Insurance Guide
Gear changes hands on Xquip, but cover doesn't come with it. Here's a plain-language rundown of how insurance usually works for equipment hire in Australia.
Why it matters
When you hire gear through Xquip, the renter is responsible for the equipment from pickup until return. If something is lost, stolen, or damaged, the cost falls on the people involved — not on Xquip. Having the right cover in place protects both sides and makes a claim far less painful.
Common types of cover
- Equipment / contents insurance — covers the gear itself against loss, theft, or accidental damage. Owners often hold an annual policy on their kit; some policies can extend to gear while it's out on hire.
- Hirer's / short-term cover — a renter can sometimes arrange cover for the specific hire period rather than a full annual policy.
- Public liability — covers third-party injury or property damage on set (separate from the gear itself, but commonly required on productions).
What renters typically need
If you're hiring gear, you're usually responsible for it while it's in your care. Check whether you need short-term cover for the hire window, what the excess is, and whether the policy covers the full replacement value listed on the item.
What owners typically consider
If you're listing gear, check whether your existing policy covers items while they're rented out to others, and what evidence an insurer expects (serial numbers, condition records, hire agreements). Xquip stores a replacement value on each listing to help frame this.
How claims usually work
- Document condition at pickup and return (photos, timestamps).
- Keep the booking record and any messages — Xquip retains your order history.
- Report incidents to your insurer promptly; most policies have time limits.
- Expect to pay an excess, and check whether cover is "new for old" or depreciated value.
A specialist option
For film and video gear specifically, a specialist broker understands the equipment and the way productions work better than a generic insurer. One Australian specialist you can look into is:
Film Insurance Australia — filminsuranceaustralia.com.au
We're sharing this as a starting point, not a recommendation that it suits your circumstances. Compare options and confirm with the provider directly.
Questions
General questions about how Xquip handles gear responsibility? Email support@xquip.com.au. For anything about a specific policy or claim, talk to your broker or insurer.