Production insurance is necessary to your project. The type of policy you need will differ based on the type of production you are planning. Insurance is required to:
On a set, there are many moving parts, and each come with risks that may potentially jeopardize the production. Insurance is essential in protecting you from:
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You will need to:
Our team will guide you through this process.
It is becoming increasingly more common for distributors or financial entities to require Essential Element Cast Coverage on one or more “key performers” in a production; this could be a lead actor or the director. This coverage gives the production company control over the right to abandon a production, (where the standard cast wording gives that decision to the insurance company) should the “essential element” become incapacitated or unable to perform their duties for a specified “hold period” (usually 60 to 990 days). Coverage is subject to an additional premium charge.
To obtain the coverage an application is required. This policy provides legal liability coverage, including defense, against claims alleging unauthorized use of titles, format, ideas, characters and plots, plagiarism, and unfair competition. It also provides coverage for alleged libel, slander, defamation of character or invasion of privacy. Punitive Damages are not covered. This coverage will usually be required by distributors, prior to the release of any theatrical or television production.
There is much confusion about “independent contractors” or “1099 employees” when it comes to Workers’ Compensation. Generally speaking, if there is an employer/employee relationship (i.e. Production tells them where to be, when to be there and what they are supposed to do) then Workers’ Compensation law requires that production provide the coverage. If a payroll service is being utilized, they often provide this coverage as part of their services, but it is important to remember they would not pick up any unpaid volunteers or interns, so the Production may need to provide Workers’ Compensation coverage for these individuals even when a payroll services is involved.
If any stunts or pyrotechnics are part of the production, it may become necessary to provide additional information regarding limits desired or required. In addition, you may have to provide information regarding the use of animals, aircraft, watercraft, or railroads. Special insurance is usually required for these exposures, and a surcharge or additional premium is normally charged based upon the usage and exposures declared.
When the production company is signatory, they are required by the Guild or Union contracts to purchase a Guild Travel Accident policy. Coverage is blanket, and the pre-established limits must meet all signatory requirements. Coverage is also included for full time non-union employees, up to a benefit limit of $50,000 each. Higher limits can be purchased where needed.