Picture this:
You’re a scaffolding subcontractor in Australia.
You balance on temporary structures, often at dizzying heights, surrounded by heavy tools and materials.
A single misstep or unsecured bolt can endanger not only your physical safety but also your entire livelihood.Â

Scaffolding is a high-risk trade.
That’s why having the right Scaffolding Insurance isn’t just paperwork for you.
It can be your solid backup plan when things go wrong.Â
But how can you tailor it to your advantage as a subcontractor?
Let’s explore key ways that are potentially available to you and face your unique risks to keep your enterprise running smoothly.Â
Public Liability Insurance is Your Foundation

Cover your scaffolding business from accidents with Public Liability Insurance.
Public Liability Insurance is the core coverage of any scaffolding subcontractor’s insurance plan.Â
Why?
Because accidents happen, and when they do, they can hit you hard.Â
A scaffold collapsing or a tool falling on a passerby can lead to injury or property damage, and the costs can spiral fast.
According to Safe Work Australia, 76% of workplace deaths and 61% of serious workers' compensation claims come from six industries including construction with over 16,000 serious claims in 2022 to 2023.Â
How does it cover you?: Public Liability Insurance covers property damage or personal injury your work caused to someone else. For instance, if a scaffold damages a client’s building, this policy can help protect you.Â
Why is it important to you?: Although it’s not legally mandated in all states and territories, most clients and head contractors require that you get Public Liability Insurance first before you start working.Â
How can you get reliable help?: Talk to an insurance broker. They can assist you in choosing the right coverage levels based on your project size and risk exposure.Â
Add Personal Accident Insurance for Income Protection
Scaffolding subcontractors often work as sole traders or small teams, meaning an injury or damage can grind your income to a halt.Â

Don’t let an injury derail your scaffolding business, consider getting Personal Accident Insurance.
Unlike regular employees, you don’t get sick leave or workers’ compensation in many cases.Â
That’s where Personal Accident Insurance can be useful to you.Â
How?
It replaces a portion of your income.
Some policies even include lump-sum payments for permanent disability or accidental death.
In Australia, scaffolding accidents are the usual cause of worksite injuries.Â
A fall, equipment mishap, or illness, whether it happens on the job or off-site, can leave you out of work for weeks or months, with bills piling up.Â
But with Personal Accident Insurance, you can reduce your losses and focus on recovery.
Pro Tip: Assess your income, age, and occupation to find a policy that fits. You can opt for coverage that balances affordability with adequate protection, ensuring you’re not left hanging after an unexpected setback.
Protect Your Assets with Tools and Equipment Coverage

Don’t forget to cover your scaffolding tools and equipment.Â
Your tools and scaffolding gear are at the heart of your business.
Losing them to theft, damage, or accidents can stop your work.
If you opt to replace your gear out of pocket, it can cost you thousands, particularly for specialised equipment.
By adding Tools and Equipment coverage to your Scaffolding Insurance package, you can keep your business going.Â
It protects portable equipment like power tools, scaffolding components, and even stock from loss or damage.
But how do you go about this?
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- You can work with an insurance broker and list your key assets and their value, ensuring your policy reflects what you actually use.
- Monthly payment options can also make this coverage more manageable for small businesses.
Get Started Today
Customising your Scaffolding Insurance can be complex and risky.
However, you don’t have to do it alone.
At Tank Insurance, we can be your partners in finding the right Scaffolding Insurance suited to the unique risks you face.
We can give you expert advice to help you compare quotes.
We can also explain the fine print and ensure your policy matches your risks as a scaffolding subcontractor.
Contact us today or visit our website for more details.Â
Let’s build a policy that best prepares your scaffolding business so it doesn’t get derailed by the risks of the trade.