homeworker insurance

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• Small business insurance

Working from home and homeworker insurance

Specialist cover for professionals based at home from £5 a month*

Fast, easy online quote in 90 seconds

Interest free direct debit

No hidden fees or cancellation charges

Working from home carries many unique risks, so if you’re a homeworker, it’s vital you are properly insured.

As a specialist insurer with over 30 years’ experience insuring professionals, we have designed our homeworker insurance policies to cover the risks facing home-based professionals.

Unlike many insurers that offer a ‘one size fits all’ policy for both homeworkers and office-based businesses, we offer separate, specialist homeworker policies that can be tailored to the specific risks facing your home business.

If you are unsure which types of protection your business needs, we can help you tailor your homeworker insurance. Our simple quote system allows you to choose the cover you want at a premium you can afford.

Do I need specialist ‘working from home' insurance?

While specialist home working insurance isn’t a legal necessity, if you run a business from home, it’s a good idea to have this kind of protection in place.

Home workers face a variety of risks. Without the right insurance, a mistake in a piece of work, damage you cause to a client’s property or the theft of a laptop could cost your business thousands of pounds.

How does working from home affect home insurance?

Home insurance doesn’t usually cover people when they work from home. Instead, home insurance usually covers:

• damage to the structure of your building from fires, storms and floods
• theft of contents, such as furniture, clothing and electronics
• fire or water damage to your belongings, such as furniture, clothing and electronics
• vandalism of contents, such as furniture, clothing and electronics

Unfortunately, home insurance is unlikely to offer home workers the specialist protection they need. If you work from home, you may want to consider taking out personal possessions cover as part of your home insurance to protect you against the loss, damage or theft of items you may take out and about for work. Personal possessions insurance can cover a variety of items, including:

• musical instruments
• sports equipment

In addition, if you run a business, you’ll need to make sure you have the right business insurance in place. For example, if you employ workers, you’ll need employers’ liability insurance . If you deal with members of the public, you should consider taking out public liability insurance , and if you give advice or offer a professional service in the course of your work, you’ll require professional indemnity insurance .

Why choose Markel for working from home insurance?

At Markel, we understand the unique risks that homeworkers face and are well placed to provide insurance products that fit their requirements. With over three decades of experience offering sector-specific advice to freelancers, contractors, SMEs, charities and community groups, you can rely on us to give you the cover you need.

If you’re looking for work from home insurance, we can help. Here are some of the reasons you should consider taking out a policy with us:

✔ Policies from £5 a month

We believe that we can offer affordable work from home insurance which will help you to get the cover you need whilst trying to keep your expenses to a minimum.

✔ Quotes in under two minutes

It only takes 90 seconds to get a quote with Markel. All you have to do is fill out a simple online form and we’ll do the rest.

✔ Customer recommended

We insure more than 200,000 micro businesses and have excellent customer experience reviews on Feefo.com .

✔ Reliable cover

We are a division of Markel International, a Lloyd’s and London market insurer that wrote £1.09 billion of gross premium totals in 2020.

✔ Round-the-clock legal advice

With Markel, there’s no need to wait to get your questions answered. If you take out a policy with us, you’ll get access to a 24/7 legal helpline staffed by qualified solicitors.

*The £5 a month premium referenced above is based on a public liability insurance policy with a £1m level of cover.

What insurance do I need to work from home?

Whether you’re a freelance photographer or you run a tutoring business, if you work from home, there are a variety of insurance products you may need. As a starting point, you should consider public liability, professional indemnity, employers’ liability and business equipment insurance.

Do I need public liability insurance to work from home?

If members of the public visit your home for business purposes, then you should have public liability insurance in place. Public liability safeguards your business against compensation claims, and the associated legal costs, if a third party becomes injured or their property is damaged due to your work.

For example, if a customer visits your business to collect an order and slips on a wet floor, you could be held liable for compensation. Similarly, if a dressmaker ripped a client’s wedding dress while making alterations, they could be responsible for paying damages.

Do I need insurance for employees working from home?

If you employ workers, you are legally obliged to have employers’ liability in place - whether they work from home or not. You must take out this cover as soon as you become an employer and your policy must cover you for at least £5 million. Employers’ liability is there to protect you should an employee sustain an injury or develop an illness because of the work they do for you. There are however situations in which this cover isn’t necessary. For example, if you only employ a family member or someone who is based abroad, you may be exempt.

Do I need business equipment insurance working from home?

Business equipment insurance is designed to cover against the loss, theft and accidental damage of necessary equipment, such as laptops, tablets and smartphones. If you use any such equipment while working from home, you should consider taking out this type of insurance.

Do I need professional indemnity insurance working from home?

Professional indemnity insurance can protect you if you’ve made a mistake, provided poor advice or acted negligently and it has resulted in financial loss or reputational damage for your client. If you provide advice, offer a professional service, handle client data or are responsible for intellectual property, you should consider taking out professional indemnity insurance - whether you work from home or not.

For example, if a freelance copywriter is accused of plagiarism or a counsellor was found to give incorrect advice or guidance, legal action could be taken against them. In these cases, PI insurance could cover the cost of compensation awarded to the clients, as well as any legal costs.

How much working from home cover should I have?

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to working from home cover. What may suit one individual may not necessarily suit another.

Exactly how much cover you will need depends on a variety of factors, including:

• the size of your business
• the nature of your business
• how many visitors you have to your property
• how often you have visitors to your property
• the amount of equipment you have

To discuss your specific requirements, get in touch with our customer service team or get a quote in just 90 seconds.

*£5 a month price is based on a marketing consultant requiring £1 million of public liability insurance.

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Policy Documents

Summary of cover

Policy wording

Cover starting at £5 a month

Tailor your homeworker insurance with these specialist covers, professional indemnity insurance.

Professional indemnity insurance  covers the cost of defending your business against allegations of professional negligence (such as giving your client incorrect or wrongful advice) and any compensation or damages subsequently awarded against you. This is vital protection for all homeworkers and insurance cover is available with limits ranging from £50,000 to £5m.

Public and product liability insurance

Public and product liability insurance  covers the cost of defending your business (including damages awarded against you if unsuccessful) if someone is injured, or their property damaged, which arises from you going about your business or supplying products. The legal fees alone could cost your business thousands of pounds. This is an important cover if you regularly deal with clients or members of the public. Limits range from £1m to £5m.

Employer’s liability insurance

Employer’s liability insurance  is a legal requirement if your business has employees. It covers your business against claims for injury or illness suffered by employees arising from their employment. Regardless of the industry you work in, if your business employs staff, you need this cover. Cover for £10m.

Legal expenses insurance

Legal expenses insurance pays your legal costs and expenses for contract disputes, tax enquiries (including IR35), attending jury service, debt recovery, personal injury, as well as any award you are required to pay following an employment dispute with an employee. There is a limit of £100,000.

If a client takes legal action against you because of an error you have made, this cover can prevent you from needing to use your own finances to cover legal expenses.

Directors and officers insurance

Directors and officers insurance  covers the costs of defending you as a director or officer of your company against allegations of wrongful acts and any damages subsequently awarded against you. Cover is also provided in respect of the legal costs and expenses of defending actions for disqualification as a director, investigations and extradition proceedings. Limits range from £100,000 to £5m.

Office insurance

Home  office insurance  covers your office buildings, office contents and computer equipment against accidental damage (including theft) whilst on your business premises. You can also choose to cover your business equipment (such as laptops and mobile phones) on a worldwide basis, and insure your business against loss of income and/or additional trading expenses following events such as damage to your property.

Occupational personal accident insurance

Occupational personal accident insurance provides a weekly payment if you are unable to work due to temporary total disablement (subject to a 14 day deferment period).

In the event of loss of limbs, sight, speech, hearing, permanent total disablement or death, a lump sum would be paid out.

If you would struggle to maintain an income if you were unable to work following the accident, you should consider having occupational personal accident insurance to help ease the financial burden. Limits from £100/week to £500/week for temporary total disablement (£25k lump sum to £100k lump sum for permanent total disablement).

Cyber and data risks insurance

Cyber and data risks insurance  pays the costs of restoring data and equipment, informing clients, meeting ransom demands and loss of your net profit following a cyber attack. It also pays your legal defence costs and damages you are legally liable to pay to other parties. If you hold confidential information about your clients and their projects on computers and other internet connected devices, you should consider to this cover.

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Frequently asked questions

Does my home insurance cover my garden office.

If you use a garden office for recreational use, your home insurance package should provide the cover you need. However, if you use it for business purposes, you may require commercial cover in the form of homeworker’s insurance.

Do I need business insurance if working from home?

Yes, regardless of whether you work from home or not, if you work as a contractor, freelancer or if you run an SME, charity or community group, you should have the appropriate insurance in place.

For example, you may require employers’ liability insurance if you have employees, public liability insurance if you come into contact with members of the public or professional indemnity insurance if you provide advice or a professional service.

At Markel, we can create a home worker’s insurance package that is tailored to your specific needs and covers the risks you face.

Does working from home affect my car insurance?

If you use your own car in the course of your business activities, you might need to amend your car insurance to cover the miles you travel on top of non-work driving.

Your current policy may only cover social, domestic and pleasure (SDP) use, also known as ‘social only’ use. This covers things like going shopping, visiting family and friends and going on days out. You may also have cover for social, domestic and pleasure including commuting (SDP+C) use.

Some comprehensive policies cover business use as standard but you should check your policy. If you drive for business reasons, for example to deliver an order to a customer or to go to a client meeting, and you don’t have suitable cover in place, you’re breaking the law and risk being fined and getting points on your licence. You could even be disqualified from driving.

Do I have to tell my insurer I work from home?

It’s important that your home insurer has as full a picture as possible of your circumstances so it’s a good idea to tell your insurer if you work from home, even if it is just on a part-time or occasional basis. You must tell your insurer if any of the following apply:

• You’ve moved a business to your home or are planning to
• You make, sell or store goods at your home
• Members of the public visit your home for business reasons
• You’ve adapted your home for business purposes
• You’ve purchased equipment that belongs to your business

Does home insurance cost more if you run a business from home?

If you run a business from home, your insurer will need to take this into consideration when calculating the cost of your premium. You may find that your premium increases, especially if you have regular visitors to your property for business purposes or you store valuable goods or hazardous equipment for work at your home.

What’s considered ‘business use’?

Business use is usually defined as any activity performed in a repeated or continued way for financial gain.

How is Markel regulated?

Markel is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority (FCA registered number 202570). You can find out more on the Financial Services Register .

Specialist services available to Markel policyholders

Our policyholders receive access to these unique services designed to make your life easier (included as standard with certain covers).

24 hour legal advice helpline

When you insure with Markel, you'll benefit from 24/7 telephone access to a qualified solicitor at no additional cost. Expert legal advice can be costly when you're working for yourself and it's difficult to know who to turn to for a trustworthy answer. Whether it's a question on health and safety, employment law, legal structures for your business or how to handle a difficult client, an experienced team of solicitors are on hand day and night to help you with any business-related legal queries. Included as standard with all policies.

 Markel Business Hub access

In addition to our 24 hour legal helpline, you'll have access to the Markel Business Hub - an award winning online resource of legal and business guides, templates and content written and created by our team of expert solicitors. Instantly download ready-made contracts, policies, procedures and guidance you can use for your business - without paying any expensive legal fees. Included as standard with all policies.

Fee dispute service

Customers don't always pay on time and chasing fees or invoices costs time and money. Mindful of the impact this has on your business, we offer our policyholders access to a unique fee dispute helpline operated by one of the UK's leading law firms, who will provide specialist legal guidance and support on fee dispute issues. Included as standard with professional indemnity insurance.

Discounted IR35 contract reviews

Falling within IR35 legislation - which determines that an individual is avoiding tax by using a limited company to disguise employment - is a huge concern for contractors and consultants, with the fees and penalties due to HMRC eye-wateringly high. Our policyholders receive an exclusive discount on IR35 contract reviews from Markel Tax (a Markel company), who have over 20 years experience advising individuals and businesses on their tax status. As part of the service, Markel Tax will review your contract, along with your working practices, to determine whether or not you are operating outside of IR35, and you'll receive a written report with suggested contract amendments where appropriate. Policyholders can access this service by calling 0345 223 2727 or emailing [email protected] , quoting 'MKLD' and your policy number.

Public relations crisis management service

In today's 24 hour news culture, public relations disasters can occur at any time. Having to deal with the press whilst managing a difficult situation can be hugely stressful as well as being a potential minefield. When there is a risk to your business as a result of negative press attention, our specialist public relations crisis management firm, The Counsel House, will work with you to help manage allegations of fraud, injury caused to employees or the public, and official investigations into your company's affairs. Included as standard with professional indemnity insurance, directors and officers insurance, cyber and data risks insurance and legal representation and employment disputes insurance.

Cyber response helpline

If you're the victim of a targeted cyber attack, our cyber response helpline provides access to specialist solicitors and information security experts who will give expert legal and technical IT security guidance on the issues arising from cyber and data protection risks. Included as standard with cyber and data risks insurance.

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Last updated: 19/10/2020 | Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes

Home Insurance and Working from Home

As we adjust to the ‘new normal’ amidst the global coronavirus pandemic, and the reality of working from home for the foreseeable future for many of us sets in, changing our habits and adjusting our finances to this is important.  One thing that may be affected by this is your home insurance.

As your home becomes a workplace, there may be things that are no longer covered by your policy.  In this guide we will look at what working from home means for your home insurance, and whether you need to make changes to it to make sure that your belongings and equipment are safe.

In This Guide:

Does working from home affect home insurance, how does the coronavirus pandemic affect my home insurance, working from home insurance – how do i make sure that i am covered, insurance for employees working from home, what if my work requires visitors to my home, professional indemnity insurance.

Under normal circumstances, working from home certainly does affect your home insurance policy.  A typical home contents insurance policy would cover many of the belongings in your home, such as your furniture, appliances, clothing, jewellery and decorations will be covered against theft and damage, but professional equipment may not be.

Some insurers provide cover of up to £5,000 for home office equipment, but you should check your policy to see if this is included. However, specialist equipment that you may use for work, such as cameras or music studio equipment, will usually require a separate insurance policy.

With social distancing measures meaning unprecedented numbers of people working from home rather than the office, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) released a statement saying that the majority of home insurance policies will not be affected by working from home.

They say that you “do not need to contact your insurer to update your documents or extend your cover”.

However, as lockdown eases and some offices begin to reopen, the ABI say that: “If you are able to return to work, but are choosing to work from home more often, then you may need to inform your insurer that your pattern of work has changed”.  

So, if you are unsure of whether you will be covered, the best way of finding out is to contact your insurer directly to find out.

If you are planning on working from home for the foreseeable future, and have equipment that you will need covered (such as a work computer), a good way to ensure that you are covered by insurance is to take out an “all-risks” policy, which specifically covers business equiment.

An “all-risk” policy usually also covers your items when they are taken outside of your home, and would protect, for example, items in your bag that may be stolen while you are out.

The best way to find the best home insurance deals is to use our  home insurance comparison tool.  All you have to do is fill in some details regarding what you would like covered, and you will be able to compare prices, excesses and how much you can get covered from different providers all in one place.

If you run a business which is a registered limited company and have employees, even if they are working from home you should make sure that you have employer’s liability insurance. This ensures that if any of your employees sue you for any injuries or illnesses that they may get from working for your company, your costs will be insured.

It is also a legal requirement to have employer’s liability insurance of up to £5 million.

If you require visitors to come to your home for your business, and if they sustain any injuries as a result of doing so, your home contents insurance will not cover any claim made against you and your business.

For this you will need to take out a public liability insurance policy, which will protect you if your business is deemed responsible for causing injury or damaging the property of a client.

Another form of insurance that you may wish to consider depending on the type of business that you run, is professional indemnity insurance.  This protects your business from any claims that may be made where your business is found to have caused lost earnings to someone due to any mistakes that you have made.

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An Employer’s Guide to Homeworking Policy

The years 202o and 2021 saw a dramatic increase in homeworking due to COVID – 19. Homeworking is a valuable tool for the employer and also employees.

This is an effective home working guide for employers. 

What is Homeworking?

Homeworking is a form of flexible working policy that involves the use of technology to enable employees/home workers to work away from the employer’s office. In this system, employees can either be mobile, based at home, or work from home occasionally. Homeworking has benefits to the employers but it requires policies and procedures to run smoothly and that is what this guide is about.  

Types of Homeworking

Occasional homeworking.

This type of homeworking is frequent and is done on an ad-hoc basis. This can happen when there is a specific task the employee needs to do that requires concentration without regular office interruptions. This can also occur in cases of illness or adverse weather conditions. To authorize such a request the needs of the company has to be considered.

Regular Homeworking

Regular homeworking is an agreement where the employee or home worker spends more than fifty percent of their contracted time working from home. The regular homeworker is to meet certain targets that have been agreed upon with the employer. To become a regular homeworker the employee has to put in a formal request to the employer. This formal response has to be reviewed and carefully considered by the employer or HR.

Permanent Homeworking

For this type of work, the employee spends a hundred percent of their time working from home. This also includes employees that permanently visit sites from their home base. This should be included in the employee contract. This kind of contract works best where the employee has an autonomous job. A formal request has to be filed before a permanent homeworking contract can be granted.

Benefits of Having Homeworkers for the Employer

Homeworking increases productivity.

Working from home helps the homeworker to avoid the possible distractions that can occur in the office. This improves output and increases productivity. It can also improve the quality of work of homeworkers who value working from home as their work-life balance is improved. This can also lead to a greater commitment from homeworkers.

Homeworking Reduces Overhead

Having homeworkers can reduce overhead costs. If employees work from home, less office space will be used. This will, in turn, lead to a reduction in rent, utility bill and business rates. Also, if the business is expanding and needs more space it may be cost-effective to have where possible some employees work from home in order to create more space.

Homeworking for More Diverse Workforces

Having a flexible system where employees can work from home means that the firm will be able to capture a diverse group of employees. Disabled people for example or a mother will be able to get involved. This means that your firm is open to more ideas and talents. Each individual has their unique way of doing things and this may help the company grow.

Improvement in Company Reputation

Having a reputation for flexibility might be a plus and be attractive to talented employees. Having this reputation may also help attract more customers to your firm as well as stakeholders. There are benefits to being seen as a flexible firm and it may help with word-of-mouth advertisement.

Flexibility 

Having a rigid system means that you are restricted to a particular region and territory. But with a flexible system, you do not have to consider geography as you can employ bright minds in a completely different country or continent. The flexibility of home working also helps you retain current employees. If for example, an employee has to move they can continue working for the company.

Reduced Carbon Emissions

Employees having to show up at work every day means that they contribute daily to pollution in society. Allowing some employees to work from home may be a way of showing that you care about the environment by reducing the number of pollution employees cause daily through commuting.

Some Possible Pitfalls of Homeworking

It is important to know the possible things to consider so you watch out for them and deal with them properly.

Separating home life from work life may be hard for the homeworker

The homeworker may easily let their work-life take over their home life and this can begin to affect their wellbeing. It may be necessary to produce a working guide for the employee or give regular breaks. It is also important to regularly check on the homeworkers.

Homeworker management 

For homeworking to function effectively there has to be proper management in place. This is more demanding than it would have been in an office building. There has to be greater trust between the homeworker and management. Also, effective communication tools should be set up for easy communication between the homeworker and the manager.

Homeworking costs

There may be some initial cost for setting up homeworking. This might include the cost of setting up communication tools, video calls but this initial cost will eventually even out with the cost saved from overheads due to reduced staff in the office. So, the savings may be greater in the long run for the company.

Access to employee representatives

Even though employees are working from home they still need to be able to communicate with their representatives i.e. trade union. As an employer, you should take reasonable steps for this to happen. You can have a space in the office for employees to meet with their representatives for example.

Homeworkers as carers

When a homeworker is also a carer you have to ensure that they know work time should not be used for caring for dependents. You should inform them that they are to create alternative arrangements for their dependents to be looked after by someone else during work time. This should be arranged before the employee becomes a homeworker.

The Legal Issues Around Homeworking

Health and safety of the homeworker

The health and safety requirements apply to homeworkers; therefore, you owe your homeworkers a duty of care. As an employer, you have to conduct an appropriate risk assessment to ensure that the ventilation, lighting, chair, table, computer, or any other work essentials in the proposed workplace is suitable for the work needed to be done.  

This risk assessment must be carried out with the proposed homeworker’s task in mind. You are required to supply the employee with essential equipment. If there is any dysfunction to be rectified after the home assessment, it is the role of the employee to rectify this. It is also the role of the homeworker to keep the workplace safe after it has passed the risk assessment and they are required to inform you of any change in the workplace.

Handling an employee’s flexible working request

Employees with 26 weeks of service can request to work flexibly. You are not obligated to accept such a request but there has to be a reasonable reason for refusing it. You have to properly communicate and explain this reason to the employee. The law sets out eight possible reasons for refusal:

• It will place a burden of additional costs on the firm
• It will have a detrimental effect on the company’s ability to meet its customer’s demands
• The company is unable to reorganize work among its current employees
• The company is unable to take on new employees
• Homeworking will affect the quality of work produced
• It will affect the performance of the employee
• There is insufficient work during the employee’s proposed work period
• There are planned structural changes

Supervision and support of homeworkers

A homeworker is still subject to the same support and supervision given to an on-site worker. There should be regular daily appraisals with the supervisor. The supervisor should also be quick to pick up on signs of stress or difficulty and it should be dealt with immediately. The appraisal, reporting, and support system should be agreed on from the onset. There should also be enough opportunity for the homeworker’s work to be reviewed and a system in place to track the progress of the homeworker. If a homeworker complains that their health is being affected this should be raised immediately and the homeworker referred to appropriate care. As well as a risk assessment it may also be important to carry out a stress risk assessment and issues raised should be addressed.

Confidentiality and data security

Data security obligations do not change simply because an employee is now a homeworker. Regardless of the location, work is carried out by the employer and the employee is still; bound by GDPR and other data security laws. The homeworker must be reminded of this. It is also important to assess equipment provided to homeworkers during a risk assessment to see if they comply with data protection laws.

The tax status of an employee does not change simply because they are now a homeworker. The income tax and national insurance contribution should still be removed from the employee’s salary. It is important to inform your employees about the possible tax implications involved with homeworking. In the course of carrying out their job, the homeworker may need to purchase additional equipment. You can pay tax-free payments to employees to cover the additional cost involved with homeworking. 

Working time

Under the Working Time Regulations 1998, the time an employee spends commuting to work does not count as working time. However, for a homeworker, the time spent commuting to the employer’s premises counts as working time. It is important to agree on the working times with the homeworker from the onset. It should be agreed if it will be a strict working time or flexible. If it is flexible core hours should be agreed and if it is fixed then breaks should be agreed on. This will help you ensure your employees are not overworking. Whilst agreeing on the working time it is important to ensure that homeworkers do not exceed the 48-hour limit on their working week and remember the traveling time adds to this. The only exception is if they have opted out of the maximum hours’ limit.

Mortgage provider

There is some mortgage agreement that prohibits the use of the property for business purposes without consent. It is important to remind employees to check their lease and obtain consent from their mortgage provider to work from home where stated. The homeworker should also get confirmation of cover from their home insurer in case a piece of work equipment causes damage. It should also be agreed from the onset if you will cover the extra premium.

Is Homeworking the Right Choice for Your Organization? 

One effect of COVID-19 is the increase in homeworking. This type of flexibility has many benefits to the employer. It reduces cost, increases the quality and quantity of work, gives the company a good reputation, and gives the employer a wider range of choices. Before deciding to allow home working, it is important to consider the initial cost involved, if you can manage employees from home, how to give homeworkers access to their representative and how to handle a homeworker that is also a carer.

You should also be aware of the legal issues involved such as data security, health and safety of homeworkers, support of homeworkers, and basic things that should be agreed on from the outset. With the advancement of technology and the flexibility the 21 st century brings, homeworking is definitely something to consider and implement where appropriate.

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Our homeworkers insurance

Working from home means you can wave goodbye to the stress of the daily commute. But for complete peace of mind, you need to make sure your business is protected if the worst happens. The last thing you want is for your livelihood to be at risk.   You can buy our homeworker insurance from a broker. They’re the experts on the type of cover you need to protect your business, whether you’re going it alone or you’ve got a team of people working for you.

You can cover:

• Business interruption
• Employer’s liability
• Public and product liability
• Goods in transit
• Legal expenses
• Household contents
• Fidelity guarantee
• Personal accident

Need to know

You can only buy our homeworker insurance with a broker. They’re the experts when it comes to your business needs, so you’ll get the best cover at a price that’s right for you.

Find out more about buying through a broker

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Homeowners insurance is a type of insurance you’ll likely be required to get when you buy a house. While you may never have to use it, a homeowners policy can be an important source of financial support if something damages or destroys your house.

What is homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance is coverage you can buy to protect yourself financially against certain types of damage and lawsuits.

To get this coverage, you pay an insurance company a certain amount of money, called a premium. In return, the company will pay you if a covered event, such as a fire, damages your home or belongings. Homeowners insurance may also provide financial support if you injure someone else or damage their property.

Homeowners insurance has four main functions:

Pay to repair your house, landscaping and other structures.

Pay to repair or replace your personal belongings.

Pay for you to live elsewhere while your house is being repaired.

Cover claims and legal costs if you're found responsible for damage or injury to someone else.

» MORE: Homeowners insurance for first-time home buyers

Is homeowners insurance required?

Homeowners insurance isn’t required by law, but if you have a mortgage, your lender will likely require you to insure the home to protect its investment. Even if you don’t have a mortgage, home insurance is almost always a wise purchase. Because it gives you property and liability coverage, a homeowners policy is a financial safety net you may someday be glad to have.

» MORE: Home warranty vs. home insurance: What's the difference?

Homeowners insurance vs. mortgage insurance

Homeowners insurance isn’t the same as mortgage insurance , which you may have to buy if you put less than 20% down on your home loan. (Federal Housing Administration, or FHA, loans and other federal loans may also require mortgage insurance, regardless of your down payment amount.) If you default on your loan, mortgage insurance will reimburse your lender.

Mortgage insurance protects your lender, while homeowners insurance protects you.

» MORE: Buying homeowners insurance? Ask these questions first

What does home insurance cover?

A homeowners insurance policy is full of fine print about what’s covered and what’s not. One important thing to remember is that home insurance is designed to pay for sudden, accidental damage — not maintenance issues.

Say you wake up one morning and discover your water heater isn’t working. A standard homeowners policy won’t pay for a repair person to come out. But if a hailstorm leaves dents in your roof, your policy can probably help with those expenses.

Even some sudden accidents are excluded from your policy. For example, most homeowners insurance won’t pay for damage from earthquakes or flooding unless you buy extra coverage.

For a complete guide to what your policy will and won’t pay for, see What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Homeowners insurance definitions

The following definitions may help you better understand your homeowners insurance policy.

Standard coverage types

The following are the six main parts of a homeowners policy.

Dwelling coverage : Pays for damage to the structure of your house.

Other structures coverage : Pays for damage to unattached structures such as a shed or fence.

Personal property coverage : Pays for damage to your belongings, including furniture, clothing and electronics.

Loss of use coverage : Pays for hotels, meals and other extra expenses if you need to move out of your house while it’s being repaired.

Personal liability coverage : Pays for claims and legal costs if you're responsible for injuring someone else or damaging their property.

Medical payments coverage: Pays small medical bills if someone gets hurt on your property or your dog bites someone else, even if the injury wasn’t your fault.

Other important terms

Claim : A request for your insurance company to pay you under the terms of your policy. To file a claim, you’ll reach out to your insurer (online or by phone) and explain the extent of the damage. The insurer will evaluate your claim and pay or deny it, depending on your coverage.

Declarations page : Typically the first page of your homeowners policy. It displays important information such as your premium amount, your coverage limits and the address of the home that’s insured.

Deductible : The amount of a claim you’re responsible for. The insurance company will subtract this amount from your payout if you file a claim. The more damage you’re willing to pay for yourself, the lower your homeowners insurance premium will be.

Endorsement: An amendment that adds, changes or removes something in your homeowners policy. For instance, if you’ve paid extra for identity theft coverage , your insurer will add an endorsement to your policy to explain what’s covered.

Limit: The maximum amount your policy will pay for a given type of claim. Homeowners insurance policies generally have different limits for each type of coverage. For example, you may have a coverage limit of $300,000 for the structure of your home and $150,000 for your belongings.

See more key terms to know in your homeowners insurance policy .

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GEICO Homeowners insurance is a property insurance policy that provides coverage for your private residence. A homeowners policy typically covers losses and damages to a personal residence, as well as furnishings and certain other assets within your home. Home insurance may also offer liability coverage against certain types of accidents that occur within your home or on your property insurance protects against damage and loss to your private residence, including furniture and other assets within your home. Homeowners insurance may also provide liability coverage to help protect against claims for certain types of injury or property damage. Get a GEICO homeowners insurance quote online today then customize your coverage with innovative discounts, support from a local agent, and more.

Personalized Home Insurance Coverages

Customize your homeowners insurance with the coverages you need..

Why do you need homeowners insurance? Home insurance protects one of your most important investments and offers protection for you from accidents in your home or on your property.

Property Damage

Personal Property

Personal Liability

Medical Bills

Living Expenses

Property Damage coverage protects against damage to your home and many permanent structures on your property. This includes damage from fire, smoke , wind, falling trees, hail, and theft.

Personal Property coverage protects belongings that were damaged or stolen such as furniture, appliances, clothing, and electronics. Our Personal Property Insurance calculator can help you decide how much coverage fits your situation.

Personal Liability coverage protects against damage to others caused by you or members of your household, including most pets. This can include medical expenses or property damage.

It could also help with legal expenses in the case of a lawsuit. For example, a visitor slips in your kitchen and gets injured. Or your child accidentally throws a ball through a neighbor's window and breaks the TV.

This covers medical payments for minor injuries to people who don't live with you but get hurt on your property. For example, a visitor slips down your steps on a rainy day and gets injured.

Additional expenses could be covered for extra costs you might have to pay when experiencing a covered loss. For example, payment for a place to stay if your home suffers damage that makes it unlivable.

Buying, setting up, and servicing your homeowners policy is easy.

Get a quote.

We can help you tailor a policy to fit your needs and budget. Check out the links below for more information, then get your quick and easy home insurance quote online today!

• Home insurance coverages
• Personal Property Insurance calculator
• Multi-policy discount

Policy Service and Claims

After your policy is started, you can work with the GEICO Insurance Agency partner for help with:

• Bill payments
• Policy updates
• Reporting claims , and more

Homeowners Insurance Discounts and Savings

Save even more on a home insurance policy.

See how affordable a homeowners insurance quote can be through the GEICO Insurance Agency. Check out the discount options available to save even more on a home insurance policy.

Bundle of Savings

Get your car insurance and your homeowners insurance policy together from GEICO to receive a reduced rate on your vehicle insurance.

Home Security Systems

Alarm systems and cameras help protect your home and your wallet by giving you peace of mind and another discount opportunity.

Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers

Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers save lives and could save you money on your homeowners insurance.

Additional Coverages

Find insurance coverage for other types of property., renters insurance.

If you rent an apartment, condo, house, etc., you need renters insurance . Get a renters insurance quote today and we'll show you how easy and affordable it is to protect what you care about.

Condo Insurance

Your condo or co-op association's master policy covers the exterior structure, but not what's inside your unit. A condo insurance policy helps with an extra layer of protection. Get started with a quote today!

Mobile Home Insurance

A mobile or manufactured home policy provides coverage for your home, personal belongings, and structures on the land you own. Start your mobile or manufactured home insurance quote today!

Flood Insurance

Flood insurance is a separate policy with additional protection to a homeowners policy, protecting you from more severe types of water damage like heavy rain, melting snow, or severe coastal storms.

Landlord Insurance

Whether you own multiple rental properties or need to sublet your home for a year while you travel for business, we can help with Landlord Insurance .

Simplifying life at home

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• How To Create A Home Inventory

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You can reach a homeowners insurance sales agent at (800) 841-3005 . Our GEICO agents are uniquely prepared to explain your coverage options, assist in finding you the best deals, and ensure your family's full protection. If you have any questions about our homeowners insurance quotes or how to get insurance for home furnishings, contact us today.

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Homeowners Insurance: Get the answers you're looking for.

• Are there ways I can help protect my home? Preventive maintenance can save you a lot of time and money over the life of your home. This interactive guide can help you identify potential problems before they arise.
• How much homeowners insurance coverage do I need? First, start by knowing what is commonly included in a homeowners policy, then identify your wants and needs to ensure you are getting the coverage you desire. While certain coverages may not be able to be changed to ensure your home is properly protected, understating what is included and knowing what protections you want will help you make the right selections when purchasing a policy.
• What does homeowners insurance cover? You might need more homeowners insurance coverage and not even realize it. Here are some commonly overlooked areas that could be putting you and your family at more financial risk than necessary.
• Replacement cost If your home is destroyed in a fire, how much would it cost to rebuild it? The actual cost is the replacement value. This amount includes materials, labor, inflation, and availability of building materials. Estimated replacement cost is the difference from the current tax assessment or market value of your home. This cost accounts for the actual cost to rebuild your home.
• Location, location, location Risks like extreme weather, distance to a fire hydrant, and crime rate all can impact your premium. For example, you might pay more for waterfront property or if you're located in an area prone to flooding. The cost of construction varies by region, which is another factor that determines the cost of your homeowners policy.
• Age and condition of specific things like the age of the roof, building materials and renovation of home systems.
• Your deductible amount. The higher your deductible you select, the lower your premium
• Home safety devices like smoke detectors, burglar alarms and dead bolt locks can help you stay safe and lower the costs
• How can I prevent claims at my home? Clutter can take many shapes. Homeowners should be aware of potential risks, liabilities, and hazards before they occur. This will help to avoid future accidents .
• The inspection will be performed by a representative of your insurance company.
• You don't have to be present for the inspection.
• If an interior review is needed, the inspection company will schedule an appointment.
• The inspector will look at the exterior of your home to include your yard and roof.
• If the inspector needs to verify features impacting replacement cost, they may request to see the interior of your home.
• Once the inspection is complete the information will be reviewed to determine if it is necessary to make any changes to your policy to ensure that your home is adequately protected.
• If hazards are found in the inspection, the next steps will vary and may include requiring repairs or cancelling the policy.
• To learn more 5 Questions To Ask Your Home Inspector .
• Should I get an umbrella policy too? Umbrella insurance gives you extra protection from accidents and lawsuits. If you injure someone or damage their property, you might not have enough coverage. An umbrella policy could save you from paying out of your own pocket.
• Do I need flood insurance too? Do you think living far from the coast means your home is safe from flooding? The truth is floods can occur anywhere. Floods can occur outside of high-risk flood zones. Something else to consider, most homeowners insurance policies don't cover flood damage. You may want to consider flood insurance .
• Is there a GEICO Local Agent near me? We have many GEICO Local Agents across the country ready to help you with your insurance needs. Find a local agent near you .

Important Information: If you currently have an active flood insurance policy, please call us for the most accurate quote at (800) 566-1575 .

If you don't currently have an active flood policy, click "Continue" to get a quote online.

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Call (888) 395-1200 or log in to your current Homeowners , Renters , or Condo policy to review your policy and contact a customer service agent to discuss your jewelry insurance options.

Please note:

The above is meant as general information and as general policy descriptions to help you understand the different types of coverages. These descriptions do not refer to any specific contract of insurance and they do not modify any definitions, exclusions or any other provision expressly stated in any contracts of insurance. We encourage you to speak to your insurance representative and to read your policy contract to fully understand your coverages.

Homeowners coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, LLC. The information you provide will be shared with our business partners so that they can return a quote.

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How to Prevent Being Liable for Home Contractor Injuries

Posted by Purgula | Oct 8, 2023 | Insurance & Safety , Legal & Consumer Protection , Real Estate , Renovations | 0

As a homeowner, you take pride in your property and work hard to maintain it. However, accidents can happen, especially when hired contractors are working in your home or on your property. It’s important to understand the legal concept of premises liability and when homeowners can be held liable for worker injuries.

In this article, we cover the most common scenarios where homeowners may be held liable for worker injuries and how they can minimize their risk of liability. We also explain the interplay of homeowners insurance and worker injuries and provide a quick glossary to help you decipher legal terms. Whether you’re hiring home contractors or simply want to understand how to protect yourself and home from liability risks, this article is for you.

Table of Contents

What is premises liability, when homeowners may be liable for worker injuries, how homeowners can limit their liability when hiring workers, homeowner liability legal terms, how liability coverage and workers’ comp relate to each other.

• Frequently Asked Homeowner Liability Questions

Homeowner Liability Resources

Also see: Why You Should Never Lend Your Ladder to Your Contractor Home Renovation Contracts: Costly Mistakes to Avoid Best Online Legal Services for Homeowners & Property Owners More Homeownership & the Law Articles Related Topics: Legal Topics for Homeowners | Home Improvement Contracts | Home Safety

Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners accountable for injuries that occur on their premises. This means that if someone gets hurt while working on your property, you could be held liable for their injuries. As a homeowner, it’s crucial to understand that you can be held liable if you fail to maintain a safe environment.

Keep in mind that premises liability laws vary by state, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific laws in your local jurisdiction. If you are found responsible for an injury, you may be required to compensate the injured party for medical expenses and other damages. To navigate these complex laws, it’s advisable to seek legal advice from a premises liability lawyer who specializes in this legal practice.

Responsibility of the Homeowner Pertaining to Premises Liability

As a homeowner, it’s important to understand your role in premises liability. You have a duty of care to ensure that your property is safe for visitors. This means that you are responsible for maintaining your property and addressing any hazardous conditions that may arise. Taking reasonable steps to prevent accidents and injuries on your premises is crucial. If you are aware of a dangerous condition and fail to fix it or warn visitors , you may be held liable for any resulting injuries. To protect yourself, make sure you have adequate liability coverage in your homeowners insurance policy.

Homeowners may find themselves liable for worker injuries due to several common scenarios. One such scenario is when they hire contractors or subcontractors without proper insurance coverage. In such cases, if a worker gets hurt while working on the homeowner’s property, the homeowner may be held responsible for any resulting injuries.

Another scenario where homeowners may be held liable is if they fail to provide a safe working environment or neglect to warn workers of potential hazards. Homeowners have a duty of care to ensure that their property is free from dangers that could cause harm to workers.

Additionally, homeowners can be held liable for injuries caused by their own negligent actions (e.g. exercising control ) or failure to follow construction safety regulations. It is crucial for homeowners to prioritize the safety of workers on their property and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents.

Most Common Reasons Homeowners May be Liable for Workers Injuries

• Neglecting to do proper maintenance of your home and property
• Not providing a safe working environment
• Failing to warn workers of known hazards
• Providing defective equipment, tools or materials to workers
• Not delegating management of the project to a general contractor
• Inadequately supervising contractors
• Hiring a licensed independent contractor who does not have workers’ compensation insurance
• Hiring a licensed contractor that does not have adequate insurance coverage for your home and project
• Not following safe construction practices
• Incurring an injury that is the result of a dog-bite

Most Common Reasons Homeowners May Be Denied Coverage for a Worker’s Injury

• Hiring an unlicensed contractor
• Bypassing required permits in your local jursidiction
• Experiencing an incident that pertains to a home-based business

To protect themselves and minimize liability, homeowners should ensure that all workers have the necessary qualifications and experience to perform the job safely. Seeking legal advice from a personal injury lawyer can also help homeowners understand their rights and responsibilities in these situations.

Remember, homeowners’ liability for worker injuries can vary depending on state laws and specific circumstances. It is important to consult with legal professionals who specialize in premises liability and worker injuries to ensure the best interests of both homeowners and workers are protected.

Also see: Why You Should Never Lend Your Ladder to Your Contractor Homeowner Liability With DIY Projects

When hiring workers for a home project, it’s vital for homeowners to take certain steps to protect themselves and limit their liability. One of the first things homeowners should do is verify that the workers they hire are licensed and have proper insurance coverage, specifically general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance . Homeowners should always require proof of insurance and ensure that the coverage is current and sufficient to cover the value of their home.

Most homeowner insurance policies require that policyholders hire only licensed contractors for projects and repairs. Employing unlicensed contractors can void insurance coverage for the given work, and may even trigger the automatic cancellation of the policy due to non-compliance. Additionally, coverage for any future accidents that are a result non-licensed work will likely be denied.

In tandem with using unlicensed workers, homeowners also need to understand the repercussions of not pulling required permits in their local jurisdictions. Insurers view the act of bypassing required permits (knowingly or unknowingly) as negligence. This means that your insurance company will likely deny any future claims related to unpermitted work.

Communication is also key. Homeowners should clearly communicate their expectations and discuss any potential hazards with the workers before they begin the job. Additionally, homeowners may want to consider adding an indemnification clause to their home improvement contracts , which can help protect them from liability. Seeking legal advice can also be beneficial, as it can help homeowners draft contracts that clearly define responsibilities and minimize their risk of liability.

Homeowner Best Practices for Reducing Liability When Hiring Workers

• Only hire licensed, insured and bonded contractors
• Ensure contractors and subscontractors have their own workers’ compensation insurance
• Secure all required permits for your local jurisdiction
• Clearly communicate expectations and safety guidelines
• Disclose any dangerous conditions in writing
• Maintain a safe work environment and property
• Make sure the hired general contractor is in control of the project
• Avoid directing any workers to perform any specific tasks
• Do not lend any tools or equipment to workers, under any circumstances
• Regularly inspect the work area for newly introduced hazards
• Consult with an attorney to understand your rights and responsibilities

Also see: 9 Home Renovation Safety Tips 10 Conflicts of Interest Every Homeowner Should Know How to Avoid the Most Common Homeowner Scams

As a homeowner, it’s important to understand the legal terms related to premises liability and your responsibilities towards visitors and workers on your property. By familiarizing yourself with these homeownership-related legal terms , you can protect yourself and ensure the safety of those on your property.

Here are several legal terms related to homeowner liability and home improvement projects important to understand:

Attractive Nuisances

Comparative negligence, constructive notice, duty of care, exercised control, fault-based liability, liability coverage.

• Premises Liability

Privette Doctrine

Respondeat superior, strict liability.

Also see: Purgula’s Glossary for Innovative Homeowners What to Include in a Renovation Contract Home Renovation Contracts: Costly Mistakes to Avoid

The legal term Attractive Nuisances refers to potential hazards on a homeowner’s property that may attract children and pose a danger to them.

These can include swimming pools, trampolines, abandoned cars, and construction sites . Homeowners have a responsibility to take reasonable steps to prevent children from accessing these dangerous temptations, such as installing fences, covers and locks. Failure to do so may result in the homeowner being held liable for any injuries or accidents that occur on their property.

Comparative Negligence laws permit an injured person to recover damages in cases where more than one party is at fault. For example, if the injured party was partially responsible for their accident, but the property owner is mostly responsible, the injured person could still seek damages. However, in most instances, the injured person cannot seek damages if they were more than 50% responsible for the incident.

Constructive Notice is a legal doctrine that assumes you knew or should have known about a dangerous condition on your property, that can help you take appropriate action to prevent accidents and minimize your liability. This also relates to making workers on your site aware of any known hazards or likely hazards.

Duty of Care refers to the legal obligation of a property owner to ensure the safety of others by making a reasonable effort to keep their property well-kept and safe, while warning visitors of any known hazards.

The legal term Exercised Control is often used in the context of homeowners and home improvement projects. In this context, it refers to the level of control that a homeowner has over contractors or subcontractors working on their property. If the homeowner exercised control over the work being done, they may be held liable for any injuries or damages that occur during the project. This is why it’s important for homeowners to clearly define the scope of work in writing, while leaving the details of the work to the professionals they have hired.

Two actions within “Exercised Control” that will increase the risk of a homeowner being liable for a worker injury are:

• Actively giving instructions to contractors on how the work should be performed
• Giving advice regarding safety and injury protection that can be construed as taking responsibility for a contractor’s safety

Fault-based liability refers to the circumstance when a person is at fault due to some act (e.g. turning on the electricity that causes an injury), or failing to take action that would have prevented the incident (e.g. not removing a known hazard).

An Invitee , in the context of premises liability legal cases, is a person who has been invited onto someone’s property for a specific purpose. For a private residence, this can include friends, relatives, or neighbors, as well as service professionals, such as home contractors or food delivery vendors.

Property owners have a duty to ensure that their premises are safe for invitees and must take reasonable steps to prevent accidents and injuries from occurring. If an invitee is injured due to the property owner’s negligence, they may be able to file a lawsuit and seek compensation for their damages. is a person

Liability Coverage is an insurance policy that provides financial protection in case of accidents or injuries on your property, as well as elsewhere, such as a neighbor’s property.

Negligence implies that a property owner has failed to exercise reasonable care, which can result in injury or harm to others, making the owner potentially liable.

The Privette Doctrine is a legal principle originating in California that limits homeowner liability for injuries sustained by independent contractors or their employees while working on a project. Under this doctrine, the independent contractor assumes responsibility for the safety of its employees and is therefore held liable for any injuries that occur on the job.

An important exception to this rule is when the property owner exercises direct control over the work being done or when there is a non-delegable duty involved (e.g. not providing a safe environment). In other words, if a homeowner gets involved with a project, such as directly giving instructions, tools or equipment to workers, the homeowner can be liable for any subsequent injuries.

The Privette Doctrine has been adopted in many states across the US and has significant implications for both contractors and property owners in terms of risk management and insurance coverage.

Respondeat Superior is a legal term that holds employers liable for the actions of their employees. In the context of homeownership, this pertains to when a homeowner hires an independent contractor that meets the criteria of being an employee of the homeowner in certain states, such as California. Once this criteria is met, the homeowner is then obligated to provide a safe working environment, including providing workers’ comp coverage.

Strict Liability is the legal term used when a property owner is being held liable for an injury without being at fault. Homeowners can be strictly liable for injuries sustained by workers on their property, as well as visitors to their homes, who hurt themselves in a “no-fault” accidental fall, for example. Consult with a lawyer to understand potential liability and mitigate risks.

Standard homeowners insurance policies include liability coverage, which can provide protection for homeowners in the event of worker injuries. It is crucial for homeowners to carefully review their insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is not.

Homeowners should also make a point to notify their insurance company if they plan to hire workers or undertake any construction projects. Depending on the specific circumstances, homeowners may need to purchase additional coverage or endorsements to ensure they have adequate protection. Umbrella insurance, for example, is used to provide extra coverage and increased financial protection beyond existing limits of your existing homeowners policy.

Homeowners may also need to implement additional safety measures to ensure a “reasonably safe environment”, especially with major remodeling projects that may turn into attractive nuisances . Consulting with an insurance agent can be highly beneficial, as they can help homeowners navigate the complexities of homeowners insurance and the risk of worker injuries.

Also keep in mind that when hiring independent contractors that do not have workers’ compensation coverage, you run a higher risk of being accused of premises liability or exercised control, if the uncovered worker is injured on your project or property. Since they do not have a workers’ comp plan, they will likely turn to you and your homeowners plan for financial recourse.

Frequently Asked Homeowner Liability Questions

• Who is liable if a contractor is injured at your house?
• What types of damages could someone working on my property receive for an injury?
• How does personal liability coverage help when someone is injured on your property?
• What does homeowners liability insurance typically not cover?
• What is it called when an owner is liable for an injury to a person without being at fault?
• How can I avoid liability for injuries when hiring someone to work on my home?
• Can a homeowner be liable for the injury of a trespasser?

1. Who is liable if a contractor is injured at your house?

If a contractor is injured at your house, you may be held liable under certain circumstances. The extent of your control over the work and the safety of the worksite will determine your liability. It’s important to hire contractors with the necessary insurance coverage before starting any work, so you lessen the risk of being sued for a wrongful injury. Consulting with a legal professional can help you understand your liability and potential risks, as well.

2. What types of damages could someone working on my property receive for an injury?

If someone gets hurt while working on your property, they could receive damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The amount awarded depends on the severity of the injury and earning potential of the injured person.

3. How does personal liability coverage help when someone is injured on your property?

Personal liability coverage provides financial protection for homeowners if someone gets hurt on their property. It can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and legal fees, ensuring homeowners are not personally liable for these costs. Review your home insurance policy to ensure you have sufficient personal liability coverage.

4. What does homeowners liability insurance typically not cover?

While homeowners liability insurance provides coverage for a wide range of situations, there are certain incidents that it typically does not cover. These include intentional acts of harm, such as assault or vandalism, as well as injuries or damages resulting from business activities conducted on your property. Personal liability coverage for an injury to you or a family member who lives in the house would also not likely be covered.

Additionally, some policies may exclude coverage for certain dog breeds or exotic pets that are considered high-risk. It is important to carefully review your policy and discuss any coverage gaps with your insurance provider to ensure you have adequate protection.

5. What is it called when an owner is liable for an injury to a person without being at fault?

The legal term for a property owner being held liable for an injury or damage without being at fault is strict liability . An example of strict liability is being liable for your dog biting someone, even if your dog had no history of aggressive behavior or if the victim may have provoked the dog’s action. ( NOTE: Not all states have strict liability rules for dog bites, some have “ one-bite exemptions “).

Another example is a slip-and-fall accident that caused an injury to visitor on your property that was not your fault. In this instance, no-fault medical coverage (AKA Med Pay) can be used to cover routine medical bills (e.g. doctor’s visit; X-rays; physical therapy; etc.) of the injured party, at a significantly lower cap than liability coverage (typically less than $10,000 and often in the $1,000 to $5,000 range). Keep in mind that medical payments insurance will likely not cover an in-house tenant or activities pertaining to at-home business.

Also see: What Is Homeowners Medical Payments Coverage? Nolo Dog Owners’ Guide: Liability for Bites and Other Injuries

6. How can I avoid liability for injuries when hiring someone to work on my home?

To avoid liability for injuries when hiring someone to work on your home, follow these steps:

• Hire licensed and insured contractors with workers’ compensation coverage
• Obtain a written contract outlining responsibilities and liabilities
• Remove hazards or obstacles that could cause injury
• Confirm that your homeowner’s liability coverage is adequate for worker injuries and is on par with your home value and overall net worth

7. Can a homeowner be liable for the injury of a trespasser?

In general, a homeowner is not liable for the injury of an adult trespasser on their property. However, if the homeowner intentionally or recklessly causes harm to the trespasser, then they can be held responsible for any resulting injuries.

Additionally, if the homeowner knows about a dangerous condition on their property that could cause harm to trespassers and fails to take reasonable steps to address it, they may also be held liable for any resulting injuries. It is important for homeowners to be aware of their legal obligations and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of visitors on their property.

Child trespassers, however, receive greater legal protection because they are often naive to certain dangers, referred to as “ Attractive Nuisances “. Therefore, homeowners are more likely to be liable for injuries to juvenile trespassers, if their property is not responsibly maintained or secured.

• The Dangers of an Unlicensed Contractor from Every Angle
• Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Unpermitted Work?
• 10 Surprising Construction Injury Statistics 2023
• 37 Construction Safety Statistics for 2023
• Nolo Homeowners’ Insurance Guide: What You Need to Know to Be Fully Covered
• Nolo Dog Owners’ Guide: Liability for Bites and Other Injuries
• Real Life Examples of Contractors Needing General Liability Insurance

When it comes to worker injuries on your property, understanding your role as a homeowner is crucial. In certain cases, homeowners can be held liable for worker injuries under the legal concepts of premises liability and exercised control . However, there are many scenarios where homeowners will not be held responsible if they understand their responsibilities and know how to reduce their liability risks. Additionally, having adequate homeowners insurance can provide an invaluable extra layer of protection.

If you do find yourself in a situation where a worker is injured on your property, it’s important to consult with a well-qualified legal professional who can guide you through the process. Remember, taking proactive measures to ensure a safe working environment, while understanding the details of your homeowners policy and local laws, can go a long way in protecting yourself, your home and others.

Legal Disclaimer:   The information provided in this article and on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article and on this site are for general informational purposes only.

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The International Student Fee , implemented in 2009, allows the staff of International Services to provide a comprehensive package of services and activities to serve and support the growing population of international students at the University.

The International Student Orientation Fee was also implemented in 2009. International Services strives to provide new international students with the greatest assistance possible as they settle into their surroundings in Moscow. As such, attendance at the multi-day international student orientation is required for all new students. This orientation includes a complete immigration workshop, cultural activities, access and information to many important academic, social and health-related resources, and provides several meals and interaction with peers and current students.

Health Insurance

The University of Idaho requires international students to enroll in the University of Idaho Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP) .

• You are automatically charged for SHIP when you register for classes. You will see SHIP on your bill from the University of Idaho for each semester. You do not have to fill out any forms.
• If you have dependents, then you need to enroll them an independent medical insurance plan.
• Find out the cost of SHIP and details of coverage .

Please Note: You and your dependents are required to have health insurance the day you enter the U.S. To activate your SHIP insurance coverage prior to the first day of your enrollment, email [email protected] with your name, V#, and date of arrival in the U.S.

Alternative Health Insurance Requirements

J-1 students and dependents of students are required to have health insurance that meets or exceeds the U.S. Department of State requirements. Those requirements are as follows:

• Benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness
• A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness
• Co-payment amount not greater than 25% so that the insurance pays at least 75% of charges
• Accident and illness coverage (to include maternity insurance)
• Repatriation coverage (a type of life insurance whereby the deceased is returned to their home country)
• Medical evacuation coverage (If the student is too ill to attend school, this pays for the student to return to their home country.)

Authorized Exceptions to SHIP

• Foreign Embassy Sponsored Students: All embassy sponsored plans that have full medical coverage (pay full medical expenses incurred in the U.S.) are accepted as an authorized alternative plan to SHIP (Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia, Embassy of the State of Kuwait, Libya, etc.). A sponsor letter stating full medical benefits are paid for the student (and dependents), a copy of the insurance card, and page 1 of the insurance waiver form signed by the student must be submitted to International Services before a SHIP waiver will be processed.
• Engineering Outreach or other Outreach students (taking only Outreach courses) will automatically have a SHIP waiver because they will not be on the U of I campus. If your insurance was not waived, please email [email protected]
• Students at the Idaho State University/University of Idaho Center in Idaho Falls who are registered for classes at Idaho State University (must show Idaho State University registration and insurance) 
• Washington State University students taking concurrent classes at the University of Idaho are ineligible for SHIP at all times.
• H-1B or J-1 scholars taking courses at the University of Idaho must show their insurance cards to International Services for a SHIP waiver.
• Exchange students through another university that are on the University of Idaho Study Abroad Program and are out of the U.S. in another country will not be charged for SHIP insurance.