Why Video Production Subcontractors Should Have Their Own Liability Insurance

If you work as a freelancer or subcontractor in the video production industry, carrying your own general liability insurance isn’t just a precaution—it’s becoming an industry standard.

Here’s why:

1. Protect Yourself from On-Set Risks:Video production environments can be unpredictable. With expensive equipment, intricate setups, and fast-paced schedules, accidents can happen. General liability insurance protects you in case something goes wrong, like damaging gear, causing injury, or accidentally creating a hazard on set. Without insurance, you could be personally responsible for covering these costs, which can be significant.
   

2. More Job Opportunities on Larger Productions:Many production companies, especially those handling larger shoots, prefer subcontractors who carry their own insurance. It shows professionalism and ensures that if an incident occurs, your policy will handle the claim, reducing the company's risk. Having your own coverage makes you more competitive for these jobs.
   

3. The Industry Standard:Surveys show that over 70% of freelancers in video production now carry their own general liability insurance. On bigger productions, this percentage is even higher. Even though production companies often carry their own liability insurance for full-time employees, they still prefer subcontractors with their own coverage. Here’s why:

   • Rising Premium Costs: When production companies have to add subcontractors to their policies, their premiums can increase dramatically. Recent rate hikes have made this even more expensive. By subcontractors having their own insurance, companies can keep their premiums in check, which is why they’re more likely to hire those who are already covered.
     

4. Affordable Coverage Options:General liability insurance policies for video production professionals can start at $50-$75 a month for $1 million in coverage. This relatively low cost provides significant peace of mind and ensures that you're protected no matter where you're working. Plus, it allows you to take on jobs with various companies without worrying about coverage.

What Type of Insurance Should You Look For?

• If You Operate Under Your Own Name: Look for professional liability insurance or general liability insurance providers. This type of policy is designed for individuals who work as independent contractors.
  

• If You Have a Business Entity (LLC, Corporation): Consider small business insurance providers. These companies offer comprehensive packages that can include general liability, equipment coverage, and more, tailored to small businesses.

How It Works: An Example Scenario

Imagine you're a freelance cameraman hired for a two-day commercial shoot. The production company has general liability insurance, but they ask if you have your own coverage. Here’s why:

• If You Have Your Own Insurance: You provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing the production company as an "Additional Insured." During the shoot, if your camera setup accidentally damages the client's property, your insurance policy would cover the claim. This limits the production company’s liability and keeps their premiums from rising.
  

• If You Don’t Have Insurance: The production company would need to cover you under their policy, which means paying additional premiums based on what they pay you for the job. These premiums can be substantial, especially for larger crews. And they are much more costly for the production company than they are for the individual subcontractor. So with rising insurance costs, this approach is becoming less affordable for many companies, which is why they now prefer subcontractors who carry their own coverage.

By carrying your own insurance, you protect yourself and make yourself a more desirable hire for production companies. It’s a small investment that can open doors to more work and greater peace of mind.

Where to Get Coverage

Here are a few providers that offer general liability insurance for freelancers and small businesses in video production. Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with or connected to any of these providers, nor do we vouch for them. We encourage you to do your own research to find the best insurance coverage for your situation.

• Thimble: On-demand coverage options, including by the hour, day, or month.
  

• NEXT Insurance: Affordable and flexible policies for small businesses and independent contractors.
  

• Insureon: Compare quotes from multiple top providers to find the best coverage.

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