Connect the contract to the service
Record the event address, guest count, setup, hired staff and equipment. Identify the venue’s requested limits and endorsements. Ask how rented premises, setup and breakdown are treated rather than assuming insurance starts only when food is served.
Does the accepted activity include setup, service and breakdown at this venue?
Call out alcohol and outside suppliers
Explain who supplies or serves alcohol and which subcontractors are involved. Ask about licensing and insurance responsibilities with the relevant parties. A venue’s policy or a supplier’s certificate does not by itself settle the caterer’s responsibilities under the contract.
Who is responsible for alcohol service and subcontracted work?
Make the next conversation useful
Bring the current documents and explain any changes. These details are a useful starting point:
- Menus and food-handling procedures
- Kitchen and event locations
- Event sizes and annual revenue
Ask the provider to connect its answer to the actual policy or eligibility terms, including exclusions, dates and reporting conditions. Keep the confirmed answer with the offer.
Sources & further reading
General insurance principles and the jurisdiction-specific references below support further reading. Examples are illustrative; individual policy terms require provider confirmation. Content updated October 11, 2026.