As a roaming photographer in Malta—someone who works in public spaces, private venues, or client sites—having public liability insurance is strongly recommended and often required by event organisers or venues.
Here’s what you need to know:
What Is Public Liability Insurance?
Public liability insurance protects you if a third party (client, guest, bystander, property owner) suffers:
- Injury, or
- Property damage
as a result of your photographic work or presence at a location.
This is separate from insurance for your gear (which is typically equipment or contents insurance).
Is Public Liability Insurance Mandatory in Malta?
Not legally required for all self-employed people
But…
Often contractually required if you:
- Work at public or private venues (e.g. hotels, churches, wedding venues)
- Are hired by event organisers (corporate, tourism, festivals)
- Collaborate with other vendors (e.g. planners, caterers)
- Do shoots in government-owned spaces or heritage sites
Venues and clients may ask for a certificate of insurance (COI) to prove you’re covered.
Why Roaming Photographers in Malta Need It
- You may accidentally:
- Trip a guest with a light stand
- Knock over valuable decor
- Scratch a classic car during a styled shoot
- Cause someone to fall over a tripod in a tight space
- You’re often moving between locations, so risk exposure is higher than studio-only photographers
What does a public liability insurance policy generally cover?
| Covered | Examples |
|---|---|
| Third-party injury | Guest trips on your cable and fractures an ankle |
| Third-party property damage | You damage a venue’s antique furniture with a light stand |
| Legal defence costs | If someone sues you for negligence |
| Out-of-court settlements | Where a legal agreement is reached |
Not Covered:
- Your own injuries or equipment (that requires separate accident or contents insurance)
- Intentional damage or breach of contract
How to Acquire Insurance?
- Contact a provider or broker
Provide:
- Business type (“freelance photographer”)
- Locations of work (e.g. events, outdoors, international)
- Estimate of annual turnover
Request a certificate of insurance (COI) for events/venues
Renew yearly and review coverage as you grow. Level of coverage is personal to the business, someone who specialises in event photography may require a higher level of coverage than someone who specialises in street photography. The higher the coverage, the higher the premium.