Do I need public liability for my wedding?

Short answer

You usually do not need your own public liability insurance if your venue already has it, but it is worth checking. If you are holding the wedding in a private space like a garden or a village hall, you may need to arrange your own cover.

Public liability insurance protects you if a guest is injured or their property is damaged during your wedding, and you are found legally responsible. Most professional wedding venues, hotels, and registered wedding venues already have their own public liability insurance, and it usually covers events held on their premises. In that case, you do not need to buy a separate policy.

However, if you are getting married in a private garden, a family home, a public park, or a village hall that does not include cover in its hire fee, you should consider taking out your own public liability insurance. Some wedding insurance policies include public liability as standard, while others offer it as an optional extra. Check your venue contract and ask the venue manager directly whether their insurance covers your event and your guests.

If you are hiring external suppliers, such as caterers or a band, they should also have their own public liability insurance. Ask for proof of their cover before you book. If you are unsure about your own liability, speak to your wedding insurance provider or the venue. The rules can vary, so it is always sensible to confirm in writing.