Insurance Considerations for Backyard Pandemic Weddings
Updated: Sep 23, 2020
Here's an article from the respected insurance news company PropertyCasualty360, followed by my synopsis and thoughts:
Author: Bill Martin
Published: September 03, 2020
According to the article, “95% of engaged couples with spring weddings decided to postpone or reschedule their weddings. Many couples have opted for intimate backyard weddings that take place at their home or another residence”.
Even if the wedding is small, there are still risks and hazards to be aware of to help prevent any claims or lawsuits.
The first thing you should do is contact your Insurance Agent to discuss your own homeowner’s insurance policy coverage levels and any potential risks or hazards before the wedding occurs.
Most homeowner’s policies would cover most common incidents’ that might occur at a wedding. For example, if a guest trips and breaks their ankle. You’d have medical coverage and liability coverage in the event they sue for damages (also covers defense & litigation); so long as a court would find that you took “reasonable care”, which shows a level of caution and concern for safety.
Another potential hazard for backyard pandemic weddings is cooking catastrophes. “According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of home structure fires.” Fire is a covered peril under virtually all homeowner’s insurance policies but if a caterer or cook is hired and they cause a fire, it is the vendors responsibility. If hiring a caterer or cook, ask for their Evidence of Insurance before the wedding to verify insurance coverage.
Last but certainly not the least, if you are planning on serving alcohol in any form or fashion, privately or professionally, you or the vendor will absolutely need Liquor Liability coverage. Without this coverage you put yourself at risk of not having coverage if someone is overserved and causes damages.
You can purchase Event Insurance that is specific to a wedding or event. These policies usually provide coverage above and beyond what your normal homeowner’s insurance policy does and has the option to include Liquor Liability coverage.
If you are in need of a Free Quote for Event Insurance or would like an experienced agent to review your current homeowner’s policy, please feel free to contact us at (360) 312-5104 or at Alex@KimblerFinancial.com.
Alex Kimbler
Insurance Agent
Kimbler Insurance Agency LLC
(360) 312-5104