If you employ a housekeeper or nanny in the UK you almost always need employer's liability insurance by law — here's when it applies and what it covers.

Do you need employer's liability insurance for a housekeeper in the UK?

Employer's liability insurance is a legal requirement for most household employers — when it applies and what it covers.

Quick answer: if you employ someone in your home in the UK, you are legally required to hold employer's liability insurance (Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969), with cover of at least £5 million. It covers claims if your employee is injured or falls ill because of their work. Fines can reach £2,500 a day for not having it.

When it's required

The duty applies once you employ someone — a housekeeper, nanny or carer working under your control. There's a narrow exemption for employing a close family member, but for a regular housekeeper you should assume it's required.

What it covers

Compensation if your employee is injured or made ill by their work.
Legal costs of defending a claim.
Often bundled into a home insurance policy — check yours before buying separately.

How to arrange it

Check whether your home insurance already includes employer's liability for domestic staff; if not, add it or take a standalone policy. Keep the certificate accessible.

Official sources

Conclusion

For a regular housekeeper, treat employer's liability insurance as compulsory. It's often already in your home policy — confirm the cover before the first day.

FAQ

Is employer's liability insurance a legal requirement?

For most household employers, yes — the 1969 Act requires cover of at least £5 million once you employ someone under your control, with a narrow exemption for close family.

Is it included in home insurance?

Often, yes. Many home policies include employer's liability for domestic staff — check yours before buying a separate policy.

What's the penalty for not having it?

Fines can reach £2,500 for each day you are uninsured when required to be.