Sole trader insurance myths, debunked

The life of a sole trader can be a thrilling adventure of independence and self-reliance. However, this journey to carve your unique career path is also riddled with confusion and misconceptions, especially when it comes to insuring your solo venture.

In this article, we’re setting the record straight as we debunk insurance myths for sole traders. Get ready to uncover the truths that will empower you to confidently protect your business.

Myth 1 – Sole traders are too small for business insurance

As a sole trader, you might think, “I’m just one person, do I really need business insurance?”

The idea that sole traders are too small to need business insurance overlooks a somber reality – Risk doesn’t discriminate based on business size.

Suppose you’re a tradie working on a client’s property and accidentally burst a pipe. Without Public Liability Insurance, you’d be held responsible for the repair costs – all out of pocket.

This is where business insurance steps in as an important line of financial protection. For sole traders, having the right business insurance is like having an umbrella on a cloudy day – it’s better to have it and not need it. Sole traders should also keep in mind that business insurance might be a mandatory requirement to operate, so it’s important to check your government and local requirements.

Myth 2 – Only registered companies need business insurance

Many sole traders may fall into the trap of thinking business insurance is a luxury reserved for larger, registered companies. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.

As a sole trader, you are your business. Sole traders often interact with clients, store sensitive data, and provide advice. Operating without insurance can jeopardise your personal finances if you ever face a claim. A single data breach executed by a hacker, or a consultation gone wrong could result in serious financial and legal challenges.

For the examples above, having the right business insurance, such as Professional Indemnity or Cyber Liability, ensures such setbacks don’t spell the end of your business journey. It’s a smart business move that offers peace of mind as you focus on growing your venture.

Myth 3 – I work from home, so I don’t need business insurance

No physical office, no need for business insurance, right?

Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Running your business from the comfort of your home might feel like working in a safety bubble, but it doesn’t mean you’re immune to business risks.

For example, what if your client visits your home for a meeting and trips over a rug or a misplaced object? Or imagine your computer gets hacked through your home network. These aren’t far-fetched scenarios. However, they can result in financial nightmares you wouldn’t want to face without business insurance. Your policy can provide protection for financial loses and legal costs you would face in the event of a claim.

Myth 4 – Business insurance is too expensive

The thought of adding yet another item to your expenses can easily deter many sole traders from business insurance. However, when weighed against the potential costs you need to pay for unforeseen events, the expense of having insurance often pales in comparison.

BizCover understands the financial constraints of small businesses. That’s why our insurance solutions are designed to be affordable, even for sole traders. Think of it as a small price to pay for the security and continuity of your livelihood.

Not only do we offer budget-friendly insurance options, BizCover streamlines the process for busy sole traders as well. Within minutes, you can get multiple insurance quotes from selected leading Australian insurers, and find a policy that suits your unique business needs. Best of all, our process is completely online. You can get covered instantly, while saving hours poring over mountains of paperwork.

Choose BizCover as your trusted partner on your sole trader journey and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with no-drama insurance.