The intimacy of hosting friends and family in familiar surrounding makes backyard weddings extra special. Plus, you save money on the venue. Wedding planning requires attention to detail but there’s one detail not to overlook: liability insurance on your property. Believe it or not, intimate backyard celebrations are also a liability risk. No, it’s not the most exciting item on your to-do list but it’s an important one.

Is Your Homeowner’s Policy Enough?

The first thing you want to do is revisit your home insurance policy in advance of the big day. Having extensive insurance and liability experience, brokers can spot holes in your home policy coverage and help you fill them.
People often assume that, in the event of a calamity, their homeowner’s policy will protect them. They don’t consider all the pitfalls of boisterous events on their property, especially when there’s alcohol involved. Serving wine, beer and spirits at events statistically increases the chance of accidents or damage, which is why you want to ask your broker about liquor liability coverage. This added feature comes in handy if there’s an injury or damage caused by an intoxicated guest.

A typical homeowner’s policy includes liability coverage of about $1 million on average. This seems like a lot, but imagine a worst-case scenario: one of your guests slips, falls and is suddenly unable to work, then sues you for lost income. Added liability coverage can help with punishing legal expenses.

Helpful Backyard Wedding Tips

• If you do plan to serve alcohol, keep in mind that letting your guests drive home while over the limit could get you in legal hot water. Taxi vouchers and extra beds are a great incentive. If your venue is remote—look into buses.
• Open bar? You’re going to need a Special Occasion Permit from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.
• Remember: catering staff responsible for serving alcohol must be Smart Serve certified.

More Questions? Talk to a Broker

Our network of qualified brokers want your big day to go off without a hitch. Book a meeting today about how far your homeowners policy reaches and find out how extra coverage will give you extra peace of mind. Considering the stresses of wedding planning, peace of mind might be the most valuable gift on the table.