With the gig economy booming, a growing number of UK workers are earning their income job-by-job from freelance creatives and delivery riders to stagehands and photographers at some of the year’s biggest events.
But insurance expert Craig Morgan from SJL warns that many are operating without the right protection, leaving themselves vulnerable to huge financial losses if something goes wrong on the job.
“Large-scale events like Oasis’ reunion shows, Coldplay’s Wembley dates, and the newly announced My Chemical Romance gigs attract huge crowds and tight deadlines,” says Craig.
“Behind the scenes, hundreds of freelancers are making them happen but too often, they don’t realise that if an accident happens or equipment is stolen, they could be personally liable.”
The Most Common Gaps in Cover for Gig Workers
From overlooked protections to costly oversights, here are the main ways freelancers and gig workers get caught out:
• No Professional Indemnity Insurance
If a client claims your work caused them financial loss whether through a mistake, missed deadline, or technical issue, you could be taken to court without cover to back you up.
• No Public Liability Insurance
If someone is injured or their property is damaged while you’re working, for example, a camera tripod falls into the crowd then the claim could be thousands of pounds.
• Uninsured Equipment
High-value kit like cameras, laptops, or sound gear is often uninsured, or only covered at home, not on-site at a gig or while travelling.
• No Income Protection
If illness or injury stops you working, many freelancers have no safety net meaning a single accident could wipe out weeks or even months of earnings.
• Relying on Client’s Insurance
Many freelancers assume they’re covered by the organiser’s policy, but this is rarely the case unless it’s explicitly stated in a contract.
• Not Declaring All Types of Work
If you take on a job outside your usual role, for example, a photographer also livestreaming and haven’t told your insurer, you might not be covered.
Craig says:
“Freelancers are the backbone of major events, but they can’t rely on luck. A single accident could wipe out months or years of earnings. The right insurance isn’t just a safety net, it’s essential business protection.”
Craig Morgan’s Top Tips for Protecting Yourself as a Gig Worker
1. Know What Cover You Need Before You Accept the Job
“Different gigs have different risks; a wedding photographer has different exposures to a backstage lighting technician. Tailor your cover.”
This means assessing each job individually, thinking about the potential liabilities involved, and ensuring your insurance matches the specific nature of the work.
2. Insure Your Equipment for On-Location Use
“Make sure your kit is covered anywhere you work, not just at your home address.”
Without this, a theft from your van, backstage area, or hotel room could leave you paying for replacements out of pocket.
3. Check if the Client’s Policy Includes You
“Never assume you’re covered, ask for proof in writing before you start.”
Some organisers’ policies only cover direct employees, leaving freelancers exposed if an incident happens during the job.
4. Keep Your Insurer Updated on What You Do
“If you add a new service or role, declare it straight away. It may change your premium slightly, but it could save you thousands in the long run.”
Failing to disclose changes can invalidate your policy entirely, even if the claim is unrelated to the undeclared work.
5. Use a Broker to Avoid Gaps
“A broker can help identify risks you may not have considered, especially if your work changes from week to week.”
They can also shop the market for specialist cover that isn’t available through standard comparison sites.
Craig concluded by saying: “The gig economy offers incredible opportunities but without the right insurance, one mishap could undo all your hard work. By taking a few simple steps, you can protect yourself, your reputation, and your income.”
Source: Freelancers Behind Wembley Gigs Could Be Left Unprotected Without Insurance
