Key Changes to National Insurance in 2025/26

With these adjustments, businesses must prepare for increased costs and ensure payroll compliance. Here are the main updates:

• Employer NI Rate: Rising to 15% for earnings above £5,000 per year.
• Employee NI Rate: Typically remains at 12%, depending on category.
• Secondary Threshold: Lowered to £5,000 annually (£417 monthly).
• Example Impact: For a Category A employee earning £30,000 annually, the employer’s NI contribution will increase to approximately £3,749.

Understanding National Insurance Categories

Employers must correctly assign NI categories to their employees to ensure accurate deductions. Here’s a breakdown of the main NI classifications:

Most employees fall under Category A unless they meet specific criteria.

How Businesses Can Prepare

With payroll costs set to rise, businesses should plan ahead to manage expenses effectively. Employers can use tools like the National Insurance Calculator to estimate contributions and ensure compliance with the new tax framework.

Staying informed and preparing early will help businesses navigate these changes while maintaining financial stability.

The post UK Businesses Facing Rising National Insurance Costs from April 2025 appeared first on EMC UK.

What is Indemnity Insurance?

Indemnity insurance is a type of policy that protects against financial losses arising from legal defects or property-related issues. These defects may not be easily resolved but could pose risks in the future. Instead of rectifying the issue, indemnity insurance provides financial cover if the problem results in legal action or financial loss.

Why is Indemnity Insurance Needed in Property Transactions?

During property transactions, various legal or structural issues can arise. Some of the most common reasons for indemnity insurance include:

• Lack of Planning Permission: If extensions or modifications were made without formal approval.
• Missing Building Regulations Certificates: When past works lack necessary certification.
• Boundary Disputes: Issues regarding unclear property boundaries.
• Access Rights: When a property does not have formal access agreements.
• Restrictive Covenants: If a property is subject to restrictions that were previously breached.
• Chancel Repair Liability: Certain properties may still be subject to historic obligations to contribute to church repairs.

Instead of delaying the transaction to resolve these problems, indemnity insurance provides an immediate solution, ensuring a smooth sale.

How Indemnity Insurance Benefits Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers

• Protects against future financial claims related to legal defects.
• Ensures peace of mind when purchasing properties with unclear histories.
• Prevents delays in securing mortgage approval, as many lenders accept indemnity insurance as a safeguard.
• Covers unexpected legal costs that might arise due to hidden property risks.

For Sellers

• Makes properties more attractive to buyers by eliminating legal concerns.
• Helps prevent deals from falling through due to legal complications.
• Provides coverage for historical issues without the need for expensive legal resolutions.
• Helps speed up transactions, particularly when legal documentation is missing or incomplete.

Types of Indemnity Insurance Policies

Several indemnity insurance policies cater to different risks. Some of the most common include:

• No Building Regulations Indemnity – Covers properties where work was done without proper approvals.
• Planning Permission Indemnity – Protects against enforcement action due to missing permissions.
• Chancel Repair Indemnity – Covers the risk of property owners being liable for repairs to a church.
• Rights of Way Indemnity – Protects against access issues if public or private rights of way are unclear.
• Restrictive Covenant Indemnity – Covers potential breaches of restrictive covenants attached to the property.
• Environmental Risk Indemnity – Protects against liability for contaminated land remediation costs.
• Adverse Possession Indemnity – Covers the risk associated with properties where land ownership is disputed.

The Role of Estate Agents in Indemnity Insurance

Estate agents play a key role in advising buyers and sellers about indemnity insurance. They help identify risks that may require coverage and guide clients through the process. Ensuring compliance with estate agency regulations is essential when discussing indemnity insurance with clients.

As part of due diligence, estate agents should:

• Educate clients on potential legal risks that may necessitate indemnity insurance.
• Recommend legal experts who can advise on specific indemnity policies.
• Ensure buyers and sellers understand the terms and conditions of any indemnity insurance policy.
• Monitor transactions to identify red flags that might require indemnity coverage.

Indemnity Insurance Costs and Duration

Indemnity insurance is usually a one-time premium policy rather than an annual payment. The cost depends on factors such as:

• The type of risk covered.
• The value of the property.
• The level of coverage required.

Policies remain valid indefinitely and are transferred to future owners when the property is sold, offering long-term protection.

Typical Costs:

• Policies for minor issues like missing certificates can cost between £50 to £300.
• Policies for more significant risks, such as right of way disputes or planning permission issues, can cost between £500 and £5,000.
• High-value property risks could incur even higher premiums.

Professional Indemnity Insurance for Estate Agents

Apart from property transactions, estate agents themselves require protection. Professional indemnity insurance for estate agents covers legal costs and claims arising from professional negligence, misrepresentation, or errors in property listings. This type of insurance is crucial for ensuring compliance and protecting estate agents from financial liability.

Common claims covered include:

• Incorrect property valuations that mislead buyers or sellers.
• Failure to disclose important information about a property.
• Negligent advice resulting in financial loss for clients.

Common Misconceptions About Indemnity Insurance

Many buyers and sellers are unsure about how indemnity insurance works. Here are some key misconceptions:

• “It’s the same as home insurance.” Indemnity insurance only covers legal defects, not structural damages or home repairs.
• “It fixes the problem permanently.” It does not correct the issue; it only provides financial protection if problems arise.
• “It’s expensive.” While some policies can be costly, many indemnity insurance policies are affordable and offer long-term protection.
• “It’s mandatory.” While not legally required, many mortgage lenders insist on indemnity insurance before approving loans.

Case Studies: When Indemnity Insurance Saved the Day

Case Study 1: A Missing Building Regulations Certificate

A homeowner in London installed a new boiler without obtaining a building regulations certificate. When they decided to sell the property, the buyer’s solicitor raised concerns about this missing documentation. Instead of delaying the sale, the seller purchased an indemnity insurance policy for £150, which satisfied the buyer’s lender and ensured the sale went through smoothly.

Case Study 2: A Restrictive Covenant Dispute

A couple in Manchester purchased a home with an old restrictive covenant stating that no additional buildings could be constructed on the land. Years later, they planned an extension but feared legal action from neighbours. They secured indemnity insurance for £600, which protected them from potential legal costs in case of a dispute.

Final Thoughts

Indemnity insurance is a vital tool for both buyers and sellers. It ensures smooth transactions by mitigating legal risks that could otherwise delay or jeopardise sales. With estate agency regulations requiring due diligence, estate agents play a key role in helping clients understand indemnity policies. Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or agent, staying informed about professional indemnity insurance for estate agents and general indemnity policies will help you navigate the property market with confidence.

If you’re unsure whether indemnity insurance is necessary, consulting a legal expert or estate agent can provide clarity. A well-informed decision will protect you from unexpected legal issues and ensure a hassle-free property transaction.

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The Hartford will join Coalition’s network of capacity partners, taking on a quota share of Coalition’s UK cyber insurance program. This will strengthen Coalition’s ability to provide businesses with real-time support in managing evolving cyber threats. Known for its proactive approach to cyber insurance, Coalition combines insurance coverage with cyber risk mitigation tools designed to help businesses detect and prevent potential disruptions before they occur.

Speaking on the partnership, Carl Bach, Head of The Hartford’s International Business, highlighted the synergy between The Hartford’s established expertise in the U.S. cyber insurance sector and Coalition’s innovative Active Cyber Insurance model. “We continue to capitalize on the strengths of The Hartford and our London operations, securing new opportunities to meaningfully grow our international business and footprint,” he said. “Drawing on our deep expertise underwriting cyber in the U.S. market, we recognise the innovative model of active insurance that Coalition possesses, designed to help businesses identify and mitigate cyber risk before it becomes a disruption. We look forward to partnering with Coalition to serve more customers and brokers in the UK for years to come.”

Coalition’s Active Cyber Insurance model, which has garnered attention across several international markets, offers comprehensive protection paired with cybersecurity tools and automated cyber alerts. Through its platform, Coalition Control®, UK businesses can access risk management resources that include expert advice and third-party risk assessments. The model represents a departure from traditional cyber insurance, focusing on proactive risk management rather than reactive support following a cyber incident.

Shawn Ram, Coalition’s Head of Insurance, expressed enthusiasm for the new partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to have The Hartford join our panel of capacity partners and support our efforts to continue providing outstanding cyber coverage to our policyholders. Coalition continues to see robust interest in our innovative and profitable Active Insurance model in the UK, which has disrupted the standard approach to cyber insurance and offered businesses a way to manage their risk as it evolves.”

With the UK market experiencing a growing need for cyber risk solutions, Coalition’s Active Insurance model is expected to address a significant gap, offering businesses a more comprehensive method of managing cyber threats. The Hartford and Coalition hope their joint approach will help mitigate the financial impact of cyber incidents on UK businesses by offering preventive measures and expert guidance to address digital risks proactively.

Coalition, headquartered in San Francisco, was the first insurer to launch an Active Insurance model aimed at preventing cyber risks before they escalate. The company now operates in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Germany, working closely with global insurers and capacity providers. Coalition Risk Solutions Ltd., its UK branch, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to carry out insurance distribution activities.

The partnership marks a step forward for both The Hartford and Coalition in expanding the reach of proactive cyber risk management and represents a significant shift in the UK insurance market’s approach to tackling cyber threats.

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Why Sole Traders Face Higher Risks

One of the main reasons sole traders are more vulnerable than limited companies is because they don’t have the benefit of limited liability. For limited companies, liability is limited to the business itself, which means that the personal assets of the business owner are protected in the event of a claim or debt.

However, for sole traders, there is no distinction between personal and business assets. This means that if a claim is made against them or their business incurs debt, their personal finances and assets, such as their home, could be at risk.

Moreover, sole traders often operate with fewer resources, making them more susceptible to unexpected financial setbacks. For example, if a sole trader is sued or faces a significant claim, they may not have the funds to cover legal fees or compensation costs. This is where small business insurance can be a lifeline, as it can help cover these costs and prevent the business owner from facing financial ruin.

Essential Types of Insurance for Sole Traders

To protect themselves, sole traders should consider the following three key types of liability insurance:

1. Public Liability Insurance

Public liability insurance is crucial for sole traders who interact with clients or members of the public, whether at their premises, at the client’s location, or anywhere else. This insurance covers legal costs and compensation if a third party, such as a customer or supplier, is injured or their property is damaged as a result of the business’s activities. For instance, if a customer slips and falls while visiting a sole trader’s workshop, public liability insurance can help cover the cost of any resulting claim.

Without public liability insurance, a sole trader could be personally liable for any compensation and legal costs, which could have serious financial implications. This type of insurance is often a minimum requirement for businesses that deal with the public, making it an essential part of sole trader insurance.

2. Professional Indemnity Insurance

Professional indemnity insurance is essential for sole traders who provide advice, services, or expertise. This type of insurance covers claims made by clients who believe they have suffered financial loss due to the trader’s negligence, errors, or omissions. For example, if a sole trader gives advice that a client believes has caused them to lose money, professional indemnity insurance can cover the costs associated with defending the claim and any compensation awarded.

This coverage is particularly important for professionals such as consultants, designers, and tradespeople, where even a small mistake could lead to significant financial consequences for both the client and the sole trader.

3. Employers Liability Insurance

Although sole traders often work alone, they may still need sole trader employers’ liability insurance if they hire staff, even on a part-time or temporary basis. This insurance covers compensation costs and legal fees if an employee is injured or becomes ill due to their work. In the UK, employers liability insurance is a legal requirement for businesses that employ staff, and failure to have it could result in substantial fines.

Even if a sole trader only hires a single employee, such as an assistant or apprentice, they are legally required to have employers’ liability insurance. This ensures that employees are protected and that the sole trader is not left covering costly claims out of pocket.

Conclusion

For sole traders, insurance is not just a safety net – it’s a crucial part of protecting their business and personal assets. By investing in business insurance, they can protect themselves from a range of risks that could otherwise threaten their financial stability.

While insurance is often dismissed as an additional and unnecessary expense, it is a small price to pay for peace of mind and security in an unpredictable business environment. By safeguarding against potential claims, sole traders can focus on what they do best – growing their business and serving their clients.

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Understanding the Drawbacks of Public Healthcare

Waiting Times

One of the most commonly cited drawbacks of public healthcare systems is the issue of long waiting times. For non-urgent treatments and procedures, patients can face significant delays, sometimes stretching into months. This waiting period can be frustrating and stressful, especially when dealing with conditions that could benefit from timely intervention. For many, the prospect of waiting weeks or even months for a routine procedure is a major concern.

Access to Specialists

Accessing specialist care through public healthcare can also be a lengthy process. Patients often need a referral from their GP, and even after receiving the referral, there can be considerable delays in scheduling appointments with specialists. This process can be cumbersome, particularly for those with urgent or complex health issues. The time taken to navigate the referral system and wait for specialist consultations can impact the overall quality of care.

Benefits of Private Health Insurance

Reduced Waiting Times

One of the most significant advantages of private health insurance is the reduction in waiting times. Private insurance often allows for quicker access to medical services, meaning you can receive treatment or consultations much sooner than you might through public healthcare. This speed can be crucial for maintaining health and addressing issues before they become more serious, providing peace of mind and reducing the stress associated with long waits. Click on the link to find out how to renew health insurance, and you can get a quote for a new policy.

Direct Access to Specialists

With private health insurance, gaining access to specialists is generally more straightforward. Unlike the public system, where you may need to wait for a referral and then face additional delays, private insurance often allows you to see specialists directly. This means you can consult with experts in their field without unnecessary delays, ensuring you get the specialised care you need when you need it.

Enhanced Patient Experience

Private health insurance also offers an enhanced patient experience. Many private healthcare facilities provide improved amenities, such as private rooms, more comfortable surroundings, and higher levels of personalised care. These factors contribute to a more positive overall experience, from the initial consultation through to treatment and recovery. The focus on comfort and individualised care can make a significant difference in your healthcare journey.

Comparing Private Health Insurance to Public Healthcare

Public vs. Private

When comparing public and private healthcare systems, the differences in waiting times, access to specialists, and overall patient experience become clear. While public healthcare provides essential services, private insurance offers additional options and flexibility that can significantly enhance your healthcare experience.

Complementary Role

Private health insurance can complement public healthcare rather than replace it. By offering quicker access to care, more direct specialist consultations, and improved patient experiences, private insurance provides additional support and choices within the broader healthcare system.

What You Can Gain from Switching Health Insurance Providers

Lower Premiums

Are you starting to feel like the cost of health insurance is weighing you down? Undoubtedly, rising bills and expenses are taking their toll on everybody. It can feel like you work hard every month for all of your money to disappear. But, before you consider cancelling health insurance, know that the answer might be switching the provider. You don’t have to give up on health protections.

In particular, a health insurance quote can reveal lower premiums elsewhere. A provider might give you the same coverage but for a cheaper price. This can be a deal for a new customer, or they’re generally more affordable than larger companies. Either way, you benefit.

Better Customer Service

Do you feel like the health insurance provider you have discourages you from making a claim? There are companies out there that make it difficult for their customers to speak to a representative or make a claim after treatment. This isn’t something you should have to tolerate.

Instead, know that better customer service will exist with another provider. Their team will want to help you and give you the support you require to make a claim. So, explore your options and make sure you have a better experience.

Comforting Coverage

You always want to have a health insurance policy that gives you the best coverage. Then, you can enjoy peace of mind and know that you’re going to be covered if you need an appointment and treatment. Sometimes, you have to switch your providers to get a better deal. Being loyal doesn’t pay off anymore.

Conclusion

Private health insurance offers several key benefits, including reduced waiting times, direct access to specialists, and a more comprehensive and personalised approach to care. While it may come with a cost, the advantages often justify the investment for those seeking quicker and more tailored healthcare solutions. As you consider your own healthcare options, exploring private insurance could provide the added value you’re looking for.

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