Here’s why event liability insurance is crucial for businesses this festive season

As 2025 enters its final stretch, the rising vibration of the South African festive season becomes increasingly more palpable. This means that end-of-year events are around the corner. 

While event organisers plan meticulously and hope for no hiccups on the day, there’s always a level of risk that can’t be ignored, regardless of the event's size. It’s because of this element of surprise that Auto&General created its Events Liability Insurance product. 

A&G’s Events Liability Insurance covers unexpected mishaps at an event, such as third-party property damage or injuries to people. They also cover once-off celebrations or multiple events held throughout the year. 

To learn more about how this kind of insurance works and why it’s essential, 702 Drive’s John Perlman speaks to Storm Mhlambi, Senior Manager for Specialist Liabilities at Auto&General. Listen to the conversation below: 

“We cover all types of events, but we also cover the businesses that service these events, especially at this time of the year in South Africa, whether they be electricians, people who put up stages, caterers, or DJs,” says Storm Mhlambi, Senior Manager for Specialist Liabilities, Auto&General.

Mhlambi explains that this insurance product was created in response to an increasing number of client requests for event-based coverage, not necessarily for an entire year.

She notes that the requests mainly came from small businesses serving the event industry. "They weren’t able to access this kind of cover without a broker. They also didn’t want to buy cover for the entire year because for some of them, the business was a side hustle or a job that they do during certain periods of the year.” 

The Events Liability Insurance provides tailored coverage to the client, says Mhlambi. Auto & General will cover the individual business for the services they offer and the specific risks that come with them. They offer one-day policies and can go up to six weeks for longer-running events.

From corporate gatherings and weddings to community festivals, you need the right cover for your event.