When You’re the Business, You Can’t Afford to Be Out of Action

Most tradies know their tools are valuable. But what about the person using them?

Take Steve, a self-employed electrician in his mid-40s. One misstep on a ladder left him with a fractured hip and weeks off the tools. No work, no income, and no sick leave to soften the blow. It’s a scenario more common than one would think.

And it’s exactly why Hutch built Individual Personal Accident & Illness cover (IPA) into the Trade Pack.

Income stops, but bills don't

When injury or illness strikes, many sole traders and business owners find themselves in a financial freefall. With no workers comp or employer safety net, even a short stint off work can unravel cashflow, contracts, and client relationships.

Tradies often insure their liability, their tools and even their bobcat. But they forget to protect their most essential asset: themselves.

Weekly benefits and lump sum support

Hutch’s Individual Personal Accident & Illness cover is designed for self-employed professionals and small business owners who depend on their physical ability to generate income. It’s available under the Trade Pack as an optional section brokers can tailor to suit each client.

Available cover types:

• Injury only
• Injury and Illness

Benefits include:

• Weekly income replacement, up to $1,500 for up to 104 weeks
• Lump sum benefits for permanent disablement, paraplegia, or accidental death
• Optional extensions for amateur football, motorcycling, and waterskiing
• Funeral costs, rehabilitation, home modification, and even unused memberships included as standard within Hutch Trade Pack Insurance.

Cover can be adjusted to suit the client's risk comfort. Brokers can choose benefit levels and cover types that reflect the client’s actual earning reliance.

Workers Comp vs IPA: What’s the difference?

It’s a common question. And an important one.

Workers’ Compensation typically only applies to employees and varies between states and territories. Hutch’s Individual Personal Accident & Illness cover is for business owners or directors, who often fall outside of workers’ comp altogether.

Standard income protection policies are another option but can be costly. IPA cover through Hutch offers:

• Fixed benefit options
• Simpler setup with the rest of the Trade Pack
• Shorter underwriting process for faster quoting

Real-world scenario

A Brisbane-based tiler in his 30s recently took out Hutch Trade Pack with Personal Accident cover. A back injury took him off-site for seven weeks. With weekly benefits of $1,500 built into his policy, he was able to cover his mortgage, and keep the business going, without dipping into personal savings.

Common questions from clients

Is this tax-deductible?
In many cases, yes. Brokers should confirm with the client’s accountant.

What waiting periods are available?
The standard waiting period is 14 days.

Can I get cover just for injury?
Yes. Injury-only policies are available.

Built for brokers. Backed by Lloyd’s and other insurers.

Like every section in the Hutch Trade Pack, this cover is quoted and bound via Ebix Sunrise Exchange. It’s fully integrated, meaning no separate forms or second policies.

Faster quoting. Smarter packs. Fewer headaches.

Final word: Don’t forget the person holding the tools

So next time a client asks about cover for their gear, don’t forget to ask:
What’s protecting you?

Want to learn more?
Explore the full Trade Pack or speak with our underwriting team to quote personal accident cover that fits.