A waiver for Installers

[Pascale]

Is there a sample or somewhat of guide on how do you handle Independent Installers who does not carry any insurance? Do they come back to us and file workmans comp or can we draw up a waiver or an agreement where they can sign and release us from any obliglations.

[carl6]

Your questions are best answered by a lawyer familiar with your local laws. If you are considering hiring/using independent installers, my opinion (and I am not a lawyer) is that you either need to have the necessary insurance to cover them, or require them to have the necessary insurance. Anything less would expose you to substantial risk.

[hobie346]

Is there a sample or somewhat of guide on how do you handle Independent Installers who does not carry any insurance? Do they come back to us and file Workman's comp or can we draw up a waiver or an agreement where they can sign and release us from any obliglations.

:welcome_s

I've never dealt with a contractor that didn't have, at least, workman comp. Using a independent contractor without insurance coverage is like walking around an open gas can while holding a lit cigarette - not very conducive to your mental health.

[David MacLeod]

while it was a long time ago my room mate and I were subs for primestar installs. he was required to have insurance and, if any on the books, comp for his workers.
the policy needed to be a million dollar liability coverage for any house, grounds, vehicle damage, etc. iirc this was in addition to normal vehicle insurance.

[LinkNuc]

Usually your homeowners insurance has a liability clause and its usually very cheap. I think mine is like 4 bucks a year and covers 100K. Now of course if the asshat sues then you are screwed. It varies by state and the minimum covered also varies. If you are that worried, I'd go with someone that is known. People are abusing the insurance companies, and its a round about we can't quite fix, kinda like health care.

[joe diamond]

Good question!
Independent Contractors......will have most insurance because they must post a certificate before they can work. Marinas, large construction projects, property management companies all require a certificate. And it is not hard to get one sent.

What you have to worry about are individuals who are being paid by independent contractors. If these folks are employees you have no worries...the workman's compensation of their employer insurance covers them. If they are regarded as subcontractors there will be an attempt to refuse responsibility for their actions.

You could ask them at the door what there status is. However, as an independent contractor they can and do report that your work is too complex for the money offered. They should be able to demand more money or be free to refuse the work. If they are penalized for this refusal they are employees.

It is more complex than the example I have given.

Joe

[pressureman0]

where in south fl are you ?