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Do I need Public Liability Insurance?
By Adam Bennett
Public Liability Insurance protects musicians and entertainers if a claim is made against them in the unlikely event that something goes wrong at a public event or performance. Promoters and those who arrange events and gigs, as they are the ones most likely to be held liable if accidents such as this occur, frequently use it. For the insurance to be valid the professional using the insurance must be able to perform what they’re being hired for. If they do not prove to be capable, they can still be sued if something goes wrong!
Public Liability Insurance covers you against injury to a third party and/or damage to their possessions. Depending on the types and size of the events they perform, most musicians need different levels of cover within their Public Liability Insurance. Most insurance companies offer bespoke policies for musicians ensuring they're suitably covered for what they're doing. Nowadays it is common for venues to check with musicians that they have their own liability insurance. They have a right to cancel any performances booked if musicians do not hold valid Public Liability Insurance. If you're looking to be hired for private functions, Weddings or Corporate Events it's vital that you have Public Liability Insurance! Booking agencies will not book bands or musicians without it as it could lead to the company being sued! I can't underestimate the importance of health and safety at gigs/public events! All too often, it's a subject that everybody over looks and accidents happen that could have been avoided. All cables and leads should be taped down with heavy-duty masking tape; all electrical equipment PAT Tested and a sound limiter should be fitted into most venues. Venues often have risk assessments in place for gigs and live performances so if you're in doubt about anything, ask them. As you would expect, Public Liability Insurance is not cheap. The standard price most musicians pay is around £200 per year. Obviously, the price fluctuates depending on what sort of gigs and events you are doing; your insurance broker will provide you with the right insurance for your needs. You should always check that your policy covers you for the gig that you will be playing. Groups and organisations such as the Musicians Union will give a special rate for Public Liability Insurance to their members. The MU has many helpful tips and advice for any musician, and most professional musicians are members. Musical instruments are not covered by your public liability insurance. It is possible however to take out ‘musicians insurance’ where an insurance company will give you a tailor made policy that covers your instruments, in the event that they are damaged or stolen. Depending on your home insurance policy, your instruments may be covered. But don’t assume that they are. There are countless tales of touring musicians who leave their precious instruments behind, safely locked in their house. Only to return and find that it has been stolen and their insurance will not cover it. Always read the small print, or be prepared for a big shock if something goes wrong! Public Liability insurance is a must for any musician who performs in public. It will save you from spending potentially thousands in legal fees if something goes wrong that was your fault. Especially in a day and age where everybody is suing everyone else, it’s vital you have the correct cover.
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Contributor's Note
Note: This is the variation of an article I have written for www.lastminutemusicians.com. I have written both articles.
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PLEASE VISIT THE CONTRIBUTOR'S WEBSITE
Bands for Hire
UK's leading Entertainment Directory
www.lastminutemusicians.com
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As a musician myself I wholeheartedly endorse this intel. A bit of insurance now could save you a fortune later.
Of course, being able to perform what they’re being hired for is a good idea too!
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