Contractors visit homes and businesses all the time in order to make repairs to electrical systems, plumbing and other sophisticated and vital systems. And while you definitely need to have a contractor come in and do these things to keep your home and/or business safe and functional, you should be aware that there is a certain amount of exposure that you are risking when you have these repairs done.
Unexpected Exposure
The system that your contractor is fixing is not protected by your insurance policy while the contractor is working on it. It’s covered before the contractor begins, and after they finish, but not during the repair process. What does that mean? Well, if repair or maintenance on something causes damage, then the damage to the equipment or system being fixed is not covered. If the damage extends to the physical building, whether it be your house or business, the damage extending past the actual item under repair will be covered. However, if the system being repaired is damaged and the cause of the damage is unrelated to the work, it is covered.
Contractor Negligence
Of course, this doesn’t leave you completely exposed. If your contractor is negligent and this negligence results in damage to your plumbing, electrical or other vital system under repair, then his or her liability coverage should be responsible for damages.
This is just another reason that it makes sense to take your time and do your research when hiring a contractor. Look for one who is properly licensed and who has liability insurance, but don’t forget to go beyond that. Get customer referrals and look at the contractor’s business history. Find one who is an expert at what he or she does and you will lessen the opportunity for mishap. You can also check online consumer sites such as Angie’s List or the Better Business Bureau to make sure that your potential contractor hasn’t been the subject of complaints by other customers.
In addition, make sure their workspace is safe and clear of debris that could cause (or worsen) an accident. Sometimes, an ounce of prevention prevents the need for a cure.
Before you hire a contractor, contact us at All About Insurance for advice on your Dallas Business Insurance today.
Also Read: Builders Risk Insurance for Business Expansion