A question that regularly arises from callers is "Do I need insurance for a party?" and while the answer is probably 'Yes' there are a raft of options that you may want to include depending on the size, location and type of party.
Your event insurer will be able to advise you but here are 4 areas you may want to cover.
Public Liability
This provides cover for your legal liability to pay damages, claimants costs and expenses which could arise as a result of your connection with the event.
Event equipment
As might be expected this provides cover for the loss or damage to equipment that you are responsible for during, and in association with the event.
Cancellation
Cancellation provides cover for your irrecoverable costs incurred as a result of the unavoidable cancellation, abandonment or postponement of the event for reasons beyond your control. You will need to be aware of the exclusions which may not include inclement weather and if working with suppliers be sure to have all booking arrangements confirmed in writing.
Adverse weather
Provides cover for costs incurred as a result of the unavoidable cancellation, abandonment or postponement of the event due to adverse weather conditions. But don't leave this insurance cover until the last minute, as most companies will only provide this a minimum of 14 days prior to the event date. So don't leave this until you see a terrible weather forecast a couple of days before the event.
Exclusions
All policies will have exclusions where claims cannot be made. There is usually a liability which can be anything from £100 to £500 for each claim. So it's important the read the insurance document carefully so you know what is and isn't covered.
Standard exclusions could include:
- Loss or damage caused by the defective erection, use or dismantlement of any staging, marquees or temporary structures.
- Damage, bodily injury, death, illness or disease of any person caused by or arising from a dangerous activity.
- Theft or attempted theft - unless there is evidence of violent, visible and forcible entry to the event.
- Loss or theft from unattended vehicles.
- Wilful or malicious acts or acts of vandalism.
- Claims directly or indirectly caused through war, terrorism, invasion, or civil war.
But remember, each event insurance policy will have it's own inclusions and exclusions so work with your event insurer and talk it through to get the police best for you.