Locum Veterinary Surgeon Insurance: What You Need to Know

October 24, 2025

If you work (or plan to work) as a locum veterinary surgeon, having the right insurance is essential. Below we explain what locum vet insurance is, why it matters, what kinds of policies exist, and address common questions you may have.

What is locum vet insurance?

Locum vet insurance is a type of professional cover designed to protect veterinary surgeons who work on a locum or freelance basis. It typically includes:

  • Professional indemnity (for claims of negligence or malpractice)
  • Public liability (injury to third parties or damage to property)
  • Employers’ liability (if you directly employ staff while locuming, though this is less common)
  • Personal accident / loss of earnings cover (optional in some policies)

Why is it important?

  • Legal & contractual requirements: Some practices require your own indemnity or proof of insurance before offering you shifts.
  • Risk protection: Even with perfect care, claims can arise. Insurance helps protect your personal assets and professional reputation.
  • Peace of mind: You can focus on clinical work without worrying about unforeseen legal or financial risks.
  • Flexibility to choose assignments: Having your own cover makes you more portable—you can accept locum roles in practices that stipulate independent insurance.

Types of cover & what to look for

When selecting insurance, consider:

  • The limits of indemnity (e.g. how much the insurer will pay out per claim and in aggregate).
  • Whether retroactive cover is included (for incidents before your policy start date).
  • Whether the policy includes court and defence costs.
  • Whether loss of earnings / personal accident is optional or built in.
  • Geographic scope (UK only? EU? Abroad?)
  • Exclusions, waiting periods, excesses, and whether practices you cover may be named additional insureds.

FAQs

Do I need insurance as a locum vet?

Yes — while you may sometimes be covered by the practice (if they explicitly commit), relying solely on practice-provided cover can be risky. Many practices require you to have your own indemnity or proof of cover. Having your own policy ensures you’re covered regardless of the practice’s insurance arrangements.

Can a locum vet have their own insurance?

Absolutely — in fact, many locum vets prefer to hold their own cover to maintain independence, flexibility and assurance that claims will be handled even if the practice’s cover is insufficient. You’ll need to shop for a policy tailored for freelance or locum clinical practice.

Other relevant topics to consider

  • Continuous cover vs annual policies: Some insurers offer ongoing indemnity so you don’t have gaps between assignments.
  • Grouped / group schemes: Some locum networks or professional bodies offer group rates or panel insurance options.
  • Regulatory body requirements: Always check that your insurer meets RCVS standards for indemnity cover.
  • Keeping thorough records: Good clinical records and protocols help you defend against complaints or claims.
  • Updating policy when scope changes: If you start doing new types of surgery, emergency work, or cover abroad, review and adjust your cover accordingly.

Ready to find locum vet roles?

Looking for locum veterinary work? Send your CV to info@medmatchvets.co.uk. If you want to learn more about what a locum vet is, click here.