How can I protect my house from workers if they get hurt?

Question

I just purchased a house and am going to have some people work on it before I move in.

Is there a legal document I could have them sing and notarize that would protect my home if they get hurt while working on the property?

Answer 1

Use only a licensed and bonded company to do the work on your house. They should be carrying their own worker's comp insurance (ask for proof) to protect the workers and you in case of accidents and damage.

If you still choose to use day laborers that you pick up in front of Home Depot (which is now illegal in lots of areas), make sure you have homeowner's insurance that will cover them in case of an accident. There is nothing for them to sign that will help you if they get hurt.

Answer 2

You cannot 'document' yourself out of liability, no matter what you have them sign. If these 'workers' are not prepared to provide you certificates of insurance which they carry to protect themselves and you from a lawsuit, then you need to find an insurance policy to cover YOU when they are on your premises.

Answer 3

not sure where you are from??

in australia, a worker would normally be covered by their own workers compensation.

if they don't have workers comp insurance and something happens to them on your premise, then it's their own stupid fault.

they could only sue you if you did something negligent which caused them to be injured on your premises. For example, you left your vicious dog out and it attacked them. You would be negligent if you knew your dog was vicious and didn't tie it up before they came on to the premises. they would claim from the public liability portion of your building insurance.

but i bet you're not from australia.

Answer 4

Any licensed contractor should carry workers compensation insurance. Do not use one that doesn't. Ask for evidence of insurance.

Without it, your homeowners insurance would cover their injuries; you'll take a huge hit on your premium.