Do Mobile Hairdressers Need Business Insurance?

By Dean Laming on August 1st, 2023

Hairdressing is a popular career choice, but alongside the flexibility and autonomy of going mobile comes the need for mobile hairdressing insurance.  Weighing the crucial aspects of securing adequate coverage, along with the potential implications of failing to do so, can be overwhelming for any budding entrepreneur.

Throughout this comprehensive guide, we tackle the question: “Do mobile hairdressers need business insurance?”. Covering everything from public liability insurance to comparing providers and premiums, our blog post will equip you with the necessary information to ensure your mobile hairdressing business runs smoothly and securely, minimising risks along the way.

1. Defining Mobile Hairdressing

A mobile hairdressing business involves providing professional hair care services to clients at their preferred locations, such as homes, offices, or event venues.

This type of business allows clients to get their hair done without travelling or waiting in a salon queue. It also offers flexibility to the hairdresser since renting a commercial space like a traditional salon is unnecessary.

Mobile hairdressers can serve a wide range of clientele, including those with limited mobility or busy schedules that don’t allow them time for salon visits. They may offer various services like cutting, colouring, styling, makeup application and bridal packages.

2. Types of Business Insurance for Mobile Hairdressers

There are several types of business insurance that mobile hairdressers should consider when setting up their operations:

  • Public Liability Insurance
  • Professional Treatment Risk Insurance
  • Equipment and Stock Insurance
  • Employers’ Liability Insurance
  • Income Protection for Self-Employed Mobile Hairdressers
  • Vehicle Insurance

3. Understanding Public Liability Insurance

Public liability insurance protects mobile hairdressers from claims made by third parties (clients or others) who suffer injury or property damage during service provision.

Public liability claims commonly increase when there is a surge in foot traffic, as per the observation of specialist insurers.

In case an accident occurs and you are found legally liable, public liability insurance will cover legal costs associated with defending your business against claims, besides compensation payouts if required.

4. The Importance of Professional Treatment Risk Insurance

Professional treatment risk insurance is essential for mobile hairdressers as it covers them against claims causing injury following a poor treatment.

For example, if you recommend a specific colour which the client has a reaction to, your client might seek compensation.

Professional treatment risk insurance will help cover the legal costs and any settlement amounts. Additionally, it’s vital to notice the mounting number of hairdresser injury claims.

5. Equipment and Stock Insurance for Mobile Hairdressers

Mobile hairdressers rely heavily on their tools and supplies to provide quality service. Equipment and stock insurance covers replacing or repairing damaged or stolen equipment such as scissors, combs, brushes, styling products, and other essential items.

This type of coverage helps ensure that you can continue providing services even in case of unforeseen events like theft or damage caused by accidents during transportation.

6. Employers’ Liability Insurance Considerations

If a mobile hairdressing business employs one or more staff members—full-time, part-time or temporary—it is legally required to have employers’ liability insurance in most areas. This type of insurance covers claims made by employees who suffer injuries or illnesses due to their work-related duties.

7. Income Protection for Self-Employed Mobile Hairdressers

Being self-employed means no provision for sick pay if you cannot work due to illness or injury; therefore, income protection can be crucial for mobile hairdressers relying solely on personal earnings from their businesses.

Income protection policies pay a monthly benefit if a policyholder cannot work because of an accident or long-term sickness—allowing mobile hairdressers financial peace while recovering from health issues that prevent them from working.

8. Vehicle Insurance for Mobile Hairdressers

Since travelling between clients’ locations is integral for mobile hairdressing businesses, having appropriate vehicle insurance is essential. It should include coverages for business use apart from standard car insurances such as third-party fire & theft and comprehensive policies.

9. Assessing the Level of Insurance Coverage Needed

To determine the level of coverage needed for your mobile hairdressing business:

Evaluate potential risks associated with providing services

  • Estimate the value of your equipment and stock
  • Consider the number of employees in your business
  • Assess the potential financial impact if accidents or claims occur

10. Comparing Insurance Providers and Premiums

Once you identify your insurance needs, it’s time to shop around and compare policies offered by different providers. When comparing, factors include premiums, coverage extent, policy exclusions, customer service quality, and claim handling processes.

11. Managing and Reducing Risks in Mobile Hairdressing Businesses

To minimise risks and maintain a good reputation within the industry:

  • Keep up-to-date with health and safety regulations
  • Regularly train staff on best practices and safe working methods
  • Maintain well-stocked first aid kits at all times
  • Service equipment regularly to avoid malfunctions during use

Contact Salon Saver for Mobile Hairdresser Insurance

Being a mobile hairdresser provides flexibility, creativity, and independence. However, it is imperative to protect yourself with the right insurance.

Running a mobile hairdressing business without proper coverage can expose you to significant risks, and the aftermath of any unforeseen event can lead to escalating costs, draining legal disputes, and possibly the end of your career.

At Salon Saver, we aim to equip you with a complete understanding of mobile hairdressing insurance and the potentially hefty price of going unprotected.

Always remember, having the right insurance can act as a safety net, protecting your mobile hairdressing business from potential calamities and ensuring its sustainability and success.

Dean Laming

Dean Laming is a Chartered Insurance Broker with more than 25 years insurance experience. Through various underwriting, operational and management roles, Dean has built up extensive knowledge of the hair and beauty sector and is now Managing Director of Salon Saver, part of the wider Henry Seymour Group.

All articles by Dean Laming

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