UPDATED – 2026 is almost upon us. At NDML, we pledge to continue to protect nightclubs and leisure venues long into the future. All clubs should review their risk mitigation and safety procedures. Read on to see our predictions for the year ahead…
What are the biggest risks late night leisure venues will need to look out for in the New Year?
We expect to see a continuation of the most pertinent claims. Public liability claims and employers’ liability claims will always be high on our list of claims as guests and employees suffer accidents throughout the year. Slips and trips are likely to happen at any time of the year, whether due to spilt mojitos at a summer party or a layer of winter frost on a footpath.
Buildings and Contents claims keep rising for damages caused to venue property. Business Interruption cover often goes hand-in-hand with this, as if businesses need to shut for a significant period of time to restore and repair the building, this cover will be triggered.
The industry is changing and evolving. There’s an industry-wide call for stronger security, more unusual experiences for customers and improved workplace wellbeing for hospitality staff. But these key industry changes will eventually have a knock-on impact on insurance:
Actions to take in 2026:
- Security – Investing in security could help to mitigate risks and reduce the likelihood of you needing to make a claim. For example, CCTV cameras act as a strong deterrent against theft, fraud and violence.
- Experiences – As customers seek bigger and better experiences, venues are likely to begin hosting one-off events and live experienced to meet demand. These additional events pose different risks, and therefore might not be included as standard within your insurance policy.
- Employees – Dissatisfied and disengaged employees are more likely to make mistakes, cause damage to your business or expose your business to external threats. Prioritising workplace wellbeing and looking after team members at every level could not only make your employees happier, but it could be a great business decision.
How will insurance be affected next year?
Every venue’s policy is different, though we don’t expect a rise in premiums or excess in any specific area of insurance. If you made a substantial claim this year then it’s likely your insurance will have a slight increase upon renewal but this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis by your insurer. Having a broker on hand to help and defend you can help bring your premium down.
At NDML, we fight on your side. We negotiate with insurers for better terms and premiums. Our experts have seen it all and know how best to classify aspects of your property. Contact us for a confidential review.
What additional cover should I consider?
Each night-time venue is entirely different. For example, a hotel will present very different risks when compared to a restaurant or nightclub. Never look for a ‘one size fits all’ policy as it won’t be tailored to your needs and might not adequately cover you for all the what ifs your business faces. NDML are specialists in the industry and know the specific cover to look out for.
We advise venue owners and managers to consider Cyber Insurance to protect your venue should an attack happen. Stats show 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses, with 60% of those businesses failing within six months of an attack. Attackers are looking for sensitive data, such as customer records or financial information. And there are often few ways to prevent an attack, with 48% of data breaches caused by a negligent employee or contractor. The best way to protect your business from experiencing huge financial ramifications is to choose Cyber Insurance, which will pay out to cover you against any attack.
Terrorism cover is also worth considering. You might not be the specific target of an attack, but terrorism could still impact your business. If an area is cordoned off for an extended period of time or you lose revenue due to less footfall to an area in the aftermath of an attack your business could be significantly impacted. Comprehensive Terrorism insurance will give you peace of mind that, should an attack affect you, your business will be safe in the long-term.
Directors and Officers should also consider Management Liability cover. Business owners and senior management can have personal claims made against them. And these claims might not be covered under the business’s liability insurance. This type of insurance protects the finances of the company and the personal wealth of its directors.
Get ready for next year with a confidential insurance review
You don’t have to jump ship straight away. If you’re prepping for insurance renewal and need some free advice on whether your current insurance is offering adequate protection, you’ve come to the right place. NDML offers a free confidential review to help you make an informed decision.