Public Liability Insurance Explained: What Every Set Carpenter Should Know
Public liability insurance might not be the most exciting topic in the world, but for set carpenters, it's an essential part of working professionally in the live events industry.
Whether you're building stages for festivals, concert tours, or corporate events, having the right insurance can protect you, your reputation, and your finances.
In many cases it is even a mandatory requirement before you are able to set foot on the tour. Without it you could lose lots of work every year.
This blog will break down what public liability insurance is, why it’s important, and what you need to consider when getting covered.
What Is Public Liability Insurance?
At its core, public liability insurance protects you against claims made by third parties for injuries or damages that occur as a result of your work. As a set carpenter, your job involves heavy equipment, sharp tools, and large builds, which naturally come with risks.
For example, if someone trips over a piece of unsecured staging you’re responsible for, or a piece of equipment accidentally damages venue property, public liability insurance ensures you’re not personally footing the bill for any claims made against you.
Why Is It Important for Set Carpenters?
In the live events industry, accidents can happen despite the best precautions. Here’s why public liability insurance is a must-have for set carpenters:
Protects You Financially: Claims for damages or injuries can cost thousands of pounds. Insurance prevents you from paying these costs out of pocket.
Legal Requirement: Some venues and clients require proof of public liability insurance before allowing you on-site.
Professionalism: Having insurance demonstrates you take your role seriously and are prepared for any eventuality, which can give you a competitive edge.
Covers Unintentional Mistakes: Even if you're highly skilled, errors can happen. Insurance ensures you're covered when something goes wrong.
What Does Public Liability Insurance Cover?
Here are some common areas covered by public liability insurance for set carpenters:
Third-Party Injury: If someone gets injured due to your work (e.g., a crew member trips over a cable you’re responsible for), your insurance covers the claim.
Property Damage: If equipment or staging damages venue property, the insurance will handle the costs.
Legal Fees: In the event of a claim, your insurance will cover the cost of legal representation and any associated court fees.
Compensation Payouts: If you’re found liable, the insurance covers the compensation owed to the injured party or damaged property owner.
It’s important to check your policy for exclusions, such as damage caused intentionally or injuries to employees, as these may require separate coverage.
How Much Cover Do You Need?
The amount of cover you’ll need depends on the type of work you do and the scale of the events. Smaller jobs might require a minimum of £1 million, while larger productions may demand up to £10 million in coverage. Always check with the production manager or client to understand their specific requirements.
How to Get Public Liability Insurance
Research Providers: Look for insurance companies that specialize in covering those working in the live events industry or tradespeople.
Compare Policies: Not all policies are created equal. Compare what’s covered, the excess amount, and the level of support offered.
Tailor Your Policy: Ensure your policy fits your work as a set carpenter, including the types of venues you work in and the scale of your projects.
Keep Your Certificate Accessible: Once you’ve purchased insurance, keep a digital and physical copy of your policy certificate. Many clients or venues will ask to see proof of insurance before allowing you to work.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Insurance?
Working without public liability insurance can expose you to serious risks. Without it, you’re personally liable for any claims made against you. This could mean covering medical bills, property repairs, or legal fees out of your own pocket. Beyond the financial risk, not having insurance may also limit your job opportunities, as many productions won’t hire uninsured crew.
Additional Tips for Set Carpenters
Keep Your Policy Up to Date: Renew your insurance annually and update it if your work changes significantly.
Check the Fine Print: Understand what is and isn’t covered in your policy to avoid surprises.
Combine Policies If Necessary: If you also drive trucks or store large amounts of personal equipment, consider bundling your public liability insurance with other relevant policies, like equipment insurance.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to contact your provider with questions about your coverage—they’re there to help.
Public liability insurance is a non-negotiable for set carpenters working in the live events industry. It’s not just about ticking a box; it’s about protecting yourself, your clients, and the work you do. From what I understand £10 million pounds is the required coverage.
