Why Is It Important That My Contractor Have Workers Compensation Insurance
Why Contractors Need to Have Workers Compensation Insurance
As a homeowner, chances are that you will have to hire someone to help you fix something around your home. Whether you need to install siding, fix the plumbing, or trim trees around your home, it is imperative that the contractor you hire is fully insured. If you don’t believe us just google “contractor horror stories.” Here is a fun fact, in 2011 the Federal Trade Commission received more than 13,000 home repair-related complaints! Do we have your attention now?
Just because you have homeowners’ insurance doesn’t mean you are covered.
If you hire a contractor who accidentally sets your house on fire your homeowners’ insurance would probably cover it. Things it won’t cover are things like poor workmanship
Always ask, “What type of insurance do you carry”
The answer should consist of:
- Workers Comp
- Personal Liability
- Property Damage
Another question to ask is if they will be using subcontractors. They too will need insurance. If they ask you what is covered under your home insurance this is a big red flag!
It is wise to have them email you copies of insurance certificates. Make sure they are not expired, otherwise you, the homeowner, could be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.
Why hire contractors who have Workers Compensation Insurance?
- Hiring an insured contractor will protect your property from damage and save you money. In any case, an insured contractor damages your property in the course of his work, then you can be paid by his insurance company.
- You will not be responsible for any injuries suffered on the job. An insured contractor who gets hurt in the course of his work on your property will not be your responsibility. This contractor can file for damages with his insurance company.
- You will be assured of the quality of work done. Insured contractors are habitually more responsible in their work than those who are not insured.
Beware of Uninsured Contractors
You might experience a contractor might seek to convince you that insurance is not important for their service, but that is not true. Don’t fall for it. They might even offer to sweeten the deal by quoting fees that are lower than the industry’s average. You might think that you are saving money by hiring an uninsured contractor but it could cost you big time.
Our Final Thought
So, you had asked, “ Does it really matter if my contractors have insurance.” and we have given an elaborate answer (YES!). Always make sure that you hire a contractor from a company with a good reputation. At Structured Foundation, all of our technicians are insured and will always make sure that they furnish you with a copy of our insurance certificate before they start working on your property. Contact us today for a free assessment of your foundation.