Insurance
Knowledge Center: Legislation & Regulations
Knowledge Center: Legislation & Regulations
Insurance for volunteers: what arrangements are in place?
As a volunteer, you assume you are well covered if something goes wrong. However, whether that is the case depends on the organization you work for—and the municipality where you live. This article provides clarity.
As a volunteer, you assume you are well covered if something goes wrong. However, whether that is the case depends on the organization you work for—and the municipality where you live. This article provides clarity.
Two basic insurance policies every organization should have
Liability insurance
If a volunteer accidentally causes damage to a third party—such as a visitor, a building, or someone’s belongings—this insurance covers the costs. The volunteer’s own personal liability insurance (AVP) may also cover this in some cases, but that is not always guaranteed, and not everyone has such a policy.
As an organization, ensure you have liability insurance that also covers volunteer activities.
Accident insurance
If a volunteer is injured while performing their duties, accident insurance provides a payout in the event of permanent injury or death. This does not replace health insurance but serves as supplementary coverage.
Municipal volunteer insurance
Many municipalities have taken out a collective insurance policy for all volunteers active within their municipal boundaries. This typically covers both liability and accidents and applies automatically—you do not need to sign up for it.
Check with your municipality to see if such insurance exists and what the terms are. Coverage varies by municipality.
What is not covered?
Volunteer insurance policies have exclusions. Common exclusions include:
- Damage caused by willful misconduct or gross negligence
- Damage to the volunteer's own personal property
- Activities outside the scope of defined duties
- Use of motor vehicles (the driver's own car insurance applies here)
Read the policy terms and conditions—or ask your insurer for a summary.
What if the organization has no insurance?
That is a problem. As a volunteer, you face a higher risk. Ask the organization about this before you start. A reputable organization will be able to answer this immediately.
For coordinators or board members: insurance is not a luxury but a fundamental responsibility. For most small organizations, the premium is affordable.
Next step
Not sure if your organization is adequately insured? Contact your insurer or check if the municipality offers a collective insurance scheme.