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General Liability Insurance for Videographers in New York: State Requirements and Average Costs
General liability insurance for videographers in New York: when you need it, what it covers, and average costs.
Written by
Editorial Team
Reviewed by
James T. Whitfield
General liability insurance is the foundation of business insurance for New York videographers. It covers third-party bodily injury and property damage claims arising from your shoots and business operations. New York does not require videographers to carry GL by state law, but NYC film permits, event venues, corporate clients, and building management companies universally require GL certificates. New York's litigation environment makes GL premiums the highest in the country for videographers, but the coverage is non-negotiable for working in the state's film, event, and corporate video markets.
Quick Answer
Estimated general liability premiums for New York videographers:
| Videographer Type | Estimated Annual GL Premium |
|---|---|
| Solo videographer | $500 to $1,050 per year |
| Small production company (2 to 5 crew) | $950 to $2,100 per year |
New York videographer GL premiums are among the highest in the country, reflecting the state's plaintiff-favorable litigation environment.
What GL Covers for New York Videographers
Third-Party Bodily Injury
Covers claims from clients, venue staff, or event guests who are injured in connection with your videography work. Common examples: a guest who trips over your equipment cable, a client injured by a falling light stand, or a third party injured at a location shoot.
Third-Party Property Damage
Covers damage to a client's or venue's property that occurs during your shoot.
Defense Costs
GL covers attorney fees, court costs, and settlement amounts for covered claims, even if the claim is unfounded. In New York, where plaintiff attorneys pursue premises liability claims aggressively, defense cost coverage is particularly valuable.
What GL Does Not Cover for New York Videographers
Professional Errors
GL excludes claims arising from professional negligence. If a client claims you missed key shots or delivered substandard footage, GL will not respond. Professional liability insurance covers those claims.
Your Own Equipment
GL covers damage to clients' and venues' property, not your own cameras, lenses, or audio equipment. Inland marine insurance covers your own business equipment.
Copyright and Intellectual Property Claims
GL does not cover claims arising from use of copyrighted music or footage. Media liability or professional liability insurance addresses these risks.
Employee Injuries
New York requires all employers with employees to carry workers compensation. GL does not cover employee injuries.
New York-Specific Considerations
NYC Film Permit Requirements
New York City's Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME) issues film permits for shoots on NYC public property. GL certificates with minimum limits are required as part of the permit application. Most NYC film permits require $1 million per occurrence with the City of New York named as an additional insured.
Building Management Requirements
New York City building management companies and co-op boards commonly require GL certificates from video crews conducting shoots inside their buildings. Confirm access and insurance requirements with building management before scheduling any interior shoot.
Corporate and Event Market
New York's corporate video, advertising, and event production markets are among the largest in the country. Corporate clients and event venues in New York City require GL certificates with minimum limits of $1 million per occurrence and often name the client or venue as an additional insured.
Workers Compensation Mandatory
New York requires workers compensation for all employers with any employees. Production companies with any crew on payroll must carry workers comp separately from GL.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do New York videographers need general liability insurance?
New York does not require GL by state law, but NYC film permits, building management, and corporate clients universally require it.
What does GL cover for a New York videographer?
GL covers third-party bodily injury, property damage, and defense costs arising from your videography work and business operations.
Does GL cover my equipment as a New York videographer?
No. GL covers damage you cause to others' property. Inland marine (equipment floater) insurance covers your own cameras, lenses, and audio equipment.
How much does GL cost for a New York videographer?
New York videographers typically pay $500 to $1,050 per year for a solo GL policy.
What limits does the NYC film permit office require?
Most NYC film permits require $1 million per occurrence with the City of New York named as an additional insured. Confirm requirements for each specific permit application.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance or legal advice. Coverage details and costs vary by carrier and individual circumstances. Consult a licensed insurance agent and attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice. Coverage, requirements, and costs vary by state, carrier, and individual circumstances. Consult a licensed insurance agent for guidance specific to your situation.
About the author
Commercial Insurance Editorial Team
The Dareable editorial team covers commercial insurance for small business owners. Every guide is fact-checked by a licensed CIC or CPCU before publication.
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