Top Tips – What to Consider When Insuring Your Care Home: A Buyer's Perspective

Running a care home comes with its own set of unique challenges, and ensuring you have the right insurance in place is essential. The care sector faces a range of risks, and choosing the right cover can protect your business, staff, and residents. At Quality Care Group, we specialise in providing tailored insurance solutions for care homes. Here are my top tips to consider when purchasing a policy. 

1. Assess the Specific Needs of Your Care Home 

Care homes vary widely in the type of care they provide, the number of residents they house, and the risks they face. Whether your facility provides elderly care, supports individuals with disabilities, or specialises in dementia care, it’s important to choose an insurance policy that reflects your specific situation. Work with a provider who understands the intricacies of your care home. 

2. Ensure Comprehensive Liability Coverage 

Liability cover is one of the most critical aspects of your care home insurance. Public liability, employer’s liability, and professional indemnity are all essential elements. These cover claims relate to resident injuries, staff accidents, or allegations of neglect. Make sure your policy provides sufficient limits and addresses the specific risks your care home may face. 

3. Consider Property and Equipment Cover 

Care homes rely on specialised equipment, such as medical beds and hoists, which can be expensive to replace if damaged or stolen. When purchasing insurance, ensure your policy covers these items, as well as the building itself. This is especially important if your care home operates from a purpose-built facility with extensive safety features. 

4. Look for Policies Offering Risk Management Support 

Insurance is not just about responding to claims—it’s about preventing them. Quality insurance providers, like Quality Care Group, offer additional services such as risk assessments and health and safety audits to help care homes minimise risks. Risk management can reduce the chance of incidents and may also lead to lower premiums in the long term. 

5. Know What’s Excluded from Your Policy 

While it’s important to understand what your policy covers, it’s equally critical to know what isn’t included. Some policies may have exclusions, such as certain types of negligence claims. Don’t assume that every aspect of your care home’s risks is automatically covered—read the fine print or ask your provider to explain in detail. Being aware of exclusions will help you make more informed decisions. 

6. Ensure Efficient Claims Handling 

In the event that something does go wrong, having a responsive insurance provider is crucial. When evaluating policies, ask about the claims process. How quickly can you expect a response? What kind of support will you receive during a claim? Choose a provider with a reputation for efficient and supportive claims handling, so you’re not left without help when you need it most. 

7. Use a Specialist Broker 

Care businesses face unique and complex risks, from safeguarding vulnerable residents to managing regulatory compliance and addressing liability concerns. Working with a specialist insurance broker ensures that your cover is tailored to these specific challenges. A specialist broker understands the nuances of the care sector, including evolving legislation, health and safety requirements, and emerging risks such as cyber threats. This expertise allows them to provide comprehensive advice, identify gaps in existing policies, and offer customised solutions that standard insurers might overlook. By partnering with a knowledgeable broker, care businesses can achieve greater peace of mind, knowing they are adequately protected and supported by professionals who truly understand their needs. 

Choosing the right insurance for your care home is about more than just ticking boxes—it’s about safeguarding your business, your staff, and your residents. By taking the time to find the right provider and policy, you’ll have the peace of mind that you’re protected against unexpected risks. At Quality Care Group, we’re dedicated to helping care homes like yours stay secure, with comprehensive cover tailored to your needs.