Are you part of a band or in the music industry? If so, you know how important it is to protect yourself and your equipment from unexpected accidents that can happen in concerts and other events. Music band insurance protects you from liability claims, equipment damage, and other risks.
With various types of coverage available, such as commercial property insurance, business owner's policy, music equipment insurance, commercial auto insurance, accident insurance, and workers' compensation insurance for bands and DJs - there are plenty of options to choose from based on your specific needs.
We'll explore each type of coverage in detail and discuss its benefits. Additionally, we'll review some of the best companies offering band insurance policies so that you can decide which one suits your needs best.
CoverWallet | NEXT (Best) | Thimble | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Per occurrence limit | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 | $300,000/$1,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 |
Aggregate limit | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 | $300,000/$2,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 |
Products and completed operations aggregate limit | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 |
Advertising injury coverage aggregate limit | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 |
Tenant’s legal liability coverage limit | $100,000 | $100,000 | $5,000 | $100,000 | $1,000,000 |
Waiver of subrogation included? | Yes | No | Included | Can be included | No |
Hired/non-owned auto liability coverage included? | Yes | No | Excluded | Can be included | Can be included |
Equipment breakdown floater included? | No | Yes | Yes | Can be included | Can be included |
General liability insurance for bands is a type of insurance that protects the band and its members from financial loss due to claims of bodily injury or property damage caused to a third party. Band members may encounter various risks and liabilities that may arise before, during, or after an event and that's why they need this insurance. Here are some situations where this business insurance for bands can help:
If a band member accidentally damages someone else's property while performing
In case equipment causes bodily injury to someone attending their show
In the event that a band member causes accidental injury to someone during a performance
The coverage limits for this band liability insurance can range from $1 million to $5 million, depending on the policy and the insurer.
Liquor liability insurance–Provides coverage for damages caused by alcohol-related incidents at events where the band is performing
Hired/non-owned auto liability insurance–Offers coverage for damages caused by rented or borrowed vehicles used by the band
This band liability insurance typically does not cover accidents that occur during transportation to and from a performance venue. This type of insurance primarily focuses on protecting against liability claims arising from the band's activities during the actual event or performance.
CoverWallet | NEXT | Thimble (Best) | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Per occurrence limit | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 |
Aggregate limit | $2,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $2,000,000 |
Name additional insureds? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Waiver of subrogation included? | Yes | No | Yes | Can be included | No |
Professional liability insurance for bands, also known as errors and omissions insurance, provides coverage for claims of professional negligence or errors that result in financial loss for a third party.
If a band fails to show up for a scheduled performance and the event organizer experiences financial loss as a result
A member fails to deliver promised services, such as sound engineering or musical instruction, resulting in financial loss for the client
A band member infringes on the intellectual property rights of another party, such as using copyrighted music without permission
The coverage limits for this band liability insurance can range from $500,000 to $2 million, depending on the policy and the insurer.
Media liability insurance–Covers for damages resulting from the band's advertising or promotional materials, such as copyright infringement or defamation
Yes, if a band's failure to meet contractual obligations results in financial loss for the client, professional liability insurance may provide coverage for those damages.
Public liability insurance or PLI for bands is a type of insurance that provides coverage for claims of bodily injury or property damage caused to a third party during a band's performance or event. The policy also involves band public liability Insurance for 1 Day which provides coverage for bands or musicians during specific events or performances, including single-day gigs or concerts.
The coverage limits for band public liability insurance can range from $1 million to $5 million, depending on the policy and the insurer.
PLI insurance for bands can potentially cover claims of food poisoning resulting from food sold at a band's event, depending on the specific terms and coverage of the policy. PLI typically covers third-party bodily injury claims, which may include illnesses or injuries caused by the consumption of food or beverages at the event.
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CoverWallet | NEXT (Best) | Thimble | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Building coverage limit (minimum) | $50,000 | $260,000 | $25,000/$500,000 | $25,000 | $60,000 |
Contents coverage limit (minimum) | $50,000 | $22,000 | $25,000/$500,000 | $25,000 | $60,000 |
Outdoor signs | Excluded | $2,500 | Excluded | Excluded | Excluded |
Accounts receivable | Excluded | Excluded | $5,000/10,000 | Included | Excluded |
Money and securities | Excluded | $2,500 | $1,000 | Included | Excluded |
Lock and keys | Excluded | $2,500 | Excluded | Excluded | Excluded |
Business interruption floater | Excluded | Included | Included | Included | Excluded |
Equipment breakdown floater | Excluded | Included | Excluded | Excluded | Excluded |
Inland marine insurance floater | Excluded | Excluded | $10,000 | Excluded | Excluded |
Employee dishonesty floater | Excluded | $5,000 | $2,500 | Included | Excluded |
Commercial property insurance for bands is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for the physical assets of a music band, including their instruments, equipment, and other property used for musical performances.This type of band insurance policy is crucial for bands that rely on their gear and equipment to make a living.
Coverage limits for commercial property insurance for bands can vary depending on the specific policy and the needs of the band. Typically, coverage can include protection for theft, damage, loss, and destruction of instruments and equipment. The limit you select can usually range from $300,000 up to $1,000,000. Some policies also offer coverage for loss of income due to equipment failure or damage.
Theft or loss of instruments and equipment
Damage to instruments and equipment
Fire, flood or natural disasters damaging the instruments and equipment
Equipment failure leading to cancel gigs and loss of income
Business interruption coverage–Provides coverage for lost income and other expenses incurred as a result of a covered loss, such as a fire or natural disaster, that causes your band's business operations to be temporarily shut down
Equipment breakdown coverage–Cover for the cost of repairs or replacement of your band's equipment due to mechanical or electrical breakdown
Spoilage coverage–If your band uses perishable items, such as food or drink items, in your business operations, you may need to add spoilage coverage to your policy to protect against losses due to spoilage or contamination
Commercial property insurance for bands covers the physical assets of a band, including instruments and equipment. General liability insurance, on the other hand, covers bodily injury and property damage caused by the band or its members. Both types of insurance are important for a band to have, but they provide different types of coverage.
CoverWallet | Thimble (Best) | NEXT | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
General liability aggregate limit | $2,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $300,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 |
Commercial property coverage limit | $50,000 | $500,000 | $260,000 | $25,000 | $75,000 |
Optional policies can be added? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Name additional insureds for free? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
BOP discount? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
A business owner’s policy (BOP) is a comprehensive insurance policy that bundles general liability insurance and commercial property insurance together. For bands, a BOP can provide coverage for liability risks and physical assets.
Coverage limits for a BOP can vary depending on the specific policy and the needs of the band. However, BOPs are available with limits as low as $300,000/$600,000 and as high as $2 million/$4 million.
Accidents or injuries that occur during a performance or event
Property damage caused by the band or its members
Loss of income due to canceled gigs or business interruption
Legal fees and defense costs in case of a lawsuit
Cyber liability coverage–This coverage can protect your business from financial losses due to cyber attacks
Commercial auto coverage–If you own or lease vehicles for your band's transportation needs, this endorsement can provide coverage for accidents, theft, or other damages that occur while on the road
Yes, a BOP can cover non-musical events as long as they are related to the band's business activities. It is important to review the policy details and speak with the insurance provider to ensure that all activities are covered.
NEXT | Thimble | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Aggregate limit | $3,000/$10,000 | $2,500/$5,000 | $15,000/$25,000 | $5,000-$10,000 |
Covers hired and borrowed equipment? | $3,000/$10,000 | $2,500/$5,000 | No | Yes |
Miscellaneous equipment also covered? | $5,000/$10,000 | No | Yes | Yes |
Offered as an endorsement to general liability insurance? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Deductible | $500 | $500 | $0 | $0 |
Equipment insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for the physical instruments and equipment used by a music band. This type of insurance policy is crucial for bands that rely on their gear to make a living. Here are some situations where this band instrument insurance can help:
Theft or loss of instruments and equipment
Damage to instruments and equipment
Fire, flood, or natural disasters damaging the instruments and equipment
Equipment failure leading to cancel gigs and loss of income
Coverage limits for band equipment insurance can vary depending on the specific policy and the needs of the band. Typically, coverage can include protection for theft, damage, loss, and destruction of instruments and equipment. Some policies also offer coverage for loss of income due to equipment failure or damage.
Mysterious disappearance coverage–Offers coverage for the loss of your band's musical instruments and equipment when the cause of the loss is unknown or unexplained.
Flood insurance–If your band's storage facility is located in an area prone to flooding, you may need to add a flood insurance endorsement to your policy to protect against losses due to flood damage
Some music equipment insurance policies for bands can cover rental equipment, but it is important to check with the insurance provider and ensure that rental equipment is explicitly included in the policy.
Commercial auto insurance is specifically designed to provide coverage for vehicles used by bands or musicians for their touring or transportation needs. Here are some situations where this band van insurance can help
If your band is involved in a collision, commercial auto insurance can cover property damage, bodily injury, and legal expenses
In case a band's vehicle is stolen, commercial auto insurance can provide coverage for the loss
If your band's vehicle is vandalized, commercial auto insurance can provide coverage for the damage
Coverage limits vary depending on the policy and provider. The limit can start from $100,000 commercial auto liability coverage per vehicle, with a recommended minimum of $500,000 up to a maximum of $1 million.
Commercial auto insurance is designed to cover the vehicle when it is used for business purposes only. If the band uses the vehicle for personal use, they may need to obtain a separate personal auto insurance policy.
Accident insurance for bands can be tailored to provide coverage for specific accidents or injuries that may occur during performances or related activities. Coverage limits and specific situations covered will depend on the terms and conditions of the policy.
Injuries sustained during performances or rehearsals
Accidents that occur during transportation to and from gigs or events
Falls or injuries sustained while setting up or taking down equipment
Common exclusions to accident insurance for bands may include injuries sustained while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, self-inflicted injuries, and injuries that occur while engaging in illegal activities.
Workers' compensation insurance is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. For bands, this insurance can cover the band members in case of accidents, injuries, or illnesses that occur during band-related activities. Costs covered are medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation, and death benefits, in case of death.
Workers' compensation insurance requirements vary by state, so it's important to check the state's laws where the band is located. Some states may exempt bands from workers' compensation requirements if they have fewer than a certain number of band members.
The insurance provides coverage for claims that may arise as a result of your performance or activities during an event. For instance, if a customer sustains an injury by tripping over your equipment or if you accidentally damage the venue, band insurance can assist in covering the expenses associated with such claims.
The coverage limits can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size of the band, the nature of the event, and the insurance company providing the coverage. These factors can influence the maximum amount of financial protection offered by the insurance policy. It's important for bands to carefully review and compare coverage limits from different insurance providers to ensure they are adequately protected against potential risks and liabilities.
Cost per Month | Cost per Year | Deductible | |
---|---|---|---|
General liability insurance | $33 | $396 | $0-$500 |
Professional liability insurance | $35 | $420 | $500-$1,000 |
Commercial property insurance | $80 | $960 | $1,000-$2,000 |
Business owner’s policy | $120 | $1,440 | $500-$2,000 |
Music equipment insurance | $37 | $444 | $0-$1,000 |
Commercial auto insurance | $50 | $600 | $1,000-$2,000 |
Workers compensation insurance | $70 | $840 | $2,500-$5,000 |
The average band insurance cost is $33 per month or $396 per year for a $1 million general liability policy. Here are some factors that affect the premiums:
Type of coverage–Different types of band insurance policies, such as general liability, professional liability, and equipment insurance have varying costs based on their coverage limits and specific risks they protect against
Band size and activities–The size of the band and the nature of its activities can impact the insurance cost. Larger bands with more members and extensive touring schedules may face higher premiums due to increased risks
Value of equipment–The value of the band's instruments, sound equipment, and other gear plays a significant role in determining insurance costs. Higher-valued equipment may lead to higher premiums
Location–Insurance costs can vary based on the band's location. Factors such as regional risk profiles, local regulations, and the prevalence of certain hazards or incidents in an area can influence the premiums
In connection, here’s a table showing the cost of a $1 million general liability insurance from companies we recommend:
Cost per Month | Cost per Year | Best for | |
---|---|---|---|
NEXT | $16 | $192 | Best overall; Fastest general liability insurance for bands and DJs |
The Hartford | $19 | $228 | Comparing band insurance quotes online |
CoverWallet | $22 | $264 | Workers compensation insurance for bands |
Tivly | $24 | $288 | Comparing band insurance quotes over the phone |
Hiscox | $26 | $312 | Customizable policies for bands and music industry professionals |
Thimble | $29 | $348 | On-demand coverage for bands |
Get all the best quotes from leading providers in a click of a button!
When finding the best band insurance company, there are several factors to consider, such as policy options, pricing, customer service, and reputation. Here are six top band insurance companies to consider:
Best overall
Issues an online proof of insurance instantly
Fastest general liability insurance for bands
Great customer service and reputation
Excellent rates
Outstanding value for money
Get a 10% discount if you buy two or more policies
Couldn’t find any
NEXT is a great option for bands looking for affordable liability insurance. Policies offered by this company are general liability, commercial property, business owner’s policy, and more. Coverage limits for each kind of business insurance is tailored to the needs of the customer. NEXT grants a 10% to those who buy two or more policies in a bundle.
Best for: Best overall; Fastest general liability insurance for bands and DJs
Average cost: $16 per month
Our rating: 10/10
Offers a variety of insurance types for bands, including general liability, commercial auto, and workers' compensation.
Allows you to manage all of your insurance policies in one place.
HNOA coverage automatically included in general liability insurance
Not an insurance company but an insurance broker
CoverWallet is a top choice for bands that want to customize their insurance coverage. They allow bands to choose the specific coverage limits and deductibles that work for them. Moreover, upon getting insured, a policyholder can easily manage their policies online through the MyCoverWallet dashboard.
Best for: Comparing band insurance quotes online
Average cost: $19 per month
Our rating: 10/10
Offers a wide range of insurance types for bands, including general liability, commercial auto, and workers' compensation.
Provides flexible payment options for premiums.
Renowned company for workers compensation insurance
Bands with poor risk profiles might need to call an agent to get a quote
The Hartford is a trusted insurance provider that offers comprehensive coverage for bands. It’s a renowned company for workers compensation insurance and has received many awards for underwriting the policy.
Best for: Workers compensation insurance for bands
Average cost: $22 per month
Our rating: 10/10
Specialty insurance provider with expertise in the music and entertainment industry
Coverage options for equipment and property damage
A partner of many reputable insurance companies
You need to call to get a quote
Tivly is a specialty insurance provider for the music and entertainment industry. They offer insurance policies for bands and DJs. This company grants coverage regardless of your risk profile. Policies you purchase from Tivly are underwritten by its reputable partners. Call now to compare quotes over the phone.
Best for: Comparing band insurance quotes over the phone
Average cost: $24 per month
Our rating: 9/10
Tailored policies to meet the unique needs of bands and music industry professionals
Customizable coverage options for instruments, equipment, liability, and business interruption
Access to risk management resources and tools
May have higher pricing compared to other providers
Hiscox offers customized insurance solutions for businesses, including bands and music industry professionals. Their policies are tailored to meet the unique needs of musicians, with coverage for instruments, equipment, liability, and business interruption.
Best for: Customizable policies for bands and music industry professionals
Average cost: $26 per month
Our rating: 9/10
Online quote process is straightforward
Up to $500,000 commercial property coverage
General liability insurance can be purchased by the hour, day, or week
You can’t reach customer service by calling
Thimble is an excellent choice for bands that need liability insurance for short-term gigs or events. This company’s general liability insurance is available as hourly, daily, or weekly coverage. Nonetheless, you can purchase general liability insurance as an annual policy that comes with equipment coverage, and cyber liability coverage as add-ons.
Best for: On-demand coverage for bands
Average cost: $29 per month.
Our rating: 9/10
Use anyone except Employers. Period. They are non-transparent and shameful. After I complained long enough to warrant a call from a supervisor, the supervisor called back from a PRIVATE NUMBER (no caller ID), left a message that they are not reversing their decision (without any communication with me), and failed to leave a phone number for me to call back. She was hiding! They also fact find via email and phone calls, which is terrific for speed and communication. However, after setting a precedence of email or phone calls, they send time sensitive information via email, without any heads up... they are hoping you miss it and forfeit via expiration. Evil policies. Go elsewhere.
This place is an absolute joke of a company and should be ashamed of the way they conduct business. I was hurt on the job at the end of July and it took them just shy of 7 weeks to issue out a paycheck to me. Yes the amount was back dated but still. Not many have the luxury of not receiving a paycheck for almost 2 months. To top it all off, the original adjuster marked me down for the wrong state which caused a problem from the get go, I've had 3 different adjusters now since each one can't seem to figure out the simplicity of my claim. All my paperwork which includes, my job, house, and drs visits all are from the same state and city but yet some how I have been filed under a completely different state 1500 miles away. They do not answer your phone calls or emails no matter how many you leave. I've had to escalate my frustrations to the supervisors of each of these individuals in order to even get some kind of response. I've had more communication and information given to me about my claim from the customer service representatives then the actual adjusters.......... please tell me how that works?! A serious overhaul needs to happen here in order to serve your clients the way they deserve to be taken care of. 10/10 do not recommend this company to a single soul on earth
I have never had the displeasure of working with a more incompetent and disrespectful person in my life. I’m an injured worker and the adjuster that was assigned to my case was named Carrie Furgeson. In the past 6 weeks that I’ve been injured and out of work I have only been able to get ahold of her twice, not for lack of trying. I have left countless voicemails, countless emails, and she ignores them all. When I am finally able to get ahold of her I’m greeted with terrible customer service. She is rude, she talks over me and I’m hardly able to get a word in edgewise. She spelled my name wrong on my documents even after I spelled it for her properly countless times, this caused a whole new issue with my bank. I have bill collectors from the hospital calling me demanding payment and Carrie Furgeson won’t do a single thing to help, or to get them paid. All of my documentation is in Colorado, my job is in Colorado, my address is in Colorado, all my Dr offices and appointments have been in Colorado and Carrie still managed to hold my claim because she wasn’t sure what state she needed to file it under. It’s been 6 weeks since my Injury and my company still hasn’t received the wage paperwork to fill out so they can get me my correct wages. When she’s not ignoring me she’s answering my questions with “I don’t know” well I don’t know how she got this job, because apparently she doesn’t know anything about it. She is a disgusting morose individual inside and out and I genuinely wish her the worst in all of her future endeavors. I highly recommend you don’t use this company. Please if you are a business owner and your looking into this company please don’t use them. I’m sure they have the cheapest payment and that’s why companies use them in the first place, but you will be doing your employees a grave disservice by forcing them to venture into this absolute dumpster fire of a company. I would rate 0/5 if possible but 1 was the lowest I was allowed.
Their general liability insurance purchase process is simply the best online experience I've ever had in my life!
As long as they cover your line of business, you're literally covered! best rates, best coverage, best online experience, best professionals, can't be happier that I chose them!