If the employees of your nightclub interact with the public in any way, you need public liability. The number of claims surrounding liability saw a rapid increase in the UK this past decade. Over €11 billion was paid out in 2019 for liability insurance claims in the UK, according to the most recent statistics.
Though public liability insurance is not a legal requirement in the UK, it is highly recommended and many, if not all, nightclubs have a policy relating to it. Accidents are always possible when your nightclub involves direct contact with third parties. Public liability will protect you and your business financially in the event of a claim.
What does public liability for nightclubs cover?
Claims covered by public liability are wide ranging. It covers most accidents or injuries a member of the public sustains while located at your premises. The damage you or your employees or volunteers cause to third party property is also covered by public liability. It also covers the legal fees and compensation payments that would be payable if your club is found liable. Cover can range from £2 million to +£5 million.
Most common claims include:
Slips – a customer or guest attends your nightclub and slips on spilt drinks on a wet floor. They require attention and have fractured a bone. If they are unable to work, they will most likely claim against you.
Trips – a guest catches themselves on a wire, tripping and injures themselves. If they sprain themselves and pay medical expenses, they may choose to claim against you.
Falls – a visitor falls down the stairs in your nightclub. This could lead to a serious injury and they may claim against you for the time they have to take off work.
Damages – a member of your club causes damage to a third party’s property. Your nightclub is liable for the actions of your employees.
How much is public liability insurance for nightclubs?
The cost of public liability insurance for nightclubs depends on a range of factors. According to our competitive insurers, the average price for public liability insurance annually across all industries is over £117. However, nightclubs can receive sub-£100 premiums due to their size, industry type and number of public-facing employees. The price of a premium depends upon:
- the nature of your nightclub
- the scale of your nightclub
- the location of your nightclub
- the number of guests your nightclub welcomes monthly
- as well as other factors such as claims history.
The most effective way to improve your premiums is to use a broker. NDML understand the nightlife market, have experience in insurance claims and maintain a good relationship with insurers. NDML will tailor your public liability policy to your nightclub, ensuring your business never gets tripped up.
The only way to truly know how much your public liability will cost is by requesting a quote. Fill out a quote form here or talk over the phone for a free enquiry and to arrange a possible visitation.
What should nightclub owners do when there’s an accident?
- Do not accept liability
- Provide first aid assistance
- Clear up any spillages
- Photographs of the location and also the injuries of the injured person
- Capture witnesses
- Take statements
- Complete an accident book entry
- Contact NDML and report the likelihood of a possible claim
To contact us you can reach NDML at 0344 488 9205 or fill out a contact form.