Professional indemnity insurance is a cornerstone of consumer protection in the notarial profession. It ensures that if something goes wrong — if a notary makes an error that causes you financial loss — you have recourse to compensation. Here is how the insurance framework works for notaries in Ireland.
Mandatory Insurance
All notaries public in Ireland must maintain professional indemnity (PI) insurance. Since Irish notaries are also solicitors, they are subject to the Law Society of Ireland’s mandatory PI insurance scheme. This scheme sets minimum levels of coverage that all solicitors (and therefore all notaries) must carry.
What PI Insurance Covers
Professional indemnity insurance covers claims arising from:
- Negligence: Errors or omissions in the notary’s professional work
- Incorrect notarisation: Notarising a document improperly, leading to rejection abroad
- Identity verification failures: If the notary fails to properly verify a signatory’s identity
- Breach of duty: Failing to meet professional obligations
- Errors in notarial certificates: Mistakes in the notarial certificate that cause delays or financial loss
The Solicitors’ PI Insurance Scheme
The Law Society operates a mandatory PI insurance scheme for all practising solicitors. Key features:
- Minimum coverage levels are set by Law Society regulations
- All firms must obtain qualifying insurance from approved insurers
- Coverage must be in place before a practising certificate is issued
- The scheme is reviewed and updated regularly
Additional Notarial Coverage
Many notaries carry additional insurance specifically for their notarial work. This is because notarial acts have international implications — an error on a notarised document used in a foreign property transaction could result in significant financial loss.
The Solicitors’ Compensation Fund
In addition to PI insurance, the Law Society maintains a Compensation Fund. This fund provides a safety net for clients who suffer loss due to a solicitor’s dishonesty. While PI insurance covers negligence, the Compensation Fund covers fraud and misappropriation.
If Something Goes Wrong
If you believe you have suffered a loss due to a notary’s error:
- Raise the matter with the notary directly — many issues can be resolved quickly
- If unresolved, contact the Law Society of Ireland or the LSRA
- The notary’s PI insurer will handle the claim if liability is established
- The Compensation Fund may apply if the loss was due to dishonesty
Why Insurance Matters to You
When choosing a notary, insurance provides important protections:
- You know there is financial backing if an error occurs
- The notary is accountable to their insurer as well as their regulatory bodies
- The insurance requirement means only properly qualified, vetted professionals can practise
- It demonstrates the notary’s commitment to professional standards
Frequently Asked Questions
Do notaries public in Ireland need insurance?
Yes. They must maintain professional indemnity insurance under the solicitors’ mandatory scheme, and many carry additional notarial coverage.
What does notary insurance cover?
Claims arising from negligence, errors, or omissions — including incorrect notarisation, identity verification failures, and certificate errors.
Can I claim against a notary’s insurance?
Yes, if you’ve suffered financial loss due to negligence. Raise it with the notary first, then the Law Society or LSRA if unresolved.
How much insurance must a notary carry?
Minimum levels are set by Law Society regulations and reviewed periodically. Many notaries carry coverage above the minimum.
A Fully Insured Notary in Cork
Hugh Phelan, Solicitor and Notary Public, practises from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. He maintains full professional indemnity insurance as required by law.
Contact: 021-489-7134 or info@phelansolicitors.com.
Need an Insured, Qualified Notary in Cork?
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor & Notary Public appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland.
Notary Public Cork — Book Now📞 +353-21-489-7134 · East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork