Septic Tank & Public Liability Insurance

Itllbefine

Warning - not to be read when eating lunch!
I share a private sewage system and septic tank with a handful of neighbours. We have no shared or communal land so the septic tank is on one of these neighbour's land. The owner of that land is concerned that if someone falls in the septic tank, that he could be sued. We have an informal Resident's Association, with a bank account, chairperson, secretary, etc and we meet periodically. Does anyone know if this informal kind of Resident's Association can take out public liability insurance? The other neighbours feel that the only way forward is to form a company. I would rather not form a company. Any thoughts appreciated.

forgotmyname

Wont it already be covered on the insurance of whoever owns the land the tank is situated on?

Blibble

forgotmyname wrote: »

Wont it already be covered on the insurance of whoever owns the land the tank is situated on?

Likely yes, but would it not be better if OP could get insurance between the residents to stop any potential loading to premiums for the septic tank holder?

FWIW, I haven't the foggiest if you could take out insurance as an informal residents' association - have you queried this whether any insurers or contacted a local broker to discuss?

rs65

Itllbefine wrote: »

Does anyone know if this informal kind of Resident's Association can take out public liability insurance? The other neighbours feel that the only way forward is to form a company. I would rather not form a company.

You could take out public liability, and probably D&O (management liability) insurance too. Just google residents association insurance.

Whether you need/want to incorporate is a separate issue.

System

Isn't it covered over? Surely it has a closable lid for access/emptying? Can't the lid have a padlock?
If only an authorised septic tank company can access it then they would have insurance for their employees?

forgotmyname

Residents could have an agreement to contribute a couple of £ a year to the property owner or an agreement to pay any additional costs arising from a claim.

As mentioned above if it has a properly secured lid and its in good condition and not weakening through age. Ensure the lid is locked and any risk of a claim will be very small.