Why The Film Industry Needs Independent Insurance Agents

John Hart Insurance is an independent agent, this means we don’t work for any one insurance company. We have access to many markets, giving us the ability to shop your film, production or entertainment Company to many markets, for the best option for you. With captive insurance agents, like the big national companies, you only get the guidance of one company that sells one brand of insurance. With an independent insurance agent, you might get up to eight choices. There are a number of benefits to working with us:

• We will work with you to make sure your claim is processed to your satisfaction
• We provide a number of coverage options
• Are not obligated to any one company
• John Hart and his staff know and understand the entertainment industry
• We search the market for the  best combination of price and coverage
• We are committed to exceeding your expectations
• You are who we answer to, not a board of directors in NY
• We are licensed professionals with strong customer and community ties
• Our staff is qualified and trained to explain coverage in understandable language
• We can review coverage and make necessary changes based on your needs

When you work with us, we will give you unbiased advice.  As an independent insurance agent we are very knowledgeable about all the companies that exist in the marketplace. We know which companies have the best track record when it comes to pleasing their policy holders. We can narrow your options down and help you choose between the best insurance companies in the market. Not all insurance agents are the same! Choosing the right one can make a big difference – in price, service, and value.

We have over 60 years combined experience in the field of entertainment insurance.  We focus exclusively on understanding the unique needs of motion picture, television, video, music and theatrical companies. Call us today for more information.

Leased or Rented Equipment For The Entertainment Industry

Like many organizations, your production company may rent or lease equipment from time to time.  There are many reasons why production companies rent equipment. Perhaps you are planning a short term film and need to rent lights or other equipment. Or your management company is sponsoring a concert, and you need to rent a sound system. 

It is important to have an understanding of who is responsible for the rented equipment, and that your understanding is consistent with the written rental agreement. Not all rental agreements are the same. Some rental agreements will include property damage insurance as part of the rental fee. Other rental agreements may require the nonprofit to be responsible for all damage. And finally, some rental agreements may require you to pay a deductible if there is damage. This can be very confusing especially if you are leasing or renting a high value item.

There are many important things to remember when considering a rental agreement:

1. Leasing companies come in many varieties including banks, brokers, equipment specialists, independents, and companies of all sizes.  Each has different levels of flexibility and requirements.

2. Understand what the rental/lease agreement says regarding repairs, maintenance, and upgrades. This applies more to long term leases rather than short term leases.

3. It may be in your best interest to insure the equipment separately. This may be more cost effective depending on how the agreement is written.

Leased or Rented Equipment Insurance

• Coverage is available for a wide variety of property, during production or while in your care, custody and control.

• Property located on or off your premises.

• Property in transit.

• Coverage generally can be provided for risk of direct physical loss.

The bottom line is, when you are deciding to lease equipment, be certain you are aware of all costs involved with the transaction. Then, balance the costs against the benefits to make the appropriate choice for you and your organization.