Hired-In Plant Insurance (HIP) is required when hiring plant, tools, welfare units or portable toilets in the UK. It covers theft, damage or loss of hired equipment while it is in your care. Most hire companies require proof of valid HIP before delivery. This guide explains what HIP covers, why it is required, typical costs in 2025, and how contractors can arrange suitable insurance.
Introduction
If you’re hiring plant, tools, or site welfare units in the UK, you’ll almost always be asked for Hired-In Plant Insurance (HIP). It protects both you and the hire company against theft, damage, or loss of equipment while it is in your possession.
This guide explains what HIP is, why it matters, typical costs, and which UK insurers provide cover. We’ll also answer common questions contractors ask before taking out cover.
What Is Hired-In Plant Insurance?
Hired-In Plant Insurance covers the plant, machinery, or site welfare equipment you’ve hired from another company. If it’s stolen, damaged, or destroyed while you’re responsible, the policy pays for replacement or repair.
This applies whether you’re hiring:
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Welfare units or cabins.
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Portable site toilets.
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Excavators, dumpers, telehandlers.
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Generators, compressors, or power tools.
Why Do You Need HIP?
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Contractual requirement – most hire contracts state you’re responsible for loss or damage.
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Business continuity – without cover, replacing damaged plant can delay your project and leave sites without essential facilities.
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Financial protection – the cost of replacing hired plant often runs into tens of thousands.
At euroloo, all welfare facilities and toilet hire require proof of HIP before delivery.
Typical Costs of HIP
Costs vary depending on:
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Value of hired plant.
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Duration of hire.
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Type of equipment (toilets, welfare cabins, heavy plant).
Average guide: £40–£70 per £10,000 of cover for a short-term hire. Annual policies can range from £350–£750 depending on limits.
Hired-In Plant Insurance Providers Used by UK Contractors
If you don’t already have Hired-In Plant Insurance included within your contractors’ policy, the following insurers and brokers are commonly used by UK contractors hiring plant, welfare units, and site equipment.
Practical option for hired-in plant cover:
JCB Insurance (Hiremaster) provides short-term and annual Hired-In Plant Insurance designed specifically for contractors hiring plant, tools, and site welfare equipment. Cover can be arranged quickly online, making it a practical option where proof of insurance is required before delivery.
Contractors should always confirm policy limits and exclusions to ensure hired equipment is fully covered.
- AXA Insurance – cover for contractors and SMEs with add-ons for plant hire.
- Allianz – strong in construction plant and tool hire policies.
- Zurich – large-scale cover for contractors with multiple hires.
- Towergate Insurance – specialist broker with flexible policies for trades.
- Hiscox — flexible SME packages including plant cover.
- Howden Insurance Brokers – tailored packages for construction and infrastructure.
Each provider differs in limits, excesses, and exclusions, so always confirm what’s included.
FAQs on Hired-In Plant Insurance
Do I need Hired-In Plant Insurance for short-term hire?
Yes. Even if you hire equipment for a single day, you’re legally responsible for it during that time.
Is Hired-In Plant Insurance included in my business insurance?
Sometimes. Check your contractors’ all-risk (CAR) or public liability policy – HIP may be included, but limits are often too low for welfare units or heavy plant.
What happens if I don’t have HIP?
You may be refused delivery, or worse – liable for full replacement costs if plant is stolen or damaged.
Does HIP cover damage as well as theft?
Yes. Most policies cover accidental damage, fire, flood, and theft, but always check exclusions.
Can I add HIP for one-off hires?
Yes. Many brokers offer short-term or “per hire” policies.
Conclusion
Hired-In Plant Insurance protects you against the risks of theft or damage when hiring welfare units, plant, or tools. Without it, you could face delays, refused deliveries, and significant costs. At euroloo, we require proof of HIP before delivering toilets or ecowelfare units. By planning ahead and securing the right cover, you’ll ensure your projects run smoothly and stay compliant.
Need to arrange HIP quickly?
Some contractors choose short-term or annual Hired-In Plant Insurance that can be set up online before delivery. This can help avoid delays where proof of cover is required at short notice.
At euroloo, proof of valid Hired-In Plant Insurance is required before delivering welfare units or site facilities. Having appropriate cover arranged in advance helps avoid delays and keeps projects moving.
