When to get liability insurance?

[Saren]

In order to register my business I have to get liability insurance (which I was going to get anyways) beforehand.

BUT, I wasn't planning on registering my business until I got SOME experience. The plan was to do a storytime in three different locations and do at least one party or event for free.

But now I'm wondering if I should just register my business (and get the isnurance) before I start offering storytime? I'm asking because at the current moment I'm using money from another job, to fund my mermaiding endeavors. I don't forsee making any kind of profit from mermaiding until I either a) leave Japan or until b) summer arrives and people are interested in having a mermaid come to their events and parties.

[mermaids-and-anchors]

Some places won't hire you if you don't have that insurance. For example, someone wanted to hire you for their child's birthday party but they don't have a pool at their home so they have to rent space at a pool at a gym, that gym will most likely require you to have liability insurance or it's a no deal. Or if a Recreation Park/Community Center wanted to hire you, you'd 99% chance have to have liability insurance.

[Saren]

Some places won't hire you if you don't have that insurance. For example, someone wanted to hire you for their child's birthday party but they don't have a pool at their home so they have to rent space at a pool at a gym, that gym will most likely require you to have liability insurance or it's a no deal. Or if a Recreation Park/Community Center wanted to hire you, you'd 99% chance have to have liability insurance.

I understand that and I do want liability insurance. I'm just wondering if I should have it while I'm doing free and volunteer events, such as storytime or a party or event for no charge.
The library I plan to read at wouldn't require me to have liability insurance since I'd be volunteering to read stories, just like everyone else does. But should I have it anyways?

[Spindrift]

I think it can be a good idea, or if you are very hesitant, have people fill out a waiver. I think laws are different in every country though, so that should be checked.

[AniaR]

I'd get it right away, venues and clients and pools will require it. Shop around, get free quotes.

[Saren]

Unfortunately I can't shop around, I'd have to go through the insurance provider we use for our cars and house, etc.
Due to my visa status I can't go with any other insurance company.
I've decided to just postpone story time until I get the insurance. Who knows? Maybe someone will trip over my tail.


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[AniaR]

You can ask the library if they require it, they might not. but most gigs and most settings will.

[Saren]

I actually feel really stupid for not thinking about asking them.
I guess I get so frustrated with other things I don't see the simple solution. Thanks Raina! I'll be sure to ask them and your right, story time aside I will need insurance to do anything else aside from my normal swimming.


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