Will Insurance Cover a Contractor or Handyman Injury on Your Property

Inviting a contractor or handyman onto your property seems straightforward. You need a job done and they’re there to do it. But what happens if that individual is injured while working at your home? Who is responsible for their medical bills or lost wages?

The answer can be complicated, and your homeowners insurance might not protect you as much as you think.

The Gray Area of Liability

In many cases, if a contractor is injured on your property, they may look to you, the homeowner, to cover damages. This is often the case if they are uninsured or underinsured. According to the National Safety Council, more than 20% of all worker injuries in the U.S. occur in the construction industry, which includes contractors and handymen. These injuries can lead to costly lawsuits if there is no clear insurance coverage in place.

Homeowners insurance often includes personal liability coverage, which could respond if someone is injured due to your negligence, such as a loose stair causing a fall. But if the contractor is classified as working in a professional capacity, insurers may view the situation differently. Many policies exclude coverage for workplace injuries involving hired professionals. This is especially the case if the injured party should have their own workers’ compensation or liability insurance.

The Importance of Verification

Before allowing any worker, including a contractor, handyman, or landscaper onto your property, always request proof of:

• General liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation insurance
• Business licensing (if applicable)

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 75,000 nonfatal injuries occurred in 2022 among specialty trade contractors alone, highlighting the real risk of injury in everyday home improvement work.

What You Can Do

1. Verify insurance before work begins. Ask for certificates and confirm they’re current.
2. Document the agreement, including the scope of work and who's responsible for what.
3. Contact your insurance agent to confirm how your homeowners policy would respond in the event of an injury.
4. Avoid paying cash "under the table," as it can further complicate liability.

Final Word

What seems like a simple project can turn into a legal and financial headache if someone gets hurt on your property. Don’t assume contractors and handymen have the proper insurance or that your insurance will cover every scenario. Take the time to verify proper coverage, because protecting your home also means protecting yourself.