Home Improvement Contractor - Licensed Contractors

What are the drawbacks of hiring a highly recommended roofing contractor who does not have liability insurance?

This contractor comes with good references (our neighbors for one), and has offered to do our roof for a good price. However, he warned us that he does not have liability insurance. What does this mean? If a shingle falls on a passer-by, we could be liable and not the roofer? Or does it not cover damage done to our roof by the contractor? Does anyone have any advice/experience with this?

Public Comments

1. ahhh this is hard one take a look on his history find oothers that have used him if he does not have bad history its a go
2. if he or his helpers fall off the roof and break their necks it is your fault and you will pay and pay and pay.you will be liable for anything and everything, not him.
3. If he or any one of his helpers gets hurt on your property while doing your roof, they could sue you for damages. Now you say, " they would never sue us". Well did you know that these guys wives could also sue you for their injuries. It sounds far fetched but do you realize if one of these guys would get a serious injury and not be able to work anymore - there situation would be desperate and that's when you find out they are going to sue you. As a General Contractor, I pay workmen's compensation to cover myself and all our workforce - so I don't think much of anyone who does not carry the coverage. These guys are cheap for many reasons - not thinking about their customers possible liability is just one reason they are cheap. Now you decide how much of a risk you want to take for the money.
4. i would not hire this contractor, could end up costing you more money in the long run
5. You know the old saying S...t happens. Good references are important but the contractor should be licensed as well as bonded & insured to cover accidental injuries as well as property damage. He may offer a workmanship guarantee but the manufacturers warranty will not be honored if he is not an approved contractor. Good of him to let you know he's not insured but he's asking you to make a crapshoot. See he can get temporary insurance to cover all liabilities while he is on your job. Would not accept a flat price for the work. Ask for a line item contract w/ all materials , labor,protection of house & surrounding area ,cleanup/ debris removal , contingencies ...all spelled out. Not saying he will not do a good job , but if he balks at or cannot provide a contract, would look elsewhere. Best regards
6. if he doesn't have liability insurance and he or one of his employees gets hurt while working at your house, they will end up owning your house. say good-bye to this guy.