Question: Do I need insurance to rent equipment?

Answer: In most cases, yes-especially for larger gear packages or productions with extended rental periods. Insurance helps protect both you and us from unexpected loss or damage. Don't have coverage yet? No worries. We're happy to walk you through what's needed and recommend you to providers who can get you set up quickly. We also offer some flexible options for lower-value rentals or one-off projects-so reach out and let's talk about what makes sense for your project.

Question: What kind of insurance do I need?

Answer: Most rentals fall into one or both of the following categories-equipment or vehicles-and each has its own set of recommended coverage levels. These are based on the guidelines from our insurance provider to ensure everyone is protected in the event of a loss:

For Equipment Rentals (Cameras, Lighting, Grip)

  • Equipment coverage of $1,000,000.
  • Third Party Property Damage Liability of $1,000,000
  • Commercial General Liability of $2,000,000
  • Additional Insured on the Commercial General Liability coverage
  • Loss Payee for the rented Equipment
  • Evidence showing Workers Compensation and Employers Liability if applicable

For Vehicle Rentals

  • Physical Damage for Rented Vehicles: $125,000 per Truck, $750,000 per Crane
  • Non-owned and Hired Automobile Liability of $1,000,000
  • Loss Payee for the rented Vehicles

These values reflect total per-loss coverage and help ensure your policy meets not only your requirements, but also the needs of other vendors you may be working with. We realize every production is different. If you're a smaller crew or student producer and your coverage levels don't quite align with these guidelines, let us know. We're happy to discuss options and help you navigate your next steps.

Question: How do I show you that I have the right insurance?

Answer: Your insurance provider should be familiar with what's needed. A standard Certificate of Insurance (COI), typically issued using the ACORD form, will do the trick.

When issuing the certificate, be sure to list the following as the Additional Insured::
Lowing Light & Grip, Inc.
1500 Whiting Street SW
Wyoming, MI 49509 If your provider has any questions or needs clarification, we're happy to help.

Question: Can you show me?

Answer: Click here for the detailed requirements as described by our insurance provider.
Click here for a sample ACORD certificate form.

Question: Does my insurance coverage expire?

Answer: Yes it does! We try to keep your insurance information current in our system. Your Rental Forms should indicate the month and year that we think your insurance will expire. If it is blank, out of date, or marked as REQUIRED or PENDING, then we need a new certificate from you.

Question: I'm only renting a small amount of gear-do I really need that much insurance? Can't I just cover the replacement value?

Answer: We totally understand where you're coming from. For small rentals, the coverage amounts may seem high at first glance-here's why those limits exist:

1. Replacement Value isn't the full price.

While it might feel like you're only borrowing a small amount of gear, the actual replacement cost, even for a few pieces, can add up quickly. We work hard to maintain high-quality equipment and make it available locally, so we want to ensure it's protected appropriately.

2. Custom quotes take time - and raise costs.

Providing individualized replacement value estimates for each rental takes considerable time to do accurately. That overhead would ultimately increase rental costs across the board, which we try to avoid.

3. Insurance protects everyone involved.

Insurance isn't just about our gear, it's also about protecting you, your team, and any third parties involved in a production. Should something go wrong, your insurance serves as a safeguard to help cover unforeseen costs or liability. It's a professional standard in this industry, and one we're happy to help you navigate if you're unsure where to start.

If your production has unique circumstances, reach out. We'll always do our best to work with you.

Question: I'm having trouble meeting the insurance requirements - are there any other options?

Answer: There may be!

It depends on a few factors, so let's talk it through - reach out and we'll see what makes sense for your project.

Question: I'm ready to get insurance, where should I start?

Answer: A great first step is to check with your current insurance provider or agent. You can also ask colleagues or crew for recommendations. We keep a short list of agencies we've worked with on our Friends & Family Links page. Feel free to check it out or reach out if you need guidance.