Do I Need Insurance for My Reptile Boarding Business?
I’ve been operating a small reptile boarding business from my home for a year now, and I’m a bit confused about whether I need insurance. Some people say it’s unnecessary, while others strongly recommend it.
To give you some context, I primarily care for pet reptiles and earn roughly £1,000 a year. I mostly offer this service to former customers of a shop where I worked until it closed due to COVID-19. On average, I might look after one or two reptiles each month—sometimes none at all.
I’m looking for advice on whether insurance is necessary for my situation and, if so, what type would be most appropriate. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
It’s great that you’re providing a boarding service for pet reptiles! While it may seem like you don’t need insurance since your income is relatively low, it’s still a good idea to consider it for several reasons:
Liability Insurance: This type of insurance can protect you from potential legal fees or claims if a pet were to get injured or cause harm while in your care. Even if you are only looking after one or two reptiles at a time, accidents can happen, and having liability coverage can give you peace of mind.
Property Insurance: Since you’re boarding reptiles in your home, you might want to consider property insurance to cover any potential damages or losses related to the animals in your care.
Animal Mortality or Care Insurance: This insurance can help cover the costs if a reptile were to fall ill or die while in your care, depending on the policy.
Professional Indemnity Insurance: While you may not be providing veterinary services, this type of insurance can protect you against claims of negligence or breach of duty, especially if someone feels you didn’t take proper care of their pet.
Even if your income is low, having insurance can protect you from unexpected costs that could arise from incidents or claims. It’s advisable to consult with a local insurance broker who understands the pet or animal care industry and can help you find the right coverage for your specific situation. Make sure to read the policy thoroughly and understand any limitations or exclusions.
Good luck with your business, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry!