Musical instrument insurance UK: A complete guide for musicians

Whether you’re a gigging guitarist, a session violinist, or a keyboard hobbyist who just loves to play, your musical instrument is more than just gear—it’s an extension of yourself. But what happens if it gets stolen, damaged, or lost on the way to a gig? Many musicians assume home insurance covers it all, but often that’s not enough.

In this guide, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about musical instrument insurance in the UK, from why it’s worth having, to what it covers, how much it costs, and how to make a claim.

Contents

• Why get specific insurance for my instrument?
• What is generally included in a music instrument policy?
• Am I covered when I travel?
• How much does UK instrument insurance cost?
• Who sells musical instrument insurance in the UK?
• How much is my instrument worth?
• How to make an insurance claim

Why get specific insurance for my instrument?

While your home insurance might offer some protection, musical instruments often need more tailored coverage. Here’s why:

• Specialised protection: Standard home insurance may exclude damage while gigging, travelling, or in transit. Instrument insurance is designed with musicians in mind.
• Worldwide cover: If you’re a touring musician, your policy can cover theft, loss, or damage abroad, even while checked-in on flights.
• Accidental damage: Covers repairs or replacement costs if your instrument is dropped, knocked, or otherwise damaged, e.g. while on location shooting a music video.
• Higher value instruments: Many instruments exceed the single-item limit on home insurance. Specialist policies allow you to insure higher-value instruments properly.
• Loss of use or hire fees: Some policies even reimburse you for hiring a replacement instrument so you can keep playing.
• Peace of mind on stage and on tour: Dedicated policies often include cover for instruments while performing or in transit.

What is generally included in a music instrument policy?

A typical musical instrument insurance policy covers:

• Theft: Whether from home, venue, or even a locked vehicle.
• Accidental damage: Including while playing, travelling, or rehearsing.
• Loss: If your instrument goes missing in transit or at a venue.
• In-transit damage: Covers instruments while travelling by car, train, or air.
• Accessories: Some policies include cases, stands, studio headphones, and electronic gear.
• Public liability (optional): Covers legal costs if someone sues you for injury or damage during your performance.
• Personal accident cover (optional): Can help cover lost income if you’re injured and can’t play.

Am I covered when I travel?

Most specialist policies offer worldwide cover, perfect for touring musicians or students studying abroad. Just make sure you are aware of all exemptions:

• Airline baggage: Some insurers exclude damage by airlines unless the instrument was packed in a hard case or checked-in according to the airline’s requirements.
• Unattended vehicles: Many policies require instruments left in cars to be locked in the boot or concealed from view, otherwise, you might not be covered.
• Security requirements: Some insurers expect your London recording studio or home studio to have locks or alarms meeting their security standards. Check these carefully to avoid claim rejections.

How much does instrument insurance cost in the UK?

The cost of musical instrument insurance depends on:

• Instrument value: A £500 guitar costs less to insure than a £10,000 violin.
• Where you live: Urban areas may have higher premiums due to increased risk of theft.
• Cover type: Worldwide cover, in-transit cover, and extras like public liability increase the premium.
• Usage: Professionals generally pay more than hobbyists.

Typical Costs:

• Low-value instruments (under £1,000): from around £25-£50 per year.
• Higher-value instruments (£5,000+): £80-£150+ per year.
• Many insurers offer monthly payment plans and discounts for multiple instruments or musicians’ union members.

Who sells musical instrument insurance in the UK?

In the UK, several reputable providers specialise in musical instrument insurance, offering tailored policies to suit different musicians’ needs. Here’s a more detailed look at some of the main providers:

Allianz Musical Insurance

One of the largest and most established providers, Allianz offers comprehensive cover for a wide range of instruments, from beginner to professional levels. They’re known for flexible worldwide cover, in-transit protection, and optional public liability. They also offer features like agreed value policies, meaning you and Allianz agree on the instrument’s worth at the time of policy start, ensuring a smoother claims process.

Newmoon Insurance

Renowned for their flexible cover options, Newmoon caters to both individual musicians and groups, including orchestras and bands. They often allow you to tailor policies to include things like hire fees, accessories, and worldwide travel. Their reputation is built on working closely with musicians to adapt policies to unique requirements.

Hencilla Canworth

Particularly popular among brass bands, choirs, and musical ensembles, Hencilla Canworth offers specialist group policies as well as individual cover. They are known for collaborating with music associations, making them a top choice for community-based musicians. Their cover is often recommended by music societies thanks to their attention to detail on group instruments and loaned equipment.

Paying members of the Musician's Union can register for £3,000 musical instrument insurance and equipment cover through Hencilla Canworth as part of the membership benefits.

Lark Music

Another well-established provider with decades of experience, Lark Music offers high-quality cover for both professional and amateur musicians. They offer tailored cover for most types of instruments and they often provide a personalised service with one-to-one claims handling.

Tip: Compare quotes, read reviews, and check if your chosen provider offers benefits like agreed value cover or discounts for multiple instruments.

How much is my instrument worth?

Determining the value of your instrument is an essential step in getting the right insurance cover. The simplest way to start is by checking your original receipts. If you bought the instrument from a retailer, the purchase invoice can provide a clear, verifiable record of what you paid.

For vintage, rare, or custom-made instruments, it’s a good idea to get a professional valuation. Not only can the value appreciate over time, but some insurers require an up-to-date valuation for high-value items to ensure accurate and fair cover. Reputable music shops, auction houses, or specialist valuers can provide this service.

It’s also important to understand how insurers assess value. Some policies are based on “market value,” meaning they’ll pay out the estimated worth of the instrument at the time of loss or damage. This means the value can change depending on age, condition, and demand. Other insurers offer “agreed value” policies, where the payout amount is fixed and agreed upon when the policy begins. This can offer greater peace of mind, especially for one-of-a-kind or high-end instruments where market prices are unpredictable.

How to make an insurance claim

If your instrument is stolen, lost, or damaged, it’s important to act quickly. The first step is to report the incident to your insurer as soon as possible. Most policies have time limits for making a claim, so prompt notification can help prevent complications or rejection.

Next, gather all the evidence you can. This typically includes a police report if the incident involved theft, along with photographs showing any damage. You’ll also need to provide receipts, proof of purchase, or a recent valuation to confirm the instrument’s value.

If your instrument is damaged, don’t throw it away—even if it’s unusable. Insurers may ask to inspect the item or request further proof before approving repairs or replacement.

Most insurers provide claim forms online or offer a phone-based claims process. Make sure to complete these thoroughly and submit any supporting documents they request. The faster and more accurately you provide this information, the smoother your claim will be.

Finally, understand what your policy does and doesn’t cover. Claims are often denied for issues like normal wear and tear, cosmetic scratches, or damage caused by neglect. Many policies also exclude items left unattended or in unlocked premises. Always review your policy exclusions so you’re not caught out when it matters most.

Additional tips:

• Review your policy regularly — If you buy a new instrument, upgrade your existing one, or change how often you travel or perform, update your policy.
• Keep records: Always store receipts, valuations, and photos of your instrument.
• Bundle and save: Some insurers offer discounts for multiple instruments or musicians’ association members.

Final thoughts on musical instrument insurance

Your instrument is at the heart of your craft, and protecting it is essential for peace of mind and your musical journey. By choosing the right musical instrument insurance, you’ll be able to focus on what really matters (making music) while knowing you’re covered if the unexpected happens. Whether you’re a pro music producer or a dedicated hobbyist, the right cover means you never have to miss a day of practice.

If you want to try before you buy, we've got you covered with the top places to hire musical instruments & equipment in London.