Camera Insurance

What gear do camera policies cover?

Camera policies can cover most photography-specific gear that photographers use. Coverage may extend to:

• Cameras (DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, etc.)
• Lenses (telephoto lenses, wide angle lenses, macro lenses, filters, etc.)
• Lighting equipment (flash units, umbrellas, LEDs, etc.)
• Portable backdrops, props and styling accessories
• Memory cards, batteries, card readers and chargers
• Underwater camera housing
• Video cameras and action cameras

How much do camera policies cover photography equipment for?

The maximum amount of coverage that any insurance policy affords is generally stipulated by its limit(s). For camera policies, there’s usually a scheduled equipment limit and an unscheduled equipment limit.

The scheduled equipment limit typically applies to more expensive gear, such as individual equipment valued at $2,000 or more. This equipment normally must be documented, including each item’s make, model, serial number and replacement cost.

Items that are on the scheduled list typically get covered for the replacement cost that’s noted, or a value approximately similar. Each of these can have its own individual limit.

The unscheduled equipment limit typically applies to less expensive gear, such as more affordable cameras and accessories. This equipment is normally covered on an individual basis for up to the schedule requirements (e.g. perhaps $2,000), or the equipment’s value/replacement cost. There’s also a total unscheduled limit that applies to all gear not specifically listed on the policy’s schedule.

What’s required to be scheduled and what the limits are varies from policy to policy. An insurance agent who specializes in these policies can help photographers select limits that provide full protection for their gear, and make sure any gear that needs to be listed is noted on the policy’s schedule.

Does homeowners insurance cover cameras?

Homeowners insurance policies generally provide coverage for personal property, which often includes cameras to a certain extent. Before relying on a homeowners policy for camera coverage, though, there are a few details to check:

• Homeowners policies often don’t cover business equipment without an additional coverage and charge. This can include cameras that professional photographers use.
• Homeowners policies often have limited coverage for expensive items, including cameras. There may not be sufficient coverage available through a homeowners policy for a single expensive camera, not to mention several and their accessories.
• Homeowners policies sometimes greatly limit personal property coverage when items are taken off of the insured house’s property. Photographers, obviously, need solid coverage anywhere they go.

In many cases, homeowners insurance doesn’t provide sufficient coverage for multiple valuable cameras. A camera policy frequently offers more extensive coverage while keeping premiums affordable.

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