Orlando Harmon
Commercial film shoots require insurance to protect the producer from financial loss before, during, or after filming. Film production insurance policies vary widely, but general liability insurance is always required. This covers bodily injury and property damage that occurs during filming. Workers' compensation insurance is also necessary to protect employees on the job. Depending on the shoot, specialised policies can be added to cover stunts, drones, or weather-related issues. Short-term production insurance can cover projects on a day-to-day basis, while annual policies are more suitable for active production companies with multiple shoots throughout the year.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To shield your production company from liability and protect the producer from anything that goes wrong before, during, or after filming |
| Coverage | On-set injuries and damage to equipment, set accidents, stunts, drones, weather-related issues, rented equipment, and travel |
| Types | General liability, workers' compensation, commercial auto insurance, errors and omissions insurance, umbrella insurance |
| Cost | Basic insurance is a few thousand dollars minimum, but the cost depends on the coverage amount, number of coverage areas, and whether the policy is short-term or annual |
| Certificates | Certificates of Insurance (COIs) are required by vendors, crew members, and city/county permitting offices |
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What You'll Learn
Short-term vs. annual insurance
When it comes to insurance for a commercial film shoot, there are a few options to consider. The two main types of insurance that are relevant here are short-term and annual insurance. Short-term film production insurance is a popular choice for filmmakers due to its low cost and simplicity in arranging a policy. This type of insurance can be tailored to cover different aspects of production, such as set accidents, equipment damage, and even specific situations like stunts or drone usage. It is important to note that short-term insurance typically covers a limited duration, such as up to 15 consecutive days.
On the other hand, annual film production insurance provides more comprehensive coverage over a longer period. This type of insurance is suitable for filmmakers with consistent and ongoing needs throughout the year. Annual insurance can also be tailored, but it generally offers more extensive protection, including workers' compensation and general liability. For example, if you have a crew member get injured during the shoot, workers' compensation will cover their medical expenses and provide paid time off. Additionally, with annual insurance, your coverage area can encompass a larger region, such as the entire United States.
The decision between short-term and annual insurance depends on the specific needs and budget of the production company. Short-term insurance is ideal for one-off or short-duration projects, especially those with limited budgets. It provides essential coverage at a lower cost, making it accessible to new and established filmmakers. However, it may not offer the same level of comprehensive protection as annual insurance.
Annual insurance, on the other hand, is designed for companies with consistent filming needs throughout the year. It provides peace of mind and ensures that your production is covered no matter when or where filming occurs within the policy period. While it tends to be more expensive, annual insurance can save you money in the long run by avoiding the need to purchase multiple short-term policies. Additionally, annual insurance often includes higher coverage limits and additional benefits, such as worldwide coverage or specialised coverage for unique filming situations.
When choosing between short-term and annual insurance, it is crucial to assess your production's requirements, budget, and frequency of filming. Short-term insurance is perfect for single projects or those with limited durations, while annual insurance offers ongoing protection for companies with frequent filming needs. By understanding your needs and comparing quotes from different providers, you can make an informed decision to ensure your film shoot is adequately protected.
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General liability insurance
This type of insurance can also include equipment protection, which is crucial for film shoots involving expensive or specialised gear. This includes both owned and rented camera equipment, as well as other production equipment such as props, sets, wardrobe items, and vehicles. With general liability insurance, filmmakers can have peace of mind knowing that their equipment is protected from damage, loss, or theft.
Additionally, general liability insurance can provide protection against third-party property damage. This type of coverage is often referred to as location insurance and is designed to cover any damage that may occur to the filming location or surrounding properties during the production. This can include damage to buildings, landscapes, or other assets.
Overall, general liability insurance plays a crucial role in mitigating financial risks and ensuring a safe and smooth production process for filmmakers. By tailoring the policy to their specific needs, production companies can focus on their creative endeavours with the assurance that they are protected from unforeseen events and potential liabilities.
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Workers' compensation
When it comes to commercial film shoots, there are various types of insurance that producers need to consider. One of the most important is workers' compensation insurance, which is often simply referred to as workers' comp.
Workers' comp is a type of insurance coverage that reimburses employees for work-related illnesses or injuries sustained while on the job. It is a legal requirement to have this type of insurance in place to cover cast and crew members on any film production, including commercials, short films, documentaries, and music videos. This includes low- or micro-budget film productions.
Workers' comp insurance can be taken out by the business, and it is often advantageous for production companies to cover independent contractors under a workers' comp policy, as it can protect the company from liability. In most states and provinces, the producer is obliged to provide coverage for any cast or crew they hire. This can be arranged through a private entertainment insurance broker or directly through a state or provincial agency.
Workers' comp insurance covers medical costs, rehabilitation expenses, and loss of future income. It also usually means that the injured party waives their right to sue the producer or production company, regardless of who was at fault. This can be beneficial for both parties.
If you are a crew member, it is important to always ask the producer if you are covered by workers' comp, even when volunteering on a short shoot. If you are injured on set, you should report your injury to your employer immediately and seek prompt medical treatment. Good medical documentation will help your workers' comp claim be processed faster and have a higher chance of approval.
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Equipment protection
Film equipment insurance is essential to protect yourself from costly damages or theft occurring on set. This insurance can be purchased for individual projects, monthly or annually, depending on the number of shoots. It is designed to cover equipment used in pre-production, production, and post-production. This includes cameras, lighting, sound equipment, videography equipment, and even computers.
It is important to note that your personal home insurance will most likely not cover your film equipment when you are away from home or using it for commercial purposes. Therefore, it is crucial to purchase film equipment insurance separately. This insurance will protect your equipment as you travel from location to location anywhere in the world, providing coverage for accidental damage, theft, and loss.
When purchasing film equipment insurance, be sure to provide your broker with as much detail as possible about the equipment you need to be covered. The cost of the policy will usually depend on the value of the equipment. You can also ask about adding location liability to your policy for an additional premium.
Some insurance providers offer short-term production insurance, which can be a cost-effective option for filmmakers. This type of insurance can cover rented equipment for a specified number of consecutive days, with different coverage limits available. Additionally, you may be able to bundle your film equipment policy with your annual production insurance policy to save on costs.
It is recommended to research different insurance companies and compare their strengths and weaknesses to find the best fit for your specific needs. You can also utilize online tools such as quote builders to get an estimate of the cost of film equipment insurance.
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International coverage
When it comes to international coverage for a commercial film shoot, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the specific risks and requirements of your shoot locations. This includes being aware of any local regulations, permissions, or insurance requirements for filming in a particular country or region. Working with an insurance broker who specializes in international film production insurance can be beneficial in navigating these complexities.
In terms of specific types of insurance, here are some essential coverages to consider for your international commercial film shoot:
- General Liability Insurance and Professional Liability Insurance: These policies protect against a range of risks, including property damage, injury claims, and professional negligence. For example, if filming equipment causes damage to property or injures a bystander, general liability insurance can provide coverage. Professional liability insurance, on the other hand, can protect against claims arising from professional services provided during the shoot.
- Workers' Compensation Coverage: This type of insurance covers medical expenses and lost income for crew members who are injured or become ill during the production. It is important to ensure that the policy covers international workers and complies with the regulations of the countries where filming takes place.
- Commercial Property Insurance and Equipment Insurance: Commercial property insurance covers any physical assets owned by the production company, while equipment insurance specifically covers filming equipment, whether owned or rented. This can include cameras, lighting, sound equipment, and more. It is crucial to ensure that your equipment insurance policy covers international shoots and provides adequate coverage for transportation and storage risks.
- Production Insurance: This type of insurance is specifically designed for film productions and can cover a wide range of risks, including injuries on set, equipment damage, copyright claims, and vehicle-related incidents. Production insurance can be purchased for a single project or on an annual basis, depending on your needs. When filming internationally, it is essential to work with an insurer who understands the unique challenges and risks of filming in different countries.
- Media Liability Insurance and Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Media liability insurance protects against claims arising from the content of your film, including defamation, invasion of privacy, and copyright infringement. E&O insurance, also known as professional indemnity insurance, covers legal costs and claims arising from professional mistakes or oversights. When filming internationally, it is important to ensure that your media liability and E&O policies cover claims arising from local laws and regulations.
When seeking international coverage for a commercial film shoot, it is crucial to start planning early. Insurance requirements can vary significantly across different countries, and obtaining the necessary coverage may take time. Working with experienced brokers and insurers who understand the complexities of international film production insurance will help ensure that you have the appropriate coverage for your specific needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Film production insurance shields your production from liability up to a specified amount of money. It covers exposures such as theft, accidental property damage, injury to spectators, injury to cast and crew members, etc.
There are two types of film production insurance: short-term and long-term. Short-term insurance covers a single production and is purchased on a project-by-project basis. Long-term insurance covers all productions within a year and is ideal for active production companies.
Film production insurance covers various aspects of production, from set accidents to equipment damage. It also includes general liability, workers' compensation, and equipment protection.
The insurance policy should be tailored to your production company's needs. It should also cover all the locations you will be filming in. It is recommended to consult an insurance agent to find the best policy for your needs.
