The South African film and event industries are thriving hubs of creativity and ambition. From blockbuster movies to unforgettable festivals, these productions bring stories to life and create lasting memories. However, the behind-the-scenes reality often involves navigating unpredictable risks, from sudden weather disruptions to stolen equipment. That’s where insurance steps in, providing a safety net for when the unexpected happens.
At KEU Underwriting Managers, we’ve spent more than two decades specialising in insurance solutions for the film and event sectors. As the longest-standing insurer in this space, we’ve earned a reputation for being reliable, proactive, and dedicated to paying claims when they matter most. Our role is simple: to ensure that brokers and their clients have the confidence to take creative risks, knowing they’re backed by comprehensive cover.
The Most Common Claims in Film and Events
Insurance claims are an unavoidable reality in industries as dynamic as film and events. Through years of experience, we’ve identified recurring risks that highlight just how crucial the right insurance solutions are.
- Equipment Theft or Damage
Whether it’s a film crew shooting in a remote location or an event organiser managing sound and lighting systems, equipment theft and damage are all-too-common challenges.
For example, a music festival in Durban faced a major setback when critical audio equipment was damaged during transportation. Thanks to our Equipment All Risk Insurance Solution , the organisers avoided financial losses and ensured the show went on. Similarly, a film production in Johannesburg was disrupted when their high-value camera equipment was stolen on set. Our bespoke cover helped them replace the stolen gear and minimise downtime.
- Weather Disruptions
South Africa’s diverse landscapes make it a prime destination for outdoor shoots and large-scale events, but the weather doesn’t always cooperate.
During a major sporting event in Gauteng, an unexpected storm caused flooding that forced the venue to close, leading to the event’s cancellation. KEU stepped in to cover the organisers’ financial losses, including ticket refunds and pre-paid supplier costs. On the film side, a production in the Western Cape faced delays when heavy rains disrupted outdoor scenes following damages to props and infrastructure. With KEU’s Event Cancellation and Film ProducersInsurance Solutions, the repair and replacement costs for the props were covered as well as delayed filming days, allowing the production to stay on budget.
- Loss of Footage or Event Materials
The loss of recorded footage or critical event materials can derail even the most well-planned projects.
A high-profile fashion show in Cape Town lost key promotional footage due to a technical failure, jeopardising their post-event marketing. Our tailored cover ensured the organisers could recover costs associated with recreating the material. Similarly, a film crew experienced a power surge that corrupted vital footage. With our insurance solutions, the production team was able to reshoot the scenes without compromising their schedule.
- On-Site Injuries
Film sets and event venues are complex environments, often involving heavy equipment, intricate setups, and high-energy performances. Accidents, unfortunately, are not uncommon.
At a community festival, a performer was injured during a stage performance, resulting in medical expenses and liability concerns. Our Event Liability Insurance Solution ensured the organiser’s finances and reputation were protected.
Meanwhile, on a film set, a stunt performer sustained an injury during an action sequence. Our quick response covered medical costs and allowed filming to continue without significant delays.
KEU’s Claims Track Record
At KEU, paying claims is at the heart of what we do. Over the past three years, we’ve processed an impressive average of 874 claims annually, with a consistent focus on fairness and efficiency.
In 2024, we managed 876 claims with only 34 repudiations. The previous year, in 2023, we processed 869 claims with just 13 repudiations, and in 2022, we handled 877 claims with 17 repudiations. These numbers highlight our dedication to supporting brokers and their clients when it matters most, reinforcing our reputation as a trusted partner in the industry.
In 2024, we settled an R11 million claim arising from an artist’s non-appearance on a Netflix production. This represents our largest single loss outside of Covid-related claims.
Mitigating Risks for Films and Events
While insurance is there for when things go wrong, at KEU, we believe in proactive risk management to help brokers and their clients avoid claims altogether. Here are some of the strategies we recommend:
- Enhanced Equipment Security: Encourage the use of GPS trackers, on-site security, and robust handling protocols.
- Weather Contingency Planning: Have alternate locations and schedules in place to account for unpredictable conditions.
- Backup Systems: Leverage cloud storage and redundant systems for critical footage or materials.
- Safety Protocols: Ensure proper safety briefings, trained personnel, and adherence to industry standards.
By working hand-in-hand with brokers, we help their clients take practical steps to reduce risks and safeguard their projects.
Why KEU is the Trusted Name in Film and Events
At KEU, we don’t just offer insurance; we offer peace of mind. With more than two decades of experience, we’ve become the longest-standing insurer in the South African film and event industries. Our tailored solutions address the unique challenges faced by these sectors, and our proactive approach to risk management sets us apart.
Whether it’s helping a film crew replace stolen equipment or ensuring an event organiser can recover from a weather-related cancellation, KEU is committed to being a reliable partner. We’re not just here to provide cover, we’re here to ensure that creativity and ambition are never compromised by the unexpected.
The film and event industries thrive on passion, creativity, and hard work, but they also face significant risks. That’s why having the right insurance is so important. At KEU Underwriting Managers, we’ve spent over 20 years ensuring that brokers and their clients can navigate these challenges with confidence.
From paying claims to mitigating risks, we’re more than just an insurer, we’re a partner in every creative endeavour. Together, we’re building a safer, stronger future for South Africa’s vibrant film and event industries.
