Let's talk - Professional Indemnity Insurance

If you’ve ever had a client ask for proof of Professional Indemnity Insurance and thought, “Do I really need that?” you’re not alone.

Over the past year, we’ve seen a noticeable rise in requests for Professional Indemnity (PI) cover, particularly from production companies, freelancers, and agencies working in broadcast, digital content, and creative services. It’s quickly moving up the list of ‘must-have’ policies and for good reason.

So, what exactly is Professional Indemnity Insurance, and how can it apply to you? Let’s try to break it down into an easily digestible read.

What is Professional Indemnity Insurance?

In simple terms, PI Insurance protects you if a client claims that your advice or service caused them financial loss.

Whether you’re filming a production, editing a documentary, scripting a campaign, designing motion graphics, or consulting on production logistics; if a paying client believes you’ve made a mistake that’s cost them money, they could take legal action against you.

PI insurance steps in to help cover legal costs, settlements, and damages. In the creative world, where deadlines are tight, scopes shift quickly, and expectations run high, even small misunderstandings can spiral into expensive disputes.

Do you actually need it?

Ask yourself this:

• Am I getting paid to provide a service or offer expertise?

If the answer is yes, then it’s highly likely you have an exposure. Even if you’ve done nothing wrong, the cost of defending a claim can be significant, especially if the client is a broadcaster or brand with legal teams on standby.

Timing Matters: How Claims-Made Cover Works

One thing many people don’t realise: Professional Indemnity policies operate on a “claims made” basis. This means the policy you have when the claim is made is the one that responds, not the one that was active when the original work was done.

So even if the issue relates to a project from two years ago, it’s your current policy that needs to cover it. That’s why it’s important to keep PI cover continuous, especially if you regularly work with clients or projects that carry higher risk.

What about contracts?

Many clients, especially in broadcast or agency settings, will require PI cover as part of your contract. Some will even specify the limit of indemnity they expect you to hold. Others may ask for proof of cover before they sign off on a freelancer, supplier, or production partner.

The takeaway? Always check the small print. If you’re tendering for work or joining a roster, make sure your PI cover meets the brief.

Location, Location… Legislation?

Professional Indemnity policies have two key limitations:

• Geographical Limits – Where the work is done or the advice is given
• Jurisdictional Limits – Where a claim can legally be made against you

Why does this matter? Because claims brought in the USA or Canada are notoriously expensive. If you’re working with clients based in North America (even remotely), your insurer will likely view that as higher risk and that’ll be reflected in your premium or terms.

Check where your clients are, where your content is going, and what law your contracts are subject to.

How much cover do you really need?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are a few things to think about:

• What would a worst-case scenario look like?
• What size projects are you typically involved in?
• Could you be held liable for more than just your piece of the puzzle?
• How likely are you to face a claim from a client or third party?

If you’re consistently exposed to risk, look for a policy with cover on an “any one claim” basis (rather than aggregate), this means the limit resets for each claim, rather than being shared across the year.

Ultimately, it’s about balancing potential risk with budget. Think severity + frequency = suitable cover.

Still unsure?

That’s totally normal, PI can be considered a grey area, especially in media where roles blur and projects move fast. The best thing you can do is have a conversation with your insurance broker.

This article is designed as a general guide, not tailored advice, but it should give you a clearer picture of how Professional Indemnity fits into your world.

Need help reviewing your cover or understanding what’s right for your business? We’re always happy to chat through options, no jargon, no pressure.