Got a Gig? If You’re a Performer, Make Sure You and Your Property Are Covered When Performing

From the smallest towns to the largest cities, there's the repeated scene of a bar or club filled with people. They gather to eat, drink, and to be entertained (usually) by one of three popular sources: live bands, DJs, and karaoke. While many performers who provide these services do so full-time, the vast majority don't. In fact, many such performers treat their activities as hobbies instead of businesses, and that can create problems.

Performing for the public as a karaoke emcee, DJ, or band member requires a lot of interaction with the public through venue customers and venue staff. There is also a significant investment in equipment and/or instruments. Such performers face the possibility of a loss involving legal liability to other persons, as well as loss to their own property.

DJs, karaoke emcees, and band members are also, typically, homeowners or renters. They usually are policyholders of homeowners or renters insurance. Many are woefully unaware, however, that they may have special insurance needs related to their hobbies that should be addressed to avoid big problems.

Such performers should investigate the type of losses they may face as performers and attempt to arrange for proper coverage. They should also be aware that it could be a huge mistake to assume that their basic residential liability and property coverage can handle such losses.

First, let's consider the property situation that exists for the type of entertainers we've mentioned. All such persons regularly use the following:

• Electronic amplifying equipment, microphones, speakers, stands
• Electronic (including digital and computer) sound recording and reproducing equipment
• Electronic and acoustic instruments
• Lighting equipment and various accessories

This property is subject to serious coverage limitations under a typical residential policy. Generally, a policy must be modified to include scheduled (specifically describing items) coverage that may involve getting documentation and appraisals to establish coverage amounts.

Liability Considerations

Performers are often at public places and events, mingling with audiences, moving around with equipment or instruments, laying wiring and positioning various equipment, inviting guests and working with people, using podiums or stages, and weaving among diners, drinkers, and dancers. Often, they are dealing with intoxicated people with reduced agility and judgment. These situations can create incidents where a performer may be directly responsible for injuring others or damaging others' property.

The coverage needs of performers are complicated when they engage in these activities for income. Business activities are usually excluded. Securing proper coverage may involve a simple attachment of a form to a homeowner or rental policy, buying a separate inland marine policy, or arranging for separate business coverage.

If you are an entertainer, you may want to schedule a show with an expert agent at Williams Insurance to ensure your act is protected!