Planning a Stag and Doe party is exciting, but it also comes with a long checklist. Guest lists, food, music, decorations, prizes, and the venue usually take centre stage. What often gets overlooked is insurance, specifically Party Alcohol Liability insurance, also known as PAL insurance.
Even though it may not feel like a priority, PAL insurance plays a critical role in protecting everyone involved when alcohol is served at an event.
Do you need insurance for a Stag and Doe party?
In Ontario, event liability insurance is not legally required for private events. However, most venues will require proof of PAL insurance before allowing you to host a large gathering. This requirement is not meant to complicate your plans. It is there to protect the venue, its owners, and the event hosts from potential legal and financial exposure.
If an incident occurs during the event, liability can extend beyond the person involved. Hosts, organizers, and venues can all be named in a claim. PAL insurance helps manage that risk.
What PAL Insurance Actually Covers
PAL insurance combines host liability and alcohol related liability into one policy. It is designed specifically for events where alcohol is served, whether it is sold, provided, or included with admission.
PAL insurance can help cover legal costs and damages if a guest causes injury or property damage after consuming alcohol at your event. This includes situations where a guest leaves the event and is involved in an accident.
It also protects the host from non-alcohol related incidents. Slips and falls, injuries on the premises, or accidental property damage can all lead to claims. PAL insurance helps respond to these situations as well.
Why Venues Insist on PAL Insurance
Venues require PAL insurance because it transfers risk away from the property owner. If a claim arises, the insurance policy responds first, rather than exposing the venue to direct legal action.
In many cases, venues ask to be listed as an additional insured on the policy. This ensures all parties involved in hosting the event are protected.
Do You Need a Liquor Licence to Get PAL Insurance?
You do not need a liquor licence to purchase PAL insurance. However, if you plan to serve alcohol at a Stag and Doe party, a liquor licence is required by law. Most people apply for both at the same time to ensure they meet venue and legal requirements.
Having your liquor licence details available when requesting a PAL insurance quote can help streamline the process.
What You Need Before Applying For PAL Insurance
Before requesting coverage, it helps to have a few details ready. This allows the policy to be issued accurately and without delays.
- You will need the contact information of the event host. This is the person responsible for organizing the event, not necessarily the bride or groom.
- You should confirm the venue details and understand how much liability coverage they require. Most venues request between one million and five million dollars in coverage.
- The estimated number of attendees is also required. If you are unsure, the number listed on your liquor licence is typically used.
- If the venue requires additional insured status, you will need the full legal name of the venue and its location.
How Much Does PAL Insurance Cost?
PAL insurance is generally affordable, especially when compared to the potential financial risk of hosting an uninsured event. The cost depends on the number of guests and the amount of liability coverage selected.
Coverage is typically purchased in one million dollar increments, up to five million dollars. Pricing varies, but for many Stag and Doe events, PAL insurance costs a few hundred dollars for the entire event.
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Hosting a Stag and Doe party should be memorable for the right reasons. PAL insurance helps ensure that if something unexpected happens, you are protected. It provides peace of mind for hosts, reassurance for venues, and protection for everyone involved.
If you are planning an upcoming event and need guidance on PAL insurance, let our team help you understand your options and secure coverage that fits your event. Contact us today, with any questions or guidance needed – and check this one off your list, early.
