Do You Need Insurance on an Allotment?

At the National Allotment Society (NAS), we know allotments are more than just plots of land — they are
spaces for growing food, learning, and building community. But accidents can happen.......

Whether someone trips on a path, property is damaged, or a visitor is injured. That’s why insurance is an essential part of protecting yourself and your association. If you’re an individual plot holder, part of a volunteer group, or running an association, understanding insurance is key to safeguarding yourself, your members, and your allotment.

Think about it: you wouldn’t drive a car without insurance, or leave your home without contents cover, so why risk being uninsured on your allotment?

Insurance for Individual Plot Holders

As an individual member of the National Allotment Society, you can enrol in the Allotmenteers Liability Insurance (ALI), which protects you if you are accused of accidentally causing bodily injury or property damage to someone else.

Coverage up to £5,000,000, including legal defence costs and awards

Applies at your allotment and at allotment-related shows or events

Eligibility: Individual, life, or affiliate members
Exclusions: Work or business-related activities, damage to your own property, tree-felling, mechanically propelled vehicles, and property owners’ liability.

What if you don’t have it?
Without insurance, even a small accident could leave you personally liable for compensation and legal costs — potentially thousands of pounds. Just like driving or home insurance, ALI protects you from unexpected, costly situations.

Insurance for Associations

Allotment associations carry additional responsibilities, including communal areas, equipment, and organising events. NAS members can access bespoke association insurance via Chris Knott Insurance to meet members’ needs.

Typical Cover Includes:

Public Liability Insurance: Up to £10 million for injury or property damage, covering members and optionally landlords
Employers’ Liability Insurance: Up to £10 million for employees or volunteers
Trusted Persons Insurance: Protects committee members against errors or omissions, up to £100,000
Cup & Trophy Protection: Covers association-owned awards
Abandoned Events Cover: Reimburses cancelled events
Loss of Money Insurance: Covers lost money in transit or temporarily held by officials

What if your association isn’t insured?
Accidents happen, and claims can be costly — even with precautions in place. Insurance ensures your association can run safely without risking financial ruin.

Insurance for Groups or Events

Small gardening clubs, volunteer groups, or community events also benefit from insurance:

Protect volunteers while working together
Cover events, workshops, or shows
Ensure legal claims are handled by insurers, not out-of-pocket by members

Without coverage, a single incident could jeopardise the whole group or event financially.

Bottom Line

At the National Allotment Society (NAS) , we know allotments are more
than just plots of land — they are spaces for growing food, learning, and building community. But accidents can happen, whether someone trips on a path, property is damaged, or a visitor is injured. That’s why insurance is an essential part of protecting yourself and your association.

Whether you’re an individual plot holder, part of a volunteer group, or running an association, understanding insurance is key to safeguarding yourself, your members, and your allotment.

Think about it: you wouldn’t drive a car without insurance, or leave your home without contents cover, so why risk being uninsured on your allotment?

The answer is clear — yes, you need insurance.
It provides peace of mind, protects you from potentially costly legal claims, and ensures that accidents don’t turn into personal or financial disasters. Whether you’re tending your plot, running an event, or volunteering with your community, insurance means you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your allotment and helping your community thrive.
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Join The National Allotment Society

Become a National Allotment Society member and help to preserve and protect allotments for future generations.

You'll also gain a range of benefits including free liability insurance, initial legal support, expert advice and much more.

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National Society of Allotment & Leisure Gardeners Ltd
Registered in 1930 under the Industrial & Provident Societies Acts no. 11144R
VAT No. 1212930 14
Patron His Majesty King Charles III

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