Commissions checklist
10 Insurance
- Who will be responsible for obtaining adequate insurance cover for each stage in the commissioning process and to what level of indemnity:
- all risks insurance Note: Artists working off-site during the production of the work will need 'all risks' insurance to cover physical loss or damage to the work until it is finished and delivered on site. For example, if there is a fire in the artist's studio and the work is destroyed. If the work is made on site or once it is delivered on site the commissioner will be expected to take out permanent all-risks cover. Local authorities often do not insure artworks as a matter of policy, in which case it is important to include clear obligations for maintenance and repair.
- personal accident insurance Note: The artist should arrange personal accident or injury insurance to cover themselves and anyone assisting them.
- public liability insurance Note: Public liability cover is required against damage or injury to property or persons when the work is being produced (either in the artist's studio or on site) and when the work is being installed. The level of indemnity may vary during the commissioning process. For example a higher level will be needed when the artist is working on site than when s/he is working in their studio. a-n's Artist members benefit from £5m Public and Products Liability insurance and access to other discounted insurances.
- employer's liability insurance Note: Employer's liability insurance will cover the artist if anyone that they are employing to assist with the project is injured whilst working for the artist.
- other? Note: The commissioner may wish to include an indemnity clause protecting them from any loss or damage from the artist's negligence or willful acts of omission.
