Hiring a handyman makes life easier—but what happens if a handyman gets hurt on your property? It’s a question most homeowners don’t think about until something goes wrong. Whether you’re dealing with a minor plumbing fix or a larger renovation project, accidents can happen. And when they do, knowing who is responsible and what your legal obligations are can save you a major headache—and even thousands of dollars.
Let’s break it all down step by step so you feel confident and covered before your next home project begins.
Why This Topic Matters More Than You Think
Understanding your liability as a homeowner is crucial when hiring any contractor.
When someone gets injured while working on your property, you could potentially be held responsible for medical bills, lost wages, or even lawsuits. This risk depends on various factors like whether the handyman is insured, working independently, or part of a registered business.
That’s why it’s so important to ask the right questions and understand your rights before hiring help.
Independent Handyman vs. Company Employee: Know the Difference
Who the handyman works for changes everything.
If you’re hiring a handyman who is self-employed and doesn’t carry insurance, you might be personally liable for injuries that happen on your property. On the other hand, if the handyman works for a licensed company with liability and workers’ comp insurance, the company typically assumes the legal responsibility.
So before they even pick up a hammer, ask:
“Do you have liability and workers’ compensation insurance?”
This one question can make or break your level of risk.
What Liability Homeowners May Have
Yes, you can be held liable if a handyman gets injured on your property.
Let’s say the handyman trips on an uneven step or falls from a ladder while working on your gutters. If you hired someone uninsured, you might be responsible for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering damages
- Legal fees if a lawsuit is filed
These situations can spiral quickly, which is why understanding your homeowner’s insurance policy is just as critical.
Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Handyman Injuries?
It depends on your coverage—and the situation.
Some homeowner’s insurance policies may cover injuries that occur on your property, especially if negligence isn’t involved. However, these policies usually exclude on-the-job injuries for contractors unless specific riders or endorsements are added. If you’re not sure, take a few minutes to call your insurance company and ask.
Here’s what you should find out:
- Does my policy cover contractor injuries?
- Are there any exclusions related to hired workers?
- Can I add temporary coverage for this project?
Better safe than sorry.
Steps to Protect Yourself Before Hiring a Handyman
Being proactive protects you—and the person you hire.
Before any work starts, follow these steps:
1. Request Proof of Insurance
Ask the handyman for a Certificate of Insurance that includes liability and workers’ comp.
2. Get a Written Agreement
Clearly outline the scope of work, responsibilities, and insurance requirements in writing.
3. Do a Quick Safety Check
Fix obvious hazards like loose steps or exposed wires before the handyman begins work.
4. Choose Licensed Professionals
Hiring from reputable handyman services reduces your risk significantly.
What Happens Legally if an Injury Occurs?
The legal aftermath depends on the setup of your hire.
If your handyman has insurance, their policy will likely handle the incident. If they don’t, and your insurance doesn’t cover the accident, you may be personally sued. Courts will examine details like:
- Was the handyman negligent?
- Were you, the homeowner, negligent in maintaining safe conditions?
- Was there a written contract?
- What insurance coverage exists on both sides?
So, again, it comes down to preparation.
Real-World Scenario: Why It’s Smart to Hire the Right Help
Imagine this: You hired a “friend of a friend” to repair your deck. No contract, no proof of insurance. Halfway through the job, he trips over a tree root in your backyard, breaks his leg, and is out of work for three months.
If he sues and you lose, you could be on the hook for:
- Medical expenses = $15,000+
- Lost wages = $8,000+
- Pain and suffering = TBD in court
- Legal costs = Thousands more
Suddenly, your $400 handyman job turns into a $30,000 disaster.
Why Reputable Companies Like Eclipse Handyman Services Make a Difference
So here’s where trusted services like Eclipse Handyman Services come in.
When you hire from an established, professional company, you’re not just paying for someone to swing a hammer. You’re also investing in peace of mind. Eclipse provides fully insured technicians who are trained, experienced, and follow safe work practices. That means if something ever did go wrong, they’re equipped to handle it—without dragging you into legal trouble.
Plus, they’re transparent about their policies, which makes your job as a homeowner much easier.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Leave It to Luck
The question “What happens if a handyman gets hurt on your property?” might sound hypothetical—but the consequences are very real.
That’s why it’s essential to ask the right questions, understand your insurance coverage, and always hire responsibly. A few simple steps can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress. And if you’re ever unsure, it’s smarter to go with a reputable service provider like Eclipse, who takes all the guesswork out of the equation.
Remember: planning ahead isn’t just smart—it’s the most responsible thing you can do for yourself and anyone you hire.
