When a client hands you a contract that asks for a certificate of currency, it’s usually because they want proof you hold public liability insurance before you step onto their site. It’s a standard request, and it’s your cue to understand exactly what that policy covers and what your business might need.

This article breaks down the core protections of public liability insurance for tradespeople, walks through common limits, and helps you think about the amount that fits your work. It doesn’t act as personal advice, but it gives you a solid starting point so you can have an informed conversation with an insurance broker or authorised representative.

What does public liability insurance actually cover?

At its simplest, public liability insurance covers your legal liability for personal injury or property damage you cause to someone else while working. That means if a customer trips over your tool bag and breaks an arm, or you accidentally put a ladder through a client’s window, your policy can step in.

Cover typically extends to:

  • Injury to a third party (like a client, visitor, or passer-by)
  • Damage to their property
  • Legal and defence costs associated with a covered claim

It does not cover injury to you or your own employees — that falls under workers compensation. It also doesn’t cover damage to your own tools or faulty workmanship that you need to redo at your own expense. Those are separate covers a broker can help you explore.

Why clients ask for a certificate of currency

A certificate of currency is simply a document from your insurer that confirms your policy is active, lists the type of cover, the limit, and the expiry date. Clients, principal contractors, or shopping centre management often require it before you can start work. It’s their way of making sure if something goes wrong that involves them or their property, there’s an insurance policy in place to handle it.

This isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. Without it, you risk losing the job — or breaching your contract. Keeping your certificate up to date and knowing how to get a copy quickly keeps your business moving.

How much cover do you need?

There is no single number that fits every trade. Common public liability limits for Australian tradespeople include $5 million, $10 million and $20 million. The right amount depends on your situation:

  • Contract requirements. Many commercial clients, builders, or government contracts require a $20 million limit. Check what the contract says — that’s your minimum.
  • The nature of your work. If you do high-risk work — like roofing, demolition, or working at height near valuables — the potential cost of damage is higher. A higher limit can provide more protection.
  • Where you work. If you’re on large commercial sites or public spaces like schools or hospitals, the consequences of an accident can be much larger than on a small residential job.
  • Your assets and income. Consider what you could afford to pay if a claim exceeded your cover. The gap between a $5 million policy and a $20 million policy can save a small business from financial ruin.

Government resources such as business.gov.au highlight that choosing the right insurance is a key part of protecting your business and managing risk. NSW Fair Trading also reminds business owners that insurance should be part of your overall business compliance and planning.

Next steps for your trade business

Start by reviewing the contracts you typically sign, noting any minimum cover they demand. Then have a conversation with a qualified insurance broker or authorised representative who can look at your specific circumstances — your trade, your turnover, the type of jobs you take on — and help you settle on a limit that balances protection with budget.

If you’re not sure where to begin, TradieCover can help connect you with authorised assistance. Get in touch to ask a question or submit an enquiry, and we’ll point you in the right direction. Remember, TradieCover provides general business insurance information only. We’re not an insurer, underwriter or insurance broker. We don’t promise a premium, a specific cover outcome, or a successful claim. The information here is general in nature, and for advice tailored to your business, you should always talk to a licensed professional.