Foundation repair, no matter how straightforward it seems, is never risk-free. There’s always a risk of someone getting injured during the project. For this reason, it is important to ensure that the contractor you hire has workers’ compensation insurance before you sign anything. Why workers’ compensation insurance is important If you choose to do business with a contractor that does not carry workers compensation coverage, you will be exposing yourself to the risk of being held liable in case an accident occurs on your property during the project. In case an accident occurs on your property during the project and an employee of the contractor is injured, you could be sued for compensation to cover the medical bills of the injured party. Ensuring that the contractor you hire has adequate insurance coverage is your first line of defense against such claims. You can rest easy that you won’t be held liable for any accidents or injuries that may occur on your property while your foundation is being repaired. Confirming coverage Many people will tell you to ask the contractor if they carry the right insurance coverage. Don’t take their word for it. They are business people trying to make a profit. Some of them will tell you what you want to hear in order to close the deal. You should take this a step further and ask for copies of the certificate. Check to ensure that the insurance will still be valid while your foundation is being repaired. The insurance certificate will have the name of the insurance carrier, their contact information as well as the dates through which the insurance is valid. You may want to get in touch with the insurance carrier to verify the coverage. Is your contractor exempt? Some contractors may try to evade the insurance issue by telling you that they’re exempt. They therefore don’t have to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This is only true if the contractor has not employed anyone and is working on the job alone. This is almost impossible for a foundation repair contractor. Most jobs require at least two people. You should therefore be weary of a contractor that tells you they are exempt. Checking to determine that your contractor carries workers’ compensation insurance is an important step in the hiring process. It will help to protect you from the risk of a lawsuit.