Media Business Insurance for Shops, Publishers, Producers, Printers, Importers and Online Sellers
Specialist Insurance Support For Physical And Digital Media Businesses
Media businesses can combine customer facing shops, publishing, production, printing, valuable equipment, physical stock, digital products, importing, distribution and online sales. Insurance should reflect the complete operation rather than only one part of the business.
Quote Monkey can introduce media retailers, publishers, producers, printers, importers, wholesalers and online sellers to a specialist broker. Any available protection remains subject to accurate disclosure, insurer acceptance, policy wording, limits, conditions and exclusions.
Media Shops Products Customers And Sales Channels
Media businesses range from independent retailers and collectable dealers to ecommerce sellers and subscription services. The broker should understand every product, customer group, sales channel and trading location.
Who Could This Page Help?
This page may be suitable for:
Relevant activities and considerations include Independent media shops, Physical media retailers, Record and CD shops, DVD and Blu ray retailers, Film and television merchandise shops, Book and magazine retailers, Comic and graphic novel shops, Poster and print retailers, Music and film collectable businesses, Second hand media shops, Rare media dealers, Gaming and software retailers, Licensed merchandise shops, Media publishers, Independent publishers, Magazine publishers, Book publishers, Music publishers, Digital publishers, Print media businesses, Media printers, Media duplication companies, CD and DVD duplication businesses, Packaging and fulfilment companies, Media production companies, Video production businesses, Audio production businesses, Podcast producers, Recording businesses, Photography and image libraries, Content creation companies, Media equipment retailers, Media equipment hire businesses, Media importers and exporters, Media wholesalers and distributors, Online media shops, Amazon and eBay sellers, Social media retailers, Subscription media businesses, Mail order media retailers, Drop shipping companies, Home based media businesses, Home studio businesses and Media businesses attending exhibitions and events.
The broker should receive an accurate description of every product, service, sales channel and premises. A retailer that also publishes, manufactures, imports, hires equipment or produces content may need broader protection than an ordinary shop policy.
New Used Rare and Collectable Media
A specialist retailer may stock deleted records, first edition books, signed items, film memorabilia, rare posters, vintage games and other collectable products.
These items may be difficult to replace following theft, fire or water damage. Their values can also change over time.
The broker may ask:
Relevant activities and considerations include How collectable items are valued, Whether professional valuations are available, Whether stock is owned or sold on commission, The highest value of any single item, How stock is stored and displayed, Whether secure cabinets are used, Whether items are taken to fairs or exhibitions, Whether stock is sold internationally, How authenticity is established and Whether customer property is held.
Standard stock valuation methods may not suit rare or irreplaceable media. The basis of settlement should be discussed with the broker before the policy begins.
Customer items and stock held on consignment must be declared separately. Property belonging to others should not be assumed to be covered as ordinary business stock.
Online Media Shops and Marketplace Sellers
Media products are frequently sold through ecommerce websites, online marketplaces and social media. A retailer may operate entirely online or use digital sales alongside a physical shop.
Sales channels can include:
Relevant activities and considerations include The company’s own website, Amazon, eBay, Social media shops, Specialist collectable platforms, Music marketplaces, Book marketplaces, Subscription services, Direct email orders, Click and collect, Drop shipping and Digital downloads.
Businesses selling online should review Website and Online Business Insurance.
The broker should know:
Relevant activities and considerations include Total online turnover, Products sold, Countries receiving orders, Where stock is stored, Whether fulfilment companies are used, Whether the business imports products, Whether goods carry the company’s brand, How products are packaged and dispatched, Whether digital products are sold and Whether the business drop ships goods.
A marketplace account or fulfilment company should not be assumed to provide all the protection required by the seller.
Physical Media Shops and Specialist Retailers
Traditional media shops may sell records, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, books, magazines, posters, collectables, games and licensed merchandise. Some specialise in new products, while others sell used, rare or collectable items.
Retail risks may include:
Relevant activities and considerations include Customer injuries, Theft of stock, Fire or water damage, Damage to shop fittings, Breakage of shop front glass, Failure of electronic tills, Employee accidents, Product liability allegations, Loss of valuable collectables and Interruption to trading.
Businesses operating from high street premises can explore Shop Insurance.
A shop requiring premises, stock, liability and interruption protection within a broader arrangement may also consider Commercial Combined Insurance.
Media retailers selling music related products may find the Music Shop Insurance and Record Shop Insurance pages relevant.
Digital Products Downloads and Subscription Sales
Some media companies sell downloadable books, music, photographs, videos, templates, courses or subscription content. These businesses may hold little physical stock but depend heavily on their websites, software and digital files.
Their risks can include:
Relevant activities and considerations include Website failure, Corrupted digital files, Customer data breaches, Payment fraud, Copyright disputes, Content errors, Failed downloads, Subscription billing problems, Loss of access to online platforms, Cyber extortion and Business interruption.
The broker should understand whether the business sells its own content, third party licensed content or a combination of both.
Contracts with hosting companies, software providers and distribution platforms should be reviewed. A platform failure may not be protected unless a relevant dependency extension applies.
Books Magazines Comics Posters and Printed Media
A media shop may sell books, magazines, comics, graphic novels, posters, photographs, art prints, calendars and other printed products. Some businesses also commission, publish or print their own ranges.
Printed stock can be particularly vulnerable to:
Relevant activities and considerations include Fire, Smoke, Escape of water, Flooding, Damp, Theft, Accidental damage, Poor storage conditions and Damage during delivery.
A relatively small escape of water could damage large amounts of paper stock. Businesses should accurately calculate their maximum stock value and consider seasonal increases, special editions and large deliveries.
Publishers and own brand sellers should also explain whether they control the design, written content, printing, packaging or distribution of the products.
Publishing Production Printing Equipment And Digital Risks
Publishers, producers, printers and content businesses can combine professional services, intellectual property, specialist technology, customer property and physical production. These exposures should be described together.
Media Publishers and Content Owners
Media publishers can produce books, magazines, music, podcasts, videos, digital downloads, educational resources and subscription content. Their risks can extend beyond physical property.
A publisher may face allegations involving:
Relevant activities and considerations include Copyright infringement, Trademark infringement, Defamation, Misuse of photographs or video, Breach of confidentiality, Incorrect information, Missed publication deadlines, Loss of client material, Errors in commissioned content and Failure to obtain suitable permissions.
Professional Indemnity Insurance may be relevant when an alleged professional error, omission or failure causes a client financial loss.
Media liability, intellectual property and defamation risks can require specialist protection. These exposures should not be assumed to form part of an ordinary shop or public liability policy.
The broker may need details of:
Relevant activities and considerations include Content produced or published, Editorial controls, Use of freelance contributors, Rights clearance procedures, Countries where content is available, Turnover from publishing, Contracts with contributors and clients, Previous disputes, Correction and complaints procedures and Legal review arrangements.
Businesses should retain written permissions, contributor agreements, licences and records showing where images, music and written material were obtained.
Intellectual Property Copyright and Media Liability
A media business may use music, photography, illustrations, written material, logos, trademarks, video and performances belonging to other people.
An allegation could arise if the business:
Relevant activities and considerations include Publishes an image without permission, Uses music without an appropriate licence, Reproduces copyrighted text, Sells unlicensed merchandise, Makes an allegedly defamatory statement, Uses a similar brand or title, Publishes confidential information, Fails to credit a contributor and Exceeds the terms of a content licence.
Professional indemnity, media liability and intellectual property protection are not identical. A specialist broker should understand the exact media produced and the countries in which it is published.
Business Legal Expenses Insurance may provide assistance with selected insured disputes, but it should not be assumed to cover every copyright or intellectual property matter.
Known disputes and circumstances arising before the policy starts will normally be excluded.
Printing Duplication Packaging and Manufacturing
Media businesses may print books, posters and promotional materials or duplicate recordings onto physical products. They may also package items, produce branded merchandise or manufacture specialist media products.
These operations can introduce risks involving:
Relevant activities and considerations include Printing presses, Cutting machinery, Binding equipment, Duplication machines, Packing equipment, Inks and adhesives, Raw materials, Work in progress, Finished stock, Machinery breakdown, Employee injuries, Fire and Production interruption.
Businesses carrying out production should consider Manufacturers Insurance.
Larger production premises may also require Factory Insurance and Plant and Machinery Insurance.
The broker may ask for:
Relevant activities and considerations include Machinery descriptions and values, Production processes, Materials and chemicals used, Maintenance arrangements, Fire precautions, Extraction systems, Quality control procedures, Maximum production values, Employee activities and Details of subcontracted manufacturing.
Machinery breakdown and interruption following machinery failure may require specific protection.
Cyber Insurance for Media Businesses
Media retailers and publishers can hold customer details, payment information, mailing lists, subscriber records, unreleased content and valuable digital assets.
A cyber incident could:
Relevant activities and considerations include Disable an ecommerce website, Interrupt digital subscriptions, Expose customer information, Corrupt media files, Prevent access to stock systems, Disrupt electronic payments, Lock editing or production systems, Result in fraudulent payments, Delay publication and Damage the company’s reputation.
Cyber Insurance may provide access to specialist incident response and selected financial protection, subject to the policy terms.
Insurers may ask about:
Relevant activities and considerations include Multifactor authentication, Data backups, Software updates, Payment security, Staff training, Access controls, Encryption, Incident response procedures and Previous cyber events.
Backing up media files does not remove the need for cyber security. Backups should be protected and tested regularly.
Media Equipment Hire and Customer Property
Some media shops hire cameras, projectors, audio equipment, lighting, recording equipment or playback devices. Others accept customer property for repair, conversion, duplication or digitisation.
Equipment hire businesses can consider Equipment Hire Business Insurance.
The broker should understand:
Relevant activities and considerations include Equipment types and values, Hire periods, Customer vetting, Deposits, Written hire contracts, Theft protections, Overseas use, Unattended vehicle exposure, Damage caused by customers, Continuing hire charges and Property belonging to customers.
Customer property and hired out equipment should not be assumed to be covered as ordinary contents.
Businesses repairing or retailing electronic media equipment may also find Electronics Shop Insurance and Photographic Equipment Repairs and Retail Insurance useful.
Audio Video Podcast and Digital Production
Some media retailers also create audio, video or podcast content. Others operate studios alongside their shop or online business.
Production equipment can include:
Relevant activities and considerations include Cameras, Lenses, Lighting, Microphones, Mixing desks, Computers, Editing systems, Recording equipment, Monitors, Portable equipment, Storage drives and Studio furniture.
Businesses using dedicated premises can explore Studio Insurance, Recording Studio Insurance and Podcast Studio Insurance.
The broker should know whether equipment remains at the premises, travels to locations, is hired to customers or belongs to freelancers.
Portable equipment away from the main premises may require specific protection. Theft from an unattended vehicle can be subject to restrictions and security conditions.
Specialist Insurance Support For A Complete Media Business
Quote Monkey can introduce media shops, publishers, producers, printers, importers, wholesalers and online sellers to a specialist broker who can discuss available insurance options for the complete business.
Liability Property Stock Storage Transport Events And Continuity
The protection considered may need to follow staff, customers, products, equipment and stock across shops, studios, warehouses, home workplaces, events, vehicles and delivery networks.
Importing Wholesaling And Distribution
Media products may be manufactured, licensed or sourced from businesses throughout the world. Importers can face responsibilities that are different from those of a retailer purchasing established products from a UK wholesaler.
Businesses importing records, films, books, games, electrical items or licensed merchandise should explore Importers and Exporters Insurance.
The broker may need:
Relevant activities and considerations include Countries of origin, Supplier details, Product descriptions, Annual import values, Safety and compliance information, Licensing arrangements, Quality control procedures, Territories where products are sold, Whether products carry the company’s brand and Claims and recall history.
Businesses supplying other retailers may also find Wholesaler Insurance and Distributor Insurance relevant.
Overseas sales, particularly sales into the United States or Canada, must be disclosed and may require specific insurer agreement.
Public Liability And Customer Risks
A media shop may be visited by customers, delivery drivers, artists, authors, contractors and members of the public.
Public Liability Insurance may protect the business against eligible allegations of accidental injury or property damage.
Examples could include:
Relevant activities and considerations include A customer tripping over a display, A visitor slipping on a wet floor, Stock falling from shelving, Equipment damaging an exhibition venue, A delivery causing damage at customer premises, A visitor being injured during a product launch and A temporary display obstructing a public walkway.
The broker should be told about author signings, performances, screenings, workshops, launch events, exhibitions and other activities involving members of the public.
Venues and event organisers may require a particular public liability limit.
Product Liability For Physical Media And Merchandise
Product Liability Insurance may be relevant when a business manufactures, imports, distributes or sells physical products.
This can include:
Relevant activities and considerations include Books and printed products, Records CDs DVDs and Blu-rays, Games and software supplied on physical media, Posters and framed prints, Branded merchandise, Electrical media equipment, Headphones and accessories, Imported collectables and Packaging and promotional products.
The business should disclose whether it manufactures, imports, repackages, modifies or applies its own branding to products.
Product liability generally concerns allegations of injury or property damage. It may not automatically pay for refunds, replacement products, faulty content or the cost of recalling items.
Employers Liability And Freelance Workers
A media business may employ:
Relevant activities and considerations include Shop assistants, Warehouse workers, Editors, Designers, Printers, Production staff, Camera operators, Sound engineers, Drivers, Administrative staff, Temporary event workers and Apprentices.
Employers Liability Insurance is generally required when a business employs people, subject to limited legal exceptions.
The distinction between employees, freelancers and subcontractors should be explained to the broker. Calling someone self employed does not automatically determine their status for insurance purposes.
Possible workplace risks include manual handling injuries, slips, electrical accidents, machinery injuries, falls and repetitive computer work.
Media Equipment Contents And Stock
Media businesses may depend on valuable computers, printing equipment, cameras, editing systems and specialist stock.
Business Contents Insurance may protect declared equipment kept at the insured premises.
Business Stock Insurance may protect physical media products, merchandise, packaging, raw materials and finished items against selected insured events.
The business should consider:
Relevant activities and considerations include Maximum stock value, Rare and collectable items, Customer property, Consignment stock, Hired equipment, Portable equipment, Seasonal increases, Stock at events, Stock stored at home, Stock held by fulfilment companies and Equipment temporarily away from the premises.
Data, digital content and intellectual property may not be treated as ordinary physical stock. Specialist protection and reliable backups can be required.
Working From Home And Home Studios
Many publishers, designers, online retailers, podcasters and content creators operate from home. They may keep stock in a spare room, work from a converted garage or use an outbuilding as a studio.
Household insurance may not protect:
Relevant activities and considerations include Business computers, Studio equipment, Commercial stock, Customer property, Business liabilities, Employees, Customer visits and Regular courier collections.
Home based businesses can explore Working From Home Insurance and Home Studio Insurance.
The household insurer should also be informed about commercial use of the property.
The broker should know which rooms and outbuildings are used, what equipment and stock are kept there and whether customers, contributors, employees or couriers visit.
Warehouses Commercial Storage And Self Storage
A media company may hold products in a shop, warehouse, office, studio, fulfilment centre, self storage unit or the owner’s home. Every location must be declared.
Businesses with dedicated warehouse premises can explore Warehouse Insurance.
Companies operating from distribution compounds may also find Commercial Storage Depot and Yard Insurance relevant.
Businesses using rented storage units should review Business Goods and Stock in Self Storage.
The broker may require:
Relevant activities and considerations include Full storage addresses, Construction details, Fire and security protections, Maximum values, Racking arrangements, Heating and moisture controls, Whether customers visit, Whether employees work there, Whether orders are packed on site and Whether stock belongs to other people.
Paper products, records, electronic media and collectables can be particularly vulnerable to heat, damp, water and smoke.
Businesses that own operational premises can also review Commercial Property Insurance. Owners letting media shops, studios, offices or warehouses should consider the separate Commercial Property Owners Insurance guidance.
Deliveries Goods In Transit Vehicles And Fleets
Physical media products can be transported between printers, manufacturers, warehouses, shops, events and customers.
Goods in Transit Insurance may protect declared goods while they are being transported, subject to policy conditions.
The broker should know:
Relevant activities and considerations include Who owns the goods, Who carries them, Maximum values in transit, Types of products transported, Packaging arrangements, Use of couriers, Overnight vehicle storage, Overseas shipments and Whether collectable items are carried.
Businesses operating delivery vans should consider Commercial Vehicle Insurance.
Companies with several cars or vans may also explore Motor Fleet Insurance.
Vehicle insurance does not necessarily protect the products or equipment carried inside the vehicle.
Business Interruption And Continuity Planning
A media shop or production company can lose income following a fire, flood, theft, machinery breakdown or other insured incident.
Business Interruption Insurance may help protect insured income and continuing expenses while the business recovers.
A media company should consider how long it could take to:
Relevant activities and considerations include Repair a shop or studio, Replace specialist equipment, Reprint damaged publications, Recreate damaged stock, Restore production systems, Move to temporary premises, Recover customer confidence, Replace lost suppliers and Rebuild an ecommerce operation.
Cyber related interruption normally requires cyber protection. Machinery related interruption may also need a specific extension.
The indemnity period should reflect a realistic recovery time rather than the shortest option available.
Events Launches Exhibitions And Pop Up Shops
Media retailers and publishers may attend book fairs, record fairs, gaming events, exhibitions, festivals, launches and temporary markets.
Insurance may need to account for:
Relevant activities and considerations include Stock away from the shop, Portable displays, Equipment at events, Public liability, Employee activities, Money, Theft, Goods in transit, Temporary premises and Demonstrations and performances.
Event organisers may ask for evidence of public liability insurance. The business should disclose how frequently it attends events, the maximum stock taken and whether activities include performances, workshops or screenings.
Media Business Risks Claims And Specialist Insurance Reviews
The following examples illustrate realistic incidents. Whether any claim is insured depends on the selected sections, policy wording, declared activities, limits, conditions, exclusions and the circumstances of the loss.
A Customer Trips Over a Media Display
A customer trips over a temporary display in a media shop and suffers an injury. They allege that the display obstructed the walkway and that the shop failed to provide a safe environment.
Public liability insurance may respond to an eligible allegation and associated legal costs, subject to the policy wording.
Photographs, accident reports, CCTV and staff statements could help the insurer investigate.
Water Damages Books Records and Collectable Stock
A pipe bursts above a stockroom overnight. Water damages books, record sleeves, magazines, posters and collectable products.
Stock insurance may respond to insured physical damage. Business interruption insurance may also help if the company cannot fulfil orders or use the premises while repairs are completed.
The insurer will consider the declared stock value, storage arrangements and any applicable precautions.
A Publisher Faces a Copyright Allegation
An independent publisher uses an image in a new publication believing that suitable permission was obtained. The photographer later alleges that the licence did not permit commercial use.
Professional indemnity, media liability or intellectual property protection may respond, depending on the selected wording.
Public liability insurance should not be assumed to cover copyright disputes.
A Cyberattack Exposes Subscriber Information
A digital publisher suffers a cyberattack that affects its subscription platform. Customer details may have been accessed, and the website is unavailable for several days.
Cyber insurance may provide specialist incident response and selected financial protection. This could include forensic investigation, data restoration, notification support and insured interruption costs, depending on the policy.
An Imported Media Device Causes an Injury
A retailer imports headphones and electronic accessories directly from an overseas supplier. A device overheats and allegedly injures a customer.
The UK importer may face the allegation even though it did not manufacture the product.
Product liability insurance may respond, subject to the products, importing activities and countries of origin having been accurately declared.
Printing Machinery Breaks Down
An internal mechanical failure damages a digital printing machine shortly before an important publication deadline. The business must outsource production and pay additional costs to complete the order.
Machinery breakdown protection may respond to eligible physical damage. Business interruption following machinery breakdown may require a specific extension.
Wear, deterioration and inadequate maintenance are commonly excluded.
Cameras and Recording Equipment Are Stolen
A production team leaves cameras, lenses and recording equipment secured in a vehicle while travelling between locations. The vehicle is broken into and the equipment is stolen.
Portable equipment protection may respond if the policy includes theft from vehicles and all relevant security conditions were followed.
Some policies restrict overnight or unattended vehicle theft.
Fire Interrupts a Media Warehouse
A fire damages a warehouse containing books, records, games, packaging materials and customer orders. The business cannot dispatch products while alternative storage and fulfilment arrangements are organised.
Property and stock insurance may help with insured physical damage. Business interruption protection may help with selected lost income and additional operating costs during recovery.
The response will depend on declared stock values, fire protections and policy conditions.
Find Insurance For Your Media Shop Or Media Business
Tell us about your retail, publishing, production, printing, importing, hire, storage, delivery and online activities. Quote Monkey can introduce the enquiry to a specialist broker experienced in arranging insurance for media businesses.
Media Shop And Media Business Insurance FAQs
What is media shop insurance?▼
Media shop insurance is commercial protection arranged around the activities of a media retailer or related business.
It may combine cover for premises, contents, stock, liabilities, publishing, equipment, online sales, cyber incidents, storage and business interruption.
There is no single standard policy suitable for every media business.
What types of media can be included?▼
A business may sell books, magazines, comics, records, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, games, software, posters, prints, licensed merchandise, collectables and digital content.
Every product category should be disclosed. Electrical products, imported merchandise, rare stock and own brand goods can require additional information.
Can independent publishers use this page?▼
Yes. The page can be relevant to book, magazine, music, comic, educational and digital publishers.
Publishers should describe their content, editorial processes, contributors, rights clearance procedures, customer contracts and publication territories.
Professional indemnity and specialist media liability may be particularly important.
Does a media shop need public liability insurance?▼
Public liability is not normally a general legal requirement, but it can be important for any business visited by customers, suppliers, couriers and members of the public.
It may protect against eligible allegations of accidental injury or property damage.
Landlords, event organisers and commercial customers may require a specified limit.
What public liability limit might be required?▼
Limits can include £1 million, £2 million, £5 million or higher, depending on insurer availability and contractual requirements.
The appropriate limit can be influenced by the premises, customer numbers, events attended and work undertaken away from the shop.
A broker can help the business consider a suitable option.
Does a media business need employers liability insurance?▼
Employers liability is generally required when a business employs people, subject to limited legal exceptions.
It can apply to permanent, part time, temporary and casual employees. It may also apply to apprentices, work experience students and some subcontractors.
The working relationship should be explained accurately.
Are freelancers covered as employees?▼
Not automatically. The way a freelancer is treated can depend on how they work, who directs them and whether they provide their own equipment and insurance.
Media businesses should disclose their use of freelance writers, photographers, designers, editors and production staff.
Freelancers may need their own professional and liability insurance.
Does a media retailer need product liability insurance?▼
Product liability can be important when a business manufactures, imports, distributes or sells physical products.
It may respond to eligible allegations that a product caused injury or property damage.
The insurer will need complete information about imported, own brand, modified and electrical products.
Does product liability protect faulty content?▼
Product liability generally concerns physical products causing injury or property damage. It may not protect allegations involving inaccurate writing, defective digital content, missed deadlines or copyright infringement.
Professional indemnity or specialist media liability may be required for content related risks.
Can imported products be insured?▼
Imported products may be considered, but the business must disclose countries of origin, suppliers, product types, testing, safety documentation and annual values.
Importers can carry responsibilities similar to manufacturers.
Products sourced outside the UK should not be described simply as ordinary retail stock.
Can own brand media products be covered?▼
Own brand books, merchandise, electronics and promotional products may be considered.
The broker will need to know who manufactures them, where production takes place, whose name appears on the product and how quality is controlled.
The company should retain contracts, testing records and supplier insurance details.
What does professional indemnity cover?▼
Professional indemnity may protect a business against eligible allegations that its professional error, omission or failure caused a client financial loss.
It can be relevant to publishers, editors, designers, writers, photographers, producers and consultants.
The exact services and contracts must be disclosed.
Is copyright infringement insured?▼
Some professional indemnity or specialist media liability policies may include selected intellectual property allegations, but protection varies considerably.
Copyright cover should never be assumed.
The broker should know what content the company creates, licenses, publishes and distributes.
Can defamation allegations be covered?▼
Specialist media liability may be available for allegations involving libel, slander, privacy and published content.
Availability will depend on the content, editorial controls, territories and previous disputes.
Known disputes or circumstances will normally be excluded.
Are legal expenses and media liability the same?▼
No. Business legal expenses may assist with selected employment, contract, property or tax disputes.
Media liability is designed around content related allegations such as defamation, privacy or intellectual property matters.
One should not be treated as a replacement for the other.
Can rare records books and collectables be insured?▼
Rare stock may be insurable, but the insurer will require appropriate values and storage information.
Professional valuations, purchase records, photographs and catalogues may be useful.
The basis of settlement should be agreed because some items may be difficult or impossible to replace.
Is customer property covered?▼
Property belonging to customers is not always included automatically.
The business should disclose whether it accepts manuscripts, recordings, photographs, storage drives, equipment or collectables for repair, duplication, conversion or sale.
The maximum value held at any one time will be important.
Can equipment used away from the premises be covered?▼
Portable cameras, laptops, lighting and recording equipment may be insured away from the main premises if suitable protection is selected.
The broker will need values, territories, transport arrangements and details of unattended vehicle exposure.
Overseas use may require specific agreement.
Is theft from a vehicle covered?▼
Some policies can include theft of equipment or stock from a vehicle, but strict conditions often apply.
These may relate to locks, alarms, concealed storage, parking locations and overnight periods.
The exact conditions should be checked before equipment is left unattended.
Can hired equipment be covered?▼
Equipment hired or leased by the business may be included when declared.
The broker will need the equipment values, hire periods and contractual responsibilities.
Continuing hire charges and theft by deception may require separate consideration.
Can equipment hired to customers be insured?▼
Media equipment hire can be considered, but the insurer will require details of the products, customer checks, contracts, deposits, maintenance and security.
Ordinary contents insurance may stop when equipment is hired out.
The hire activity must be specifically declared.
Can printing machinery be insured?▼
Printing, binding, cutting, duplication and packaging machinery may be included within declared contents or plant protection.
Internal mechanical or electrical breakdown may require separate machinery breakdown insurance.
Age, value, maintenance and replacement lead times will be relevant.
Is machinery breakdown included automatically?▼
Not necessarily. Property insurance may protect equipment against fire, flood or theft but exclude internal breakdown.
Machinery breakdown protection may cover selected sudden mechanical or electrical damage.
Wear, gradual deterioration and inadequate maintenance are commonly excluded.
Can an online media shop obtain insurance?▼
Yes. Online retailers should disclose their website, marketplaces, products, turnover, storage, fulfilment and delivery arrangements.
Imported products, own brand goods, international sales and digital downloads must also be declared.
Online marketplace requirements do not replace the need for suitable business protection.
Can Amazon and eBay sellers be covered?▼
Amazon and eBay sellers may be considered, subject to their products and sourcing arrangements.
The broker will need online turnover, product types, countries of origin, destination countries and fulfilment details.
The business should disclose every marketplace used.
Can a drop shipping media business be insured?▼
Drop shipping businesses may be considered by some insurers.
The seller should provide details of suppliers, manufacturing countries, products, quality controls, branding and customer territories.
The fact that another business dispatches the goods does not necessarily remove the seller’s responsibilities.
Can digital downloads and subscriptions be included?▼
Digital media sales and subscriptions may be included in the business description.
The broker should understand what content is sold, who owns it, how it is delivered and what customer information is stored.
Cyber, professional indemnity and media liability may be more relevant than physical stock protection.
Does a media business need cyber insurance?▼
Cyber insurance may be important when a company relies on websites, electronic payments, subscriber records, digital media files and production systems.
A cyber incident could interrupt trading, expose customer information or corrupt valuable content.
Cyber related interruption should not be assumed to form part of standard property insurance.
Can a home based media business be insured?▼
Home based publishers, sellers, podcasters and producers may be able to insure their equipment, stock, liabilities and online activities.
The broker should know which rooms or outbuildings are used and whether customers, employees or couriers visit.
The household insurer should also be informed about the business.
Can stock in a self storage unit be covered?▼
Business stock held in an approved self storage unit may be considered when its location, value and security are declared.
The storage provider’s protection may not cover the full value of the goods.
The business should also check whether packing orders or employing staff inside the unit is permitted.
Can stock at a fulfilment centre be insured?▼
Stock held by a fulfilment company may require specific protection.
The broker will need the fulfilment centre address, maximum stock value, products stored and contractual responsibilities.
The fulfilment company’s own insurance should not be assumed to protect the retailer.
Are goods covered while being delivered?▼
Goods in transit insurance may protect products transported by the business or a courier, subject to the selected terms.
The broker should know the maximum value in transit, product types, carriers and overseas destinations.
Commercial vehicle insurance does not necessarily cover the goods inside the vehicle.
Can stock and equipment at exhibitions be covered?▼
Stock, equipment and displays taken to fairs, conventions and exhibitions may be covered if activities away from the main premises are declared.
The insurer may ask about event frequency, locations, maximum values and overnight security.
Public liability may also be required by the organiser.
Can author signings screenings and launch events be included?▼
These events may be considered, but the broker should know their frequency, attendance, activities and venues.
Live music, performances, alcohol, large crowds or event organisation can require additional information.
A conventional shop policy should not be assumed to include every event automatically.
What information will a broker need?▼
The business should be ready to provide:
Relevant activities and considerations include A complete business description, Retail and online turnover, Content and professional services, Products manufactured imported or sold, Countries of origin and sale, Premises and storage locations, Buildings contents equipment and stock values, Highest value collectable items, Employees and freelancers, Equipment used away from the premises, Customer property, Publishing and rights clearance procedures, Events and exhibitions, Delivery arrangements and Previous claims and disputes.
Complete information helps the broker present the risk accurately.
Will every insurer accept a media business?▼
No. Insurer appetite varies, particularly for publishers, media producers, importers, equipment hire businesses and companies producing sensitive content.
Quote Monkey can introduce media businesses to brokers experienced in specialist commercial risks.
Acceptance, premiums, limits, excesses, conditions and exclusions remain subject to underwriting.
Similar Policy Types
Shop Insurance
Protection to consider for customer facing premises, shop contents, stock, liabilities and interruption.
Commercial Combined Insurance
A flexible option for media businesses requiring several commercial covers within one programme.
Business Contents Insurance
Protection for computers, studio equipment, printing machinery, furnishings and other business property.
Business Stock Insurance
Protection for books, records, films, games, collectables, merchandise and production materials.
Business Interruption Insurance
Protection that may assist with insured income loss and continuing expenses after an insured incident.
Public Liability Insurance
Protection for eligible allegations involving accidental third party injury or property damage.
Employers Liability Insurance
Important protection for businesses employing retail, office, warehouse, production or event workers.
Product Liability Insurance
Protection to consider when manufacturing, importing, distributing or selling physical media and merchandise.
Professional Indemnity Insurance
Relevant to publishers, editors, designers, producers and other businesses providing professional media services.
Cyber Insurance
Protection for businesses relying on websites, electronic payments, subscriber information and digital content.
Equipment Hire Business Insurance
For companies hiring cameras, recording systems, projectors and other media equipment to customers.
Business Legal Expenses Insurance
Access to selected legal support for insured employment, property, contract and regulatory disputes.
Related Industry Pages
Movie Rental Shop Insurance
For businesses renting films, physical media, entertainment products and related equipment.
Photocopying Shop Insurance
For copying, printing, document production, finishing and customer service businesses.
Camera Shop Insurance
For retailers selling cameras, lenses, accessories and related photographic products.
Toy and Game Shop Insurance
For physical and online retailers selling games, toys, collectables and entertainment products.
Photography Studio Insurance
For photographers operating from studios and using cameras, lighting and specialist equipment.
Photographer Public Liability Insurance
For photographers working at studios, venues, events, businesses and customer locations.
Photographer Professional Indemnity Insurance
For allegations involving professional photography services, errors and client financial losses.
Picture Framer and Retailer Insurance
For framing workshops, picture retailers, display stock and customer property.
Television Repair Shop Insurance
For television repairers, electronic retailers, mobile technicians and home based businesses.
Film and Television Production Contractor Insurance
For contractors and businesses providing services to film and television productions.
Writer Professional Indemnity Insurance
For writers, authors, copywriters and content businesses facing professional allegations.
Authors Public Liability Insurance
For authors attending readings, signings, workshops, festivals and public events.
Other Quote Monkey Pages
Canyoning Business Guide and Club Insurance
Specialist protection for canyoning businesses, instructors, guides, activity providers and clubs.
Rugby Liability Insurance
Liability options for rugby clubs, coaches, organisers and related sporting activities.
Mattress Manufacturer Importer Retailer and Showroom Insurance
For mattress manufacturers, importers, shops, warehouses, showrooms and online sellers.
Candle Makers Insurance
For candle manufacturers and sellers requiring protection for products, stock, fire risks and online sales.
Watermill Business Insurance
Specialist considerations for commercial businesses operating from historic watermill premises.
Hair Braiding Public Liability Insurance
For hair braiders working from salons, homes, mobile locations and temporary venues.
Scissor Lift Insurance
For owners, operators, contractors and hire firms using scissor lift access equipment.
Pudding Manufacturer and Shop Insurance
For pudding producers, shops, wholesalers, caterers and online food sellers.
Garage Door Manufacturers Insurance
For garage door manufacturers, suppliers, installers and businesses using production machinery.
Converted Chapel Insurance
Property insurance considerations for chapels converted into homes, businesses or mixed use premises.
Jam Preserve Marmalade and Chutney Maker and Retailer Insurance
For preserve manufacturers, retailers, market traders, online sellers and home producers.
Henna Artist Public Liability Insurance
For henna artists working at salons, homes, weddings, festivals and public events.