I want to hire a mural painter. How would I protect myself from accident lawsuits?

Question

I want to hire an independant mural painter. Should I write a contract? What should I do in order to protect myself in case he/she falls and sues me? What to write in that contract?

Answer 1

Most qualified painters should be bonded/insured , so that you aren't liable. But if they aren't, I would draw up a contract that simply states that: I____________(your name there) will not be held responible for any accidents or injuries incurred while ________(name of your muralist) is under my employment. etc. Just date it and make them sign it, give them a copy. You might ask your insurance company about it before hand, and they could suggest or even give you a legal form to use. I drew up my own like that for a tree trimmer one time...."just in case":) I didn't want him to think I was a jerk, so I told him that it was "required" by my insurance company:)
Good Luck!!

Answer 2

Make sure they carry their own insurance and medical coverage.

Otherwise consult your own insurance carrier, they will tell you if you are covered or if you should take out a short term policy for this project.

Always have a contract with anyone doing work for you! Specify when the mural must be finished. Some up front money will be expected, but don't pay the final bill until all the work is done on time and according to the contract. You can write penalties for being late in completeing the project, that often helps remind them to get the job done on time.

Don't supply any equipment.......if they fall, it's your equipment that will be blamed.

Answer 3

Your home owners insurance would/should cover something like that but if the mural painter is a professional, he should also have liability insurance. Might have your attorney draft a quick contract that contains something about if the muralist is injured on your property then you are not held liable.

Answer 4

First, yes you should have a contract. You can buy a pretty iron clad one at most office supply and stationery stores. They have standard protection clauses. Second, if you have business or home owner's insurance you have liability coverage for such occasions. Check your policy for coverage amounts and limitations. You can also take out excess liability insurance or umbrella liability policies. Being that I use independent contractors, artists and trades people all of the time for my business, I require THEM to be insured, bonded and licensed to work on my jobsites. You can request to see their insurance and bond information.