Liability Insurance

Liability covers injury to a third party (any person other than you and your immediate family) caused by your horse's actions. This includes riding accidents, kicks, bites, escapes causing property damage, or your horse causing a motor vehicle accident. It does NOT cover your own injury if you fall from your own horse (that would be personal injury insurance). Liability specifically covers claims made against you by other people.

This depends on the boarding agreement. Many boarding facilities require that each horse owner carry their own liability insurance. Your facility may also carry a general liability policy, but it typically won't cover incidents caused specifically by your horse at fault. We recommend individual cover—it's affordable and protects you personally. Review your boarding agreement carefully to see what's required.

If an invited guest is injured whilst riding your horse through the horse's behaviour (spooking, bucking, rearing), this is typically covered. However, if you're an instructor and the student is injured due to your negligent instruction or unsafe practice, this may fall under Professional Indemnity rather than standard Liability. Riding instructors and trainers should carry Professional Indemnity insurance. We can advise on the right cover for your situation.

If your escaped horse causes a road accident or property damage, you could be sued by the other driver/property owner for damages. Your equine liability cover would protect you in this scenario. We'd cover your legal defence costs and any damages awarded (up to your limit). This is a realistic risk in rural areas near roads. This is why secure fencing and good horse management are essential—and why liability cover is so important.

Yes, the cover limit you choose (NZ$1M, 2M, or 5M) is the maximum we'll pay per incident. Within that limit, we cover legal costs, settlements, and court awards. If a court awards NZ$3 million in damages but you only carry NZ$2M cover, you're personally liable for the NZ$1M difference. This is why higher limits are recommended. The cost difference (NZ$50–100/year) is minimal compared to the protection provided.

Yes, we can arrange seasonal or annual liability cover. Annual cover (NZ$130–NZ$280/year) is most cost-effective and simplest. We also offer event-specific cover if you're organising a horse event—a one-day show, polo match, or clinic—which would cover your liability as the organiser. Seasonal cover is available but less common; most people find annual to be better value.

If your facility has paying boarders or clients using it, you should carry higher liability limits (NZ$5M recommended). Facility liability covers injuries to clients, boarders, and visitors occurring on your property due to your horse. This is different from operator liability (which covers injuries from running the facility itself). Most facility operators need both equine liability and operator liability insurance.

No, equine liability insurance covers incidents caused by your horse's actions, not claims of professional negligence. If you're a veterinarian or farrier, you'd need Professional Indemnity insurance. If you're sued for improper care or handling of your horse (e.g., negligent feeding, lack of veterinary care), this might fall outside standard liability. Professional advice is important here.