Planning an event takes a lot of work. But regardless of how much planning you put into it, there is always a possibility of things not going to plan. That’s why if you’re organising an event, having in place appropriate insurance should be high up on your to-do list to help make sure you’re not left out of pocket as a result of an unfortunate event. When it comes to events insurance, there are multiple types of cover available. To help you understand the different options, and make an informed choice, we’ve put together this guide…

Generally speaking, the term ‘Events Insurance’ can be used to refer to any insurance designed to cover an event against the financial losses of unexpected mishaps. There are several different types of insurance you may want to consider. If you are holding an event, taking out adequate insurance is a wise step in preventing your organisation suffering financial losses if something goes wrong. Sometimes, even a minor oversight can end up having serious implications.

For example, a simple mistake like placing a sign in an inappropriate space could lead to an attendee at your event suffering a serious injury and suing your organisation. Incidents like these often come with significant costs such as legal fees, and compensation. There’s also the likelihood of an external incident which might impact your event, such as a speaker or performer injuring themselves and not being able to attend. Having appropriate insurance can help make sure these types of occurrences don’t have a big impact on your organisation’s finances.

If you’re organising an event, there are several different types of insurances you may wish to consider, and they all cover different incidents. Here are some of the covers you may want to consider if you are planning an event:

Public liability insurance for events

Public Liability (PL) Insurance is one of the most fundamental insurances you may need to consider if you’re holding an event, regardless of the size, type or location. It is designed to provide cover if an attendee or any other third party suffers an injury or has their property damaged at your event. It can also provide cover if your organisation is held responsible for damage to the venue. Although many venues may hold their PL Insurance, they may still require that you hold your own PL insurance policy before allowing you to hire the venue.

Event cancellation insurance

Event Cancellation Insurance is a broad type of insurance which has multiple cover options. It can help protect your organisation if you experience an incident which impacts your event and causes you to incur out of pocket costs. Some of the incidents which may be covered include a severe weather event forcing you to cancel or relocate your event; a performer or key speaker not showing up; or attendees not showing up due to external factors (such as traffic or public transport delays).

Although there are several cover options available, not all covers will be available for all types of events. Cover may also be subject to eligibility criteria, and you may need to be able to demonstrate sound contingent plans before an insurer will agree to insure your event. For example, if your event is being held outdoors, an insurer may require that you have a back-up plan in the event of wet weather prior to offering cover for severe weather.

Equipment Insurance

No matter what type of event you’re hosting, if you’re using your own equipment at the event, then it is also wise to consider cover for your equipment. Equipment Insurance can help to cover the cost to repair or replace your equipment if they’re stolen, or damaged as a result of events like fire or storm.

Examples of equipment which can be insured under Equipment Insurance includes musical instruments, PA systems, speakers, DJ equipment, band and performance equipment; mixing desks, lighting, speakers, PA systems, microphones, cables and associated sound and lighting equipment; cameras, lenses, tripods, camera equipment, and associated photography, film & TV equipment. If you insure your equipment through Aon, you may also have the option to cover your equipment whilst they are in transit, as well as if you take them overseas (subject to territorial limits).

Events Insurance arranged by Aon

Aon can arrange insurance for a variety of events. Our specialist brokers have a deep understanding of insurance as well as the risks event organisers may face in their work, and can arrange insurance that has been designed for the needs of your industry. To chat to the team, Call 1800 810 282, or fill out our online form.