Common Equine Insurance Questions
Horse owners, trainers, and stable managers in Ireland face a unique set of responsibilities. Whether you’re caring for competition horses, managing bloodstock, or running a busy livery yard, having the right insurance is essential. At Clear Insurance Ireland Equine Insurance, we answer many questions daily. Below are the six most common questions we hear—along with expert guidance to help you stay protected with confidence.
1. What Types of Equine Insurance Do I Need?
This is by far the most frequently asked question. Equine insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends heavily on your role in the equestrian world. For horse owners, essential policies include mortality insurance and veterinary fee coverage. Trainers generally require public liability, employers’ liability, and care, custody, and control (CCC) insurance.
Additionally, stable and yard owners may need buildings and equipment insurance. For breeders or those with high-value horses, bloodstock insurance is critical. Because every setup is different, working with a specialist broker like Clear Insurance Ireland ensures your coverage fits your exact situation.
2. Does My Policy Cover Veterinary Fees?
Not all equine policies automatically include veterinary fee coverage. Mortality insurance only covers death due to accident or illness. Therefore, vet fees must be added separately. Even then, it’s important to note that policy limits and exclusions will apply.
For instance, some policies might not cover diagnostic imaging or pre-existing conditions. Others could cap claims per condition or per year. That’s why reading the fine print and working with an informed advisor is essential. Vet bills—especially for colic surgery or fractures—can escalate quickly. Having the right coverage in place gives you peace of mind when your horse needs urgent care.
3. What Is Care, Custody and Control (CCC) Insurance, and Do I Need It?
Yes, you do—if you handle horses you don’t own. CCC insurance protects you if a horse in your care is injured or dies due to your negligence. This type of cover is especially relevant for racehorse trainers, riding schools, livery yard managers, and equine transporters.
For example, if a horse gets injured while loading into a trailer or during turnout, CCC insurance ensures you won’t face the financial consequences alone. In contrast, public liability insurance covers injury or damage to third parties. CCC, on the other hand, focuses specifically on the horses themselves.
4. Do I Need Public Liability Insurance Even if I Don’t Teach or Compete?
Absolutely. Public liability insurance is essential for anyone who owns, rides, or stables horses. Accidents can occur even on private land or during a quiet hack. If your horse escapes and causes an incident, you could be held responsible.
Even without engaging in commercial activities, you’re still liable for your horse’s actions. Therefore, this type of insurance isn’t just for instructors or event organisers—it’s necessary for every horse owner.
5. How Do I Know What My Horse Is Worth for Insurance Purposes?
Getting the value right is crucial. If your horse is overinsured, your payout will still be based on market value, not the sum insured. Market value typically reflects the horse’s age, breed, training level, and competition record.
Sometimes, especially with performance or breeding stock, insurers will require a recent purchase invoice or professional valuation. Clear Insurance Ireland recommends regularly reviewing your horse’s insured value. Standard mortality policies pay out based on market value at the time of loss, so keeping this figure up to date ensures accurate coverage.
Client Example: James, a trainer from Cork, contacted us after a significant win in a point-to-point event. We helped him update his horse’s insured value, giving him peace of mind that the new market value was fully protected.
6. What Should I Look for in an Equine Insurance Broker?
Not every broker understands the specific needs of equestrians. That’s why choosing a specialist like Clear Insurance Ireland makes such a difference. You should look for brokers who:
-
Provide tailored policies
-
Are accessible and easy to contact
-
Understand the daily realities of equestrian life
-
Offer real support during claims, not just when selling a policy
A good broker won’t just hand you a policy document. Instead, they’ll ask about your horse’s activities, location, and health. With this information, they can create a policy that reflects actual risk, not just assumptions. While the above are common equine Insurance questions, there are plenty more.
Ready to Get Equine Insurance?
With the right coverage in place, you can focus on what truly matters—caring for and working with your horses. Every equestrian setup in Ireland is different, so understanding your specific insurance needs is key. At Clear Insurance Ireland, we take pride in tailoring equine insurance for individuals, trainers, and businesses alike.
If you’re unsure about your current policy or simply want expert advice, we’re here to help. Reach out today for a free, no-obligation review.
For expert equine insurance advice in Ireland, trust Clear Insurance Ireland. Because horses deserve more than hope—they deserve protection.
Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Insurance terms and conditions vary. These Common Equine Insurance Questions are do not represent focused consumer research. Always consult a qualified broker to ensure your policy is appropriate for your needs.
