Does my band need insurance?

Subject: Does my band need insurance?
From: GUEST,Mark
Date: 23 Oct 00 - 01:31 PM

Greetings Mudcatters!

My celtic band has been performing at medium-sized festivals (3,000-8,000 in attendance) all over the U.S. for the past five years.

Up until now we have never been asked to provide insurance, but we just received a contract that asks for $1,000,000 in comprehensive general liability insurance. This seemed like a lot to ask...but, in your experience, will this be standard for other, larger venues as well?

If this is something that we wil be needing, then where do you recommend looking into this? Also, any other options around insuring at all? We definitely prefer not to.

Thanks in advance,

Mark

Subject: RE: Does my band need insurance?
From: Bert
Date: 23 Oct 00 - 01:39 PM

Mark, you might be able to add that coverage to your homeowners insurance for a small increase in premium. It could prove worthwhile as it could cover you for other claims as well.

Subject: RE: Does my band need insurance?
From: paddymac
Date: 23 Oct 00 - 04:31 PM

Mark - I think you have answered your own question. If this is the first time you've been asked to provide such coverage, and you've been on the circuit for five years, it doesn't appear that it is "commonly" considered necessary or appropriate. Generally, such requirements are designed to do two things: (a) protect the venue from litigation BY you, and (b) give the venue a deep pocket to pursue if they decide for some reason to sue you. Unless you're a rock band with pyrotechnics and you regularly incite your audiences to trash the venue, I'd tell 'em to kiss off and book myself elsewhere.

Subject: RE: Does my band need insurance?
From: MK
Date: 23 Oct 00 - 05:32 PM

There are things to consider Mark...and you'll have to decide if and when they are applicable to your band situation.

First and foremost, insurance for yours (and other band members) instruments, sound system, amps, stage gear, etc...is almost a necessity regarding thefts, especically if any of the equipment is going to be left unattended at a venue, or in a vehicle. Even if people are around at the venue there's no guarantee someone "on the inside" isn't going to abscond with something. (Happened to me years ago at a hotel club that I was assured was under lock and key. Got to the gig that night and our entire p.a. system was gone as well as a couple of synths.)

Secondly, if you are using your own sound equipment (speakers) and some drunk wanders into them, and they fall on him (snd injure or even kill him), like it or not your band is liable. Never underestimate the stupidity of certain audience members where alcohol or drugs may be prevalent.

As someone else mentioned earlier, you may be able to get a rider for liablilty and theft coverage added on to your existing home owner's insurance, or there are some companies that will write you a separate policy. Obviously if you can get it tacked onto your homeowner's insurance it will be cheaper. You can also purchaser special liability insurance for a daily, weekly or monthly rate. You'll have to investigate.

Subject: RE: Does my band need insurance?
From: Bugsy
Date: 23 Oct 00 - 08:28 PM

I thought it was the duty of the promoter or the venue to provide the general liability insurance.

CHeers

Bugsy

Subject: RE: Does my band need insurance?
From: GUEST,Mark
Date: 23 Oct 00 - 10:07 PM

Thanks for the answers! We were taken by surprise when we were asked to procure such an extensive amount of liability insurance.

Mark

Subject: RE: Does my band need insurance?
From: Bob Bolton
Date: 23 Oct 00 - 10:18 PM

G'day Mark,

I was surprised that the amount mentioned was so low. Here in Australia, events organisers (non-folkie) regularly asked for $5,000,000 in Public Liability coverage. Fortunately, if you are not involved in dangerous activities, the cost is rarely more than a few hundred dollars per annum.

Regards,

Bob Bolton