Film errors and omissions insurance, often called film E&O insurance, protects filmmakers, producers, and production companies from legal claims alleging mistakes in their work. It covers issues like copyright infringement, defamation, invasion of privacy, and misrepresentation in films, documentaries, or TV shows. This coverage is often required by distributors and streaming platforms before a project can be released.

We suggest just starting by getting the application completed.  You can find it on this webpage or by clicking here – https://kellyinsurancegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Film-Producers-and-Television-E-and-O-Insurance-Application.pdf

Coverage limits for film E&O insurance vary depending on the production budget and distribution requirements. Independent films may secure policies with limits starting at $1 million, while larger productions often require $2 million to $5 million in coverage. Distributors like Netflix or Amazon frequently specify the minimum limits they’ll accept.

In insurance, E&O stands for Errors and Omissions. It is a form of professional liability coverage that protects against claims of mistakes, negligence, or unintentional harm caused by your professional work. In film and media, this applies to creative decisions, script content, or intellectual property use.

What is an example of a film E&O claim?

A common example of a film E&O claim is when a production uses copyrighted music, artwork, or footage without proper licensing and the rights holder sues. Another example is if a documentary includes personal information about someone that leads to an invasion of privacy lawsuit.

Film E&O insurance does not cover bodily injury, property damage, or intentional wrongdoing. It also excludes breach of contract disputes, fraud, and employment-related claims. Those risks typically require separate policies like general liability, workers’ compensation, or employment practices liability insurance.

Most film E&O policies are written on a one-year term. However, many distributors require evidence that coverage extends throughout the entire distribution period, often meaning producers renew annually or secure multi-year coverage to satisfy contracts.

The cost of E&O insurance depends on the budget, distribution platform, and risk profile of the film. Independent films may see premiums starting around $2,500 to $5,000 per year, while larger productions can pay $10,000 or more. Costs increase with higher coverage limits and wider distribution.

E&O insurance is best at covering intellectual property disputes, defamation, privacy violations, and unlicensed content usage. For filmmakers, this means protection from lawsuits tied to the story, characters, music, or footage included in a production.

Yes. Film E&O insurance is not optional if you plan to distribute or stream your film. Most distributors, broadcasters, and streaming services require proof of E&O coverage before release. It protects both the filmmaker and the distributor from costly lawsuits.

You can reduce E&O risks by securing proper licenses and releases for all music, footage, and intellectual property. Always get written agreements with cast, crew, and interview subjects. Having a legal clearance review before final cut also helps prevent claims.

Film E&O insurance can feel costly because lawsuits in media and entertainment often involve copyright, defamation, or high-profile legal battles. Defense costs alone can exceed hundreds of thousands of dollars. The premium reflects this risk and the insurer’s responsibility to defend you.

The cheapest E&O insurance is usually offered by specialty insurance brokers and carriers that focus on entertainment risks. However, “cheapest” isn’t always best — distributors often require policies from reputable carriers with strong financial backing.

Common triggers include allegations of copyright infringement, plagiarism, libel, slander, or invasion of privacy. Even if claims are groundless, the legal defense costs trigger coverage under your E&O policy.

An E&O deductible is the out-of-pocket amount you must pay before your policy responds. Deductibles can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the production and insurer. Higher deductibles typically lower the premium.

Key documents include talent releases, music licenses, clip licenses, location agreements, and copyright permissions. Having thorough legal paperwork is the best way to reduce exposure to claims.

Film E&O works by providing defense costs and financial protection if someone sues over alleged mistakes in your production. Once you report a claim, the insurer appoints legal counsel, pays for defense, and covers settlements or judgments up to the policy limit.

The main purpose of E&O insurance is to protect filmmakers and distributors from financial loss due to lawsuits tied to creative content. It ensures productions can be distributed without legal delays or financial ruin from litigation.

No. E&O does not cover bodily injury or property damage. Those claims fall under general liability insurance or specialized film production liability policies.

Industries like film, media, real estate, financial services, and professional consulting see the highest volume of E&O claims. In entertainment specifically, copyright and defamation claims are the most common.

Most film E&O policies provide coverage limits of $1 million to $3 million per claim, with aggregate limits up to $5 million or more for larger productions. Distributor requirements usually dictate the minimum limit.

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To file an E&O claim, notify your insurance carrier or broker as soon as you receive notice of a potential lawsuit. Provide all relevant contracts, legal papers, and background details. The insurer will assign defense counsel and manage the claim.

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How much does E&O insurance cost for film productions?

Film E&O insurance can range from $2,500 for a small indie project to over $15,000 for larger productions. Factors include film budget, distribution agreements, and coverage limits.

Exclusions typically include bodily injury, property damage, criminal acts, breach of contract disputes, and fraudulent behavior. It’s designed specifically for intellectual property and content-related risks.

Yes. Producers can often buy retroactive E&O coverage if they are releasing or re-releasing older projects. However, past acts coverage must be requested and approved by the insurer.

Both are professional liability coverage, but malpractice insurance typically applies to medical and legal professionals, while E&O insurance applies to industries like film, media, real estate, and consulting.

A film includes a brand logo, copyrighted song, or character likeness without permission, and the rights holder sues for damages. The E&O policy covers defense and settlement costs.

Most E&O policies are claims-made and written for 12 months. Coverage must be active both when the alleged error occurred and when the claim is filed, which is why continuous coverage is so important.

Yes. E&O insurance premiums are generally considered a tax-deductible business expense for production companies and self-employed filmmakers.

An E&O policy is valid for the policy term stated in the contract, typically one year. To maintain protection, producers must renew coverage annually or purchase extended reporting period coverage.

Yes, many general contractors carry E&O coverage to protect against claims of negligence, faulty design, or professional mistakes. It’s separate from general liability, which only covers physical damage or injury.

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Errors and omissions insurance is also known as professional liability insurance or malpractice insurance, depending on the industry. In film and media, it’s often referred to as media liability insurance.

Filmmakers, producers, production companies, authors, publishers, real estate agents, consultants, and financial professionals are the most common buyers of E&O coverage. In film, distributors typically require it.

The two main types of malpractice insurance are claims-made policies (coverage applies only while the policy is active) and occurrence policies (coverage applies to incidents that happen during the policy period, even if reported later).