Street party insurance

Streets Alive has found that many small residents-only street parties do not take out Public Liability Insurance. But, some councils require it and some residents may choose to take it out to cover liability of the 'organisers'.

Although such insurance can be useful for larger street parties, Streets Alive has found that raising the funds for the £80+ premium can put some residents off organising an event, especially for the first time.

The risks at most street parties are usually low and so the risk of liability to organisers and councils is low. Planning a safe event is the best way of reducing risks.

Residents should be aware of potential questions about the validity of such insurance in loosely arranged events, where often there is no constituted organisation, formal group or records involved.

Residents should read the Policy in advance as it may have exclusions such as:

• Bouncy castles - policies often exclude any injury to users. Also, the supplier's own insurance usually only covers the equipment, not the user.
• Other 'contractors' such as entertainers, who would need their own insurance.
• The 'excess' first £250 - 500 of a claim.
• Activities during setting up and taking down.
• Damage to or loss of any property belonging to the 'insured'.
• Any acts of vandalism etc. or anything as a result of effects of alcohol etc.
• Taking part in more risky sports etc.

If residents are being required by councils to take out insurance but you don't want it, please contact Streets Alive to ask us to help you question your council about it. Also, you can see our detailed advice on this. It may be that they are just asking for this automatically for all events and not thinking about street parties.

GOOD NEWS - One council, Oxford City, has decided to drop its requirement for PLI for street parties as a result of Streets Alive's advice and help with providing best practice from around the country. See our News and ask us for more detail.

Larger, more public events certainly would require insurance.

Important note: This advice is to help in planning an event, but it is not intended to constitute a complete list of organisational arrangements, responsibilities or liabilities for the planning of a street party or event. Streets Alive Ltd. recommends that professional advice is sought if organisers are in any doubt.