In this post, we cover why an event insurance certificate is essential for every event.
What is an Event Insurance Certificate?
An event insurance certificate is an official paper from your insurance provider. This document confirms you have coverage for your event. It lists the types of coverage, such as general liability, property damage, or alcohol coverage, and it shows that the provider will cover certain risks during your event. Many times, you must show this certificate when you book a venue, get permits, or work with vendors.
Why You Need an Event Insurance Certificate
Protect Against Liability Claims
The main reason to have an event insurance certificate is to protect you against liability claims. If a guest is hurt or if there is property damage, you might be held to blame. Without this insurance, you might face high out-of-pocket costs that could hurt your finances.
Meet Venue and Local Rules
Many venues and local groups require a certificate before they allow an event. This certificate helps you meet those rules. It shows you take safety seriously and can help in working out contracts.
Coverage When You Must Cancel
Unexpected issues like bad weather, natural events, or a vendor not showing up can force you to cancel. Insurance for cancellations, often part of the certificate, can pay back your costs and lost income, easing your recovery.
Calm for Planners and Guests
Having a certificate gives you, the planner, calm knowing you are covered if the unexpected occurs. It also shows guests, sponsors, and partners that the event is managed responsibly and safely, boosting trust.
Types of Coverage Included in an Event Insurance Certificate
When you get an event insurance certificate, check for these types of coverage:
- General Liability: Covers injury or damage claims from the event.
- Liquor Liability: Guards against claims if alcohol is served.
- Property Damage: Covers harm to the venue or equipment.
- Event Cancellation: Pays back costs if the event is canceled due to surprises.
- Workers’ Compensation: Covers injuries to staff during set up, the event itself, or tear down.
- Automobile Liability: Applies if vehicles or transportation services are used.
- Equipment Insurance: Guards rented or owned equipment used at the event.
Depending on your event’s size and type, your certificate might include one or many of these.
How to Obtain an Event Insurance Certificate
Securing an event insurance certificate is a simple process:
- Review your event and list its risks. This list may include the number of guests, location, activities, and vendors.
- Compare pricing.
- Buy the policy online.
Make sure to check the certificate to confirm that it covers all you need.
Top Benefits of Having an Event Insurance Certificate
- Gives you legal and financial safety
- Meets venue and local safety rules
- Builds trust and shows good management
- Shields you from cancellations and breaks
- Covers claims when alcohol is part of the event
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What does an event insurance certificate cover?
A: This certificate lists the types of insurance in your policy, such as general liability, cancellation, property damage, and others. It shows that accidents or surprises during the event are covered.
Q2: Is an event insurance certificate needed for every event?
A: While not used by law for all events, many venues and local groups ask for one. Even if it is not required, having this certificate helps protect you from high costs later.
Q3: Can I get a certificate for just one event?
A: Yes, many providers have single-event policies that let you secure a certificate for one event without a long-term commitment.
Our Top Picks For Liability Coverage
Be sure to check your venue’s insurance requirements before securing a policy!
GatherGuard
Starts at $75 for $1M/$2M GL coverage
Min. Damage to rented premises limit: $250,000 (Upgrade to $1M for $25+)
Medical expense limit: Not included
Waiver of Subrogation Endorsement: No
Primary Noncontributory Endorsement: No
Free quote feature available
SpecialInsurance.com
Starts at $160 for $1M/$2M GL coverage
Min. Damage to rented premises limit: $300,000 (Upgrade to $1M for $75)
Medical expense limit: $5,000
Waiver of Subrogation Endorsement: Yes
Primary Noncontributory Endorsement: Yes
Free quote feature available
Coverage can extend beyond midnight depending on state liquor laws, in which case only 1 day of coverage is required