FILM LOCATION ESSENTIALS: DAMAGES DEPOSITS AND INSURANCE EXPLAINED
Film location essentials: Insurance and damages deposits explained
6th of October, 2025.
Location Owner Essentials: Damages Deposits & Insurance Explained
Key Takeaways
Every shoot with Silverstein Locations requires Public Liability Insurance – protecting both the location owner and production company.
Optional Damages Deposits offer added peace of mind, covering minor damages, overtime or additional clean-up costs quickly and easily.
When hosting a film or photoshoot at your property, understanding insurance and damages deposits is essential. At SL, we make sure every production — from small editorials to large-scale commercials — is properly insured and handled with care. These measures not only safeguard your property but also ensure a smooth, professional experience for everyone involved.
Luxury Treehouse Two, a serene film location in West Sussex.
Understanding Public Liability Insurance
At SL, every production—no matter how big or small—must provide Public Liability Insurance before the shoot takes place. Public Liability Insurance protects both the property owner and production company from costs associated with damage to property or injury to people during filming. It’s a non-negotiable safeguard for everyone involved in location shoots. Typically, we require a minimum cover of £5,000,000, though depending on the nature and scale of the production, this can easily increase to £10,000,000. Insurance documentation is collected after the booking is confirmed and before the shoot day, ensuring everything is in place for a smooth and secure production.
Swanley, a family home film location in Kent.
The Extra Layer: Damages Deposits
While Public Liability Insurance provides comprehensive cover, we also offer location owners the option of a Damages Deposit.
This additional safeguard helps cover minor, immediate costs such as:
Small or cosmetic damages
Overtime incurred on shoot days
Additional cleaning or waste removal if a space isn’t left as found
A damages deposit means we can resolve smaller issues swiftly without going through a lengthy insurance claim process.
This deposit isn’t mandatory; it’s entirely at the owner’s discretion, but can add an extra layer of protection. When discussing potential bookings, we’ll liaise with you to agree a suitable amount based on the nature and duration of the shoot.
Why It’s a Good Idea
Although most shoots run seamlessly, accidents can happen. A damages deposit provides an immediate, stress-free solution, ensuring you’re compensated quickly while maintaining good relationships with clients and crews.
At the end of the final shoot day, it’s the owner’s responsibility to confirm the space is undamaged, left in its original condition and that no overtime has occurred. Once both parties have signed off, the deposit is returned to the production company within 48 hours.
The Apartment, a spacious, retro film location in Richmond.
Partner with Silverstein Locations
Whether you’re a location owner wanting to protect your property and earn from creative shoots, or a location manager, scout or production company seeking premium locations — Silverstein Locations is here to make the process safe, transparent and professional.
Follow us on TikTok and Instagram for live scouting opportunities or reach out to enquire about one of our incredible locations.
List your home with us today and be part of the UK’s leading network of film locations.
