that covers all your visits
Pet sitter insurance from a panel of trusted UK insurers
Insure your pet sitter business for liability with zero hassle
Pet sitter insurance is a public liability policy that protects pet sitters against claims for injuries or property damage that occur while caring for animals in clients’ homes or on their own premises. It ensures financial protection for sitters responsible for pets and property.
In partnership with some of the leading UK insurers, we’ll not only get you a better pet sitter insurance deal with the best cover available, we work hard to keep you as a customer year after year.
Whatever you do for business, whether you’re a sole trader or limited business owner, we understand that you need to protect your livelihood.
24/7 claims service
We’re here for you round the clock when you need us most.
Fairer prices for all
As a specialist insurance broker, we search our panel of leading UK insurers to find the right policy for your pet sitting business.
World-class support
Our UK-based expert team are here to provide you with dedicated support.
We use a combination of technology and a wealth of experience to give you unrivalled cover and more affordable public liability insurance prices. Get a pet sitter liability insurance quote today.
With over 50 years of experience providing top-quality insurance for public liability, you can be sure we’ve got you covered.
What is pet sitter insurance?
It covers a range of scenarios where your pet sitting business could be held legally responsible for causing harm or damage.
Some key areas it typically includes are injury to third parties, damage to third-party property, legal expenses, and compensation claims.
Public liability insurance is crucial to pet sitters for several reasons:
- Business reputation: Insurance shows clients that you take animal care and home responsibility seriously.
- Financial protection: Accidents such as pet injuries, property damage, or lost keys can lead to claims, which insurance covers.
- Client Requirements: Many pet owners want assurance that you’re insured before giving access to their home and pet.
The benefits of a pet sitter insurance policy
Personal injury claims
Pet sitter insurance protects you if someone is injured due to your actions while pet sitting, such as a visitor tripping over a pet or pet equipment.
Damage to property
If you accidentally damage a client’s property, for example, spilling water, scratching furniture, or losing a house key, this insurance ensures you’re covered.
Legal protection
Pet sitter insurance covers legal fees for defending your business against claims, whether or not you’re at fault.
* Subject to your chosen level of policy cover and the prevailing policy excess.
How much does pet sitter insurance cost?
This depends on the nature and size of your dog walking business, the level of risk involved and any claims history you might have.
The cost of public liability insurance varies based on several factors:
Type of cover
Cover levels typically start at £1 million. Higher limits may be needed when caring for multiple pets or high-value property.
Nature of business
Premiums may be higher for sitters offering additional services like overnight stays, grooming, or administering medication.
Location
Where you operate can also influence premiums, with high-value areas or locations with stricter liability expectations affecting pricing.
Business size and turnover
Sitters with many regular clients may face higher premiums due to increased time spent in homes and more risk exposure.
Number of employees
If you employ other sitters or assistants, this can raise your premium due to the increased likelihood of claims.
Claims history
A claims history can influence pricing; pet sitters with no prior incidents often secure lower premiums than those with claims.
Pet sitter insurance frequently asked questions
When do I need to get pet sitter public liability insurance?
As soon as you start caring for other people's pets — even if it's just one or two animals for a friend or neighbour. As a professional pet sitter you're responsible for the animals in your care and for any incidents they cause. Cover should be in place before you take on your first client.
Is pet sitter public liability insurance a legal requirement?
No — it isn't a legal requirement in the UK. However, many pet owners will ask for proof of insurance before entrusting their animals to you, and professional pet sitting associations typically require it as a condition of membership. It's also essential protection given that you're responsible for animals that can behave unpredictably around strangers.
What does pet sitter public liability insurance actually cover?
It covers compensation claims and legal fees if a member of the public is injured or their property is damaged as a result of your pet sitting business activities — for example, a client tripping over equipment in your home, or damage caused to a third party's property while you're carrying out your work. Cover relating to animals themselves can vary significantly between policies. Speak to our team on 0345 222 6318 to make sure your policy covers your specific situation.
What isn't covered by pet sitter public liability insurance?
Every policy is different, and cover relating to animals — including injury caused by a pet in your care — can vary depending on your specific policy and insurer. It's important to understand exactly what your policy includes before you start working with clients. Our team is happy to walk you through the details on 0345 222 6318.
What limit of cover should I choose?
Standard cover starts at £1 million, which is sufficient for most pet sitting businesses. If you sit for a large number of animals simultaneously or care for exotic or high-value pets, you may want to consider a higher level. Our team can advise on the right level for your specific business.
Is public liability insurance tax deductible?
Yes — business insurance is an allowable expense, which means you can deduct the cost when calculating your taxable profit. Make sure you keep your policy documents and receipts as records for HMRC. If you're unsure, speak to your accountant.
Do you provide evidence of cover?
Yes — you'll receive proof of cover instantly when your policy is in place, which you can share with clients straight away. If you also take out employers' liability cover, a Certificate of Employers' Liability will be issued immediately for display at your premises.
Why can I trust insurd?
We've been arranging insurance for over 50 years — now trading as insurd — and we're authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Register Number: 308508), and over a thousand real customers have shared their experiences with us on Trustpilot.
You can verify our status directly on the FCA register.
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