When it comes to a big event there's a variety of things that might go wrong. Event Insurance covers problems such as cancellation, damage to equipment and injury to guests.

The cost will depend on the size and scope of the event, as well as the insurance company you choose. Each policy is different and you should look for one that suits the event you're holding.

Event Insurance can usually only be taken out to cover events where guests are invited and do not have to pay to attend. For example, celebrations and private parties celebrating a specific individual or family member’s event.

Events that are more commercial, specifically ones where payment is to be taken, would not usually be covered. For example, a sporting event, a barn dance or village fetes.

Illness, blocked drains, three feet of snow... sometimes your event just can't go ahead and you need to recover your expenses. Most Event Insurance includes cancellation and postponement cover. This should protect you if something unexpected happens, but look carefully at the things the policy doesn't cover before you decide.

You should also check the upper limits of the cancellation policy to make sure you'll get back all your costs.

If you're hiring equipment such as a marquee for your event, you'll want insurance in case it's damaged or vandalised. Check that this is included in your policy and that all the equipment you plan to hire will be covered. John Lewis Event Insurance offers marquee cover as an optional extra.

Will I be covered if a guest gets injured?

If someone hurts themselves at your event, you could be held responsible and face large financial and legal costs. Take out a policy that includes public liability insurance and you'll generally be covered for at least £1 million if someone gets hurt.
John Lewis Event Insurance offers you a choice of £1 million or £2 million public liability cover.

How many people are attending your event?

Small events are cheaper to insure, so make sure you have an accurate idea of the number of guests. But think twice before choosing a policy covering only your lowest estimate of guests - it may limit the amount you can claim for equipment damage and cancellation costs.

If you've started thinking about insurance late in the day, make sure the policy will cover things you bought or booked before your policy start date. With John Lewis Event Insurance, anything you've already booked or paid for will be fully covered.

If you're organising a party you'll generally only need cover for a day, but some events might last longer. Check whether this will cost more with your insurance company. John Lewis Event Insurance lasts up to three days.