Why Event Party Rental Insurance Matters — And What Most People Overlook*

When planning an event, safety and reliability should never be afterthoughts. One of the most commonly overlooked—and most critical—aspects of event planning is insurance coverage. Whether you’re renting a mechanical bull, booking a face painter, or organizing a city-wide festival, making sure your vendors and rental companies are properly insured is essential.

Here’s what you need to know before booking that vendor who offers a “great deal” without the right protections in place.

*Not All Insurance Is the Same

Many smaller vendors don’t realize (or choose to ignore) that not all insurance policies are equal. Just because a rental company says they’re insured doesn’t mean they’re adequately insured for your event.

For example: An inflatable company may carry general liability coverage for bounce houses—but that policy often does not cover high-risk attractions like mechanical bull rides, bumper cars, or hard rides unless they have a specific insurance rider for those items. The same goes for seemingly simple items like tables and chairs, tents, or even event entertainers such as balloon twisters and magicians. Many policies require separate riders for these services. Without them, you or your venue could be left exposed.

These additional riders can add tens of thousands—even six figures—to a policy, which is why low prices often mean corners have been cut on coverage.

Entertainers May Not Be Fully Covered

Independent entertainers may offer a certificate of insurance, but be cautious. That certificate may only cover their individual performance, not any friends or subcontractors they bring in. If a balloon twister books a friend to cover your event or provides small rentals like a popcorn machine or tables without proper coverage, you could be left liable in the event of an accident or damage.

Bigger Companies = Bigger Protections

Usually Larger, reputable companies like Awesome Family Entertainment LLC are structured to protect you and your guests—not just entertain them. Here’s a breakdown of key insurance coverages we carry:

• ✅ General Liability Insurance

• ✅ Workers’ Compensation (BWC)

• ✅ Commercial Auto Insurance

• ✅ Hired and Non-Owned Auto Coverage

• ✅ Venue Damage Insurance

• ✅ Ability to List Clients and Venues as Additional Insured
  

We’re proud to say Awesome Entertainment has had zero claims on our general liability, hired and non-Owned auto Coverage, and venue insurance. That’s because we believe in providing safe, well-managed, and fully protected events.

A safe event is an awesome event—and an awesome event is a safe event!

The Types of Coverage That Matter

If you're organizing a large event or corporate function, here are the coverages your vendors should be able to provide:

• General Liability – Covers third-party injuries and property damage.

• Workers’ Compensation (BWC) – Required for employees working on-site.

• Commercial Auto Insurance – For event-related transportation and deliveries.

• Hired and Non-Owned Auto Coverage – Important when subcontractors use personal vehicles.

• Venue Damage Insurance – Often required by malls, schools, and city venues.

Many smaller vendors rely on personal auto policies or bare-minimum coverage, which often exclude business use—leaving you exposed to unexpected liability.

Tips to Further Protect Your Event

Even when working with fully insured professionals like Awesome Entertainment, we encourage clients to consider these additional safeguards:

• 🛡 Special Event Insurance – Covers cancellations, venue damage, or injury liability specific to your event.

• 🌧 Weather Waivers (not insurance) – Helps reduce or eliminate cancellation fees if weather forces you to reschedule.

• 📝 Accidental Damage Waiver (not insurance) – Adds a layer of protection by reducing your contractual liability for minor damages.
  

Most smaller vendors may not be able to list your venue or organization as an “Additional Insured”, which shifts legal liability onto you. That’s a small but critical detail that can make a big difference.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Gamble with Liability

We support small businesses and entertainers—but when it comes to liability and risk management, they often don’t have the coverage or resources to protect you. If you’re hosting a school event, city festival, mall activation, or corporate celebration, work with a partner who understands the complexities of coverage, compliance, and safety.

At Awesome Entertainment, we’ve earned the trust of municipalities, corporations, schools, and event planners across Ohio because we put safety and professionalism first.

📞 Ready to plan a safe, spectacular, and awesome event? Contact us today! -614.224.9568

*Disclaimer: This article reflects the opinions of Awesome Family Entertainment LLC and is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Please speak with a licensed insurance professional for specific guidance regarding your needs.