What kind of events can John Lewis Event Insurance cover?

John Lewis Event Insurance can only be taken out to cover events where guests are invited and do not have to pay to attend – they should be celebrating a specific individual or family member’s event. For example:

• Bar Mitzvahs
• Birthday parties
• Family parties
• Private functions
• Wedding anniversaries
• Retirement party
• Christenings

We can’t offer cover for any events that are more commercial, specifically ones where payment is to be taken.  For example:

• Sporting events
• Barn dances
• Village fetes

If I've already arranged part of my event or paid deposits for things before taking out my policy, will I still be covered?

Yes, with John Lewis Event Insurance anything you've already booked or paid for will be covered.

If I have to cancel an event because of a pre-existing medical condition, will I be covered?

Yes, there are no restrictions relating to pre-existing medical conditions in the John Lewis Event Insurance policy.

Who is covered under the 'Public Liability' section of my policy?

The person responsible for organising the event. He or she is protected against being sued by a guest for accidental injury to third parties, or the accidental loss of or damage to third party property.

What does 'Cancellation Cover' protect me against?

If you or your event organiser have to cancel your event, it covers you for any deposits or costs that you can't get back.

However, the reason for cancelling has to be listed in your policy as an insurable one. This includes event staff not turning up because of adverse weather conditions as well as the caterers, speakers, musicians etc (if no suitable replacement is available).

Your Cancellation Cover also includes costs involved in having to rearrange the event somewhere else, if your original venue can't host it. This could be due to an outbreak of food poisoning, or defects in the drains or sanitary facilities.

Can you cover my event if it takes place abroad?

Unfortunately, John Lewis Event Insurance will only cover your event if it takes place within the UK, Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.

How long can I insure my event for?

You can insure your event for up to a maximum of 72 hours (three days).

How long before my event should I take out an insurance policy?

We recommend that you take it out as soon as you've paid for any part of the event, so that your deposits are covered.

Can anyone take out an event policy?

Yes, as long as they have a financial interest in the event, like the organiser or the person who is paying the main cost of the event. They must be aged between 18 and 75.

Can I take out marquee cover on its own?

Unfortunately no: marquee cover does have to be bought with John Lewis Event Insurance.