What cover limit does a NZ small business need?

$2M is the most commonly selected limit for NZ small businesses. $1M covers low-foot-traffic sole traders. $5M+ is typical for retail, hospitality, government contracts, and commercial leases requiring higher limits.

Is the cheap policy the right one?

Cheap premiums usually mean a higher excess and a narrower cover scope. Compare excesses, sub-limits, and exclusions — not just headline monthly cost.

All answers / Public liability cost

How much does public liability insurance cost for a small business in NZ?

Q: How much does public liability insurance cost for a small business in NZ?

Indicative cost is $15–$60/month for a NZ small business. Tradies typically pay $15–$40/month, retail shops $20–$50, hospitality $25–$60, cleaners $12–$30, event organisers $30–$80. Premiums depend on industry, revenue, cover limit, claims history, and number of employees.

Q: What changes the price?

Six factors drive premium: industry risk level, annual revenue, number of employees, cover limit ($1M–$20M), claims history, and excess (deductible) chosen.

Public liability insurance for a NZ small business costs $15–$60 per month indicative. Tradies typically pay $15–$40, retail $20–$50, hospitality $25–$60, cleaners $12–$30, and event organisers $30–$80. Final premium depends on your industry, annual revenue, employee count, cover limit ($1M–$20M), and claims history.

Indicative monthly cost by industry

Industry	Indicative cost	Typical limit
Tradies (builders, plumbers, electricians)	$15–$40/month	$1M–$2M
Retail shops	$20–$50/month	$1M–$5M
Consultants and office-based	$15–$35/month	$1M–$2M
Cafes, restaurants, bars	$25–$60/month	$2M–$10M
Cleaners	$12–$30/month	$1M–$2M
Personal trainers / fitness	$15–$35/month	$1M–$2M
Event organisers	$30–$80/month	$5M–$10M

Prices shown are indicative. Get a quote for your specific business.

What changes the price

Industry and risk: A roofer pays more than an office consultant.
Annual revenue: Higher revenue means greater exposure and higher premium.
Number of employees: More staff, more potential incidents.
Cover limit: A $5M policy costs more than a $1M policy.
Claims history: Previous claims may push the premium up.
Excess: A higher excess (deductible) reduces premium but means more out-of-pocket per claim.

Read the full guide

For a deeper breakdown — cover scope, ACC interaction, cover-limit selection and claims process — see the full Public Liability Insurance NZ guide or the dedicated cost breakdown page.

Get your free quote

Compare public liability quotes through Evolve Group Limited (FSP711891). Business-insurance enquiries are referred to Blanket Advice Limited (FSP1004126).

Get Free Quotes