If you are a hairdresser, or you run a hair salon, then you have probably noticed a rise in the cost of hairdresser insurance over the past few years.
In this post we will take a closer look at the issue, exploring some of the underlying causes and outlining how you can best protect yourself, and your customers, as a hairdresser.
How Much Is the Cost of Hairdresser Insurance Rising?
The cost of public liability insurance for hairdressers has almost doubled over a period of two years. In 2023, hairdressers were paying, on average, £47 a year for a public liability policy. By 2025, they were paying £93 for an annual policy. This means that the cost of cover increased by almost 100%.
In the same period, public liability insurance for hair salons decreased slightly, from an average of £230 a year in 2023, to £201 a year in 2025.
Do I Need Public Liability Insurance as a Hairdresser?
Public liability insurance is essential for hairdressers and salon owners. This will cover your customers, along with other members of the public, for any accidents or injuries that may happen as a result of your work, whether that is in a salon or elsewhere.
If a customer injures themselves on your premises, or if you cause an accident on your customer’s property, they may make a claim against you. In this case, your public liability insurance would cover your legal fees, along with any compensation payments that may arise.
What Is Causing The Rise in Hairdresser Insurance?
The Impact of Inflation
The rising cost of hairdresser insurance can largely be attributed to inflation, which has increased insurance costs for all businesses. The hair and beauty sector may have seen a higher rate of claims in recent years too, which will have contributed to rising premiums.
However, there is another important underlying cause at play.
The increasing prevalence of independent and freelance hairdressers
Independent hairdressers may work from their own premises, or they may rent a chair in a salon. Some may even do home visits. This creates a lot of potential for accidents and injuries: Slips, trips, and falls in a salon; spilled hair products in a client’s home; unattended hair straighteners leading to a fire; and so on.
Growing numbers of independent hairdressers means insurers may have to consider a much broader range of risks and, potentially, more frequent and costly insurance claims. This, unfortunately, will drive up the cost of cover for all hairdressers and salon owners.
How to Keep Yourself and Your Clients Safe
Effective risk management is vital for keeping you, your customers, and your premises safe, and comprehensive hairdresser insurance is an essential part of this.
Many businesses are currently struggling with rising costs, and increased insurance premiums certainly will not be helping.
Do Not Go Without Public Liability Insurance
However, no hairdresser or salon owner should go without public liability insurance. Accidents happen, and if they do, your liability insurance will help you meet all costs. Without this cover, you would be liable to meet these considerable expenses yourself.
Compare Quotes or Use an Independent Broker
If you are worried about the rising cost of cover, there may be some ways you can make savings. Be sure to compare quotes from multiple providers to ensure you are getting the best deal. Some insurers will also provide a discount if you get a combined policy, rather than a number of separate policies.
Working with a dedicated insurance broker can also make a huge difference. At James Hallam, we have helped hundreds of hairdressers and salon owners across the UK get the specialist insurance they need at a truly competitive price.