Producing your first film is an exciting milestone, but it also brings new responsibilities behind the scenes. One of the most important steps in protecting your project is securing the right film production insurance.
Whether you’re filming a short indie project or a feature-length movie, entertainment insurance helps protect your cast, crew, and equipment, and ensures your production can keep rolling even when the unexpected happens.
A single accident can halt production and cost thousands in lost time or repairs. A dropped camera, a sprained ankle on set, or unexpected weather damage can all derail your schedule.
Film insurance provides financial protection, peace of mind, and, often, credibility. Most studios, municipalities, and equipment rental companies require proof of production insurance before filming begins. Having coverage isn’t just a safety net; it’s part of being a professional producer.
Not all insurance policies are created equal. Here are the most common types of film production insurance you’ll need to consider:
Covers third-party injuries or property damage that occur during production. It’s mandatory for most filming permits and rental agreements.
Protects your owned and rented cameras, lights, and gear from theft, loss, or damage, whether on set, in transit, or in storage.
Also called Accident or Workers’ Compensation coverage, this protects your team if someone gets injured while working on set. Some provinces require this by law.
A customizable bundle that includes property, liability, and other coverage types designed specifically for your production’s scale and needs.
Required for distribution deals and streaming releases, this coverage protects against claims of copyright infringement, libel, or defamation.
The cost of film production insurance varies depending on your project’s size, duration, budget, and risk factors. A small student film might need only basic short-term coverage, while a feature film or commercial with stunts, animals, or special effects will require more robust protection.
Tip: Treat insurance as an essential part of your production budget, not an afterthought. A broker specializing in film and entertainment insurance can help tailor coverage to your specific needs, without breaking your budget.
Ideally, you should have insurance in place before pre-production begins. You’ll need proof of insurance when:
Many insurers offer short-term policies for single projects, while frequent producers can benefit from annual coverage that protects multiple productions throughout the year.
Not every insurance provider understands the fast-paced world of film production. A specialized film insurance broker, like Front Row Insurance, brings deep industry knowledge, access to competitive markets, and experience navigating complex film projects.
Front Row can help you:
Producing a film takes creativity, coordination, and courage. With the right film production insurance in place, you can focus on storytelling, knowing your investment, your crew, and your vision are protected.