Professional civil liability
Quote sheet
Frequently asked questions about professional liability insurance
Is professional liability insurance mandatory for all self-employed people?
No. French law only requires professional liability insurance for certain regulated professions (healthcare professionals, legal professions, the construction sector via the ten-year guarantee, real estate agents under the Hoguet law, among others). For a freelancer or consultant outside these regulated professions, there is no general legal requirement — professional liability insurance nonetheless remains strongly recommended and is often required contractually by clients.
Does the micro-entrepreneur status require specific insurance?
The micro-entrepreneur status itself does not require any particular insurance: the requirement depends on the nature of the activity, not the legal status chosen. Do not confuse URSSAF social security contributions, which fund social protection, with professional insurance — these are two separate things.
What does professional liability insurance actually cover?
It compensates third parties (clients, partners, suppliers) for material, physical, or financial damage caused by your professional activity: an error, omission, delay, or accident occurring in the course of your work.
What is the difference between professional liability and multi-risk business insurance?
Professional liability covers damage caused to third parties. Multi-risk business insurance covers your own assets (premises, equipment, stock) against fire, water damage, theft, or equipment breakage, and often includes an operating liability guarantee. The two are complementary, not interchangeable.
Can a landlord require insurance in a commercial lease?
Yes, but through a contractual clause in the lease, not a direct state obligation: under the Pinel law (article L145-40-2 of the French Commercial Code), this charge must be explicitly listed in the precise, exhaustive inventory attached to the lease, or it is deemed unwritten.
Does a freelancer working from home need professional insurance?
Generally yes: standard home insurance usually excludes professional activity and related equipment. Article L113-2 of the Insurance Code also requires policyholders to notify their insurer of any increase in risk, such as running a professional activity from home, within 15 days.