With machinery returning to the roads, livestock being turned out and more members of the public using footpaths and bridleways across the countryside, the risk of third party incidents naturally increases.
Public liability insurance is designed to protect farm businesses if they are held responsible for accidental injury to members of the public or damage to third party property.
David Murchie, Head of Agriculture at Carlisle-based H&H Insurance Brokers, said it was essential that all income-generating activities were covered by public liability insurance to avoid potential issues if a claim arises.
“While most farmers recognise the importance of public liability insurance, it’s vital to remember that the cover only applies to activities that are actually declared on the policy,” said David. “If something generates income and it isn’t noted, there’s a real risk it won’t be covered in the event of a claim.”
David highlighted that campsites, holiday lets, farm shops, contracting work, renewable energy installations and letting land for grazing can all introduce new risks, particularly where members of the public, contractors or delivery drivers are involved.
“Diversification has become an essential part of many rural businesses,” he said. “But each new activity brings its own exposure to risk. Even small scale or seasonal ventures need to be discussed with your broker, so your public liability cover remains fit for purpose.”
Incidents involving walkers on rights of way, livestock escaping onto roads or drivers injured while delivering to properties can all lead to claims, even where farmers have acted responsibly and taken sensible precautions.
“Where responsibility is alleged, public liability is the policy that responds,” said David. “That’s why it’s so important to take a step back and look at the business as a whole, rather than assuming an existing policy automatically covers everything.”
As farms head into one of the busiest times of the year, Spring is an ideal time to review insurance arrangements, said David. He advised farmers to work with their broker to ensure their insurance policy was an accurate reflection of their current business.
“It’s not just about having public liability insurance in place,” David added. “It’s about making sure it continues to protect the business as it evolves. A simple review now can help prevent costly issues later on.”
H&H Insurance Brokers operates across the North of England and the South of Scotland and specialises in agricultural and rural insurance. The firm also works with clients across a range of sectors including tourism and hospitality, property, forestry and construction.
As well as Carlisle, the firm has offices in Wigton, Kirkby Stephen, Hexham, Durham, Newtown St Boswells and Northallerton.