My fully rigged cinema camera (cage, monitor, V-mount, follow focus, wireless video) was stolen. I had insured the “Camera Body” for $4,000. The rig was worth $10,000. Insurance paid $4,000. They said: “You didn’t list the accessories.”
Key Takeaways
- The “Rig” Trap: Videographers build rigs where the accessories cost more than the camera. Insuring the “Sony FX6” does NOT insure the Teradek, SmallHD, and Tilta cage attached to it.
- Blanket “Misc” Coverage: You need a “Miscellaneous Equipment” or “Unscheduled Gear” line item with a limit high enough to cover all the bits and bobs (e.g., $20,000).
- Itemize High Value: Anything over $500 (Wireless video, Monitors) should be itemized to ensure full value is paid without dispute.
- Proof of Purchase: For a rig with 50 parts, you need 50 receipts. Keep a digital folder of every B&H order.
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “Component Valuation.”
You see “one camera.” The insurer sees “one body” + “uninsured accessories.”
If you claim a Sony FX6 package worth $10,000 but only provide a receipt for the body ($6,000), they’ll pay $6,000. You must prove the remaining $4,000 in accessories existed to get the full payout.
The Investigation (My Analysis of Rigs)
I looked at how to insure the “Franken-rig.”
TCP / Hill & Usher
- The Strategy: Schedule the main items (Camera, Lens, Monitor, Transmitter). Lump the rest (cages, rods, cables, batteries) into a “Misc Video Accessories” bucket valuated at $5,000.
- The Benefit: You don’t have to update the policy every time you buy a $50 clamp.
PPA
- The Risk: PPA has a per-item limit sometimes, or a total cap ($15k). A full cinema rig can easily exceed $15k. You might be underinsured.
[IMAGE: Photo of a fully built-out cinema camera rig with labels pointing to “Insured” (Body) and “Uninsured” (Monitor, Battery, Wireless)]
Comparison Table
| Item | Listed on Schedule | Unlisted | Payout |
| Camera Body | Yes | N/A | Full Value |
| Monitor ($2k) | No | N/A | $0 (unless Misc coverage) |
| Cables/Cage | No | Yes (Misc) | Covered up to Misc limit |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Build a Spreadsheet: List every component on your rig. Sum the value.
- Update Policy Limit: Ensure your total limit matches the Sum.
- Photos of the Build: Take a photo of the full rig. This proves you owned the accessories at the time of loss.
- Bundle Cables: Estimate cable value high. SDI/HDMI/Power cables add up to $1,000 fast.
FAQ
Are batteries covered?
Yes. V-Mounts are expensive ($300+). List them in “Misc.”
What if I change my rig setup?
If you rely on “Misc” coverage, it’s fine. If you itemized, you need to update the agent.
Is the matte box covered?
Yes.