Anyone you hire to help around your house, such as the neighbor kid who mows your lawn, a babysitter, a contractor or other outside services, opens you up to potential legal headaches. If anyone performing work on your property is injured, you may be financially liable for the person’s injuries and disabilities.

“Many homeowners assume that their homeowners insurance policy will protect them if someone is injured on their property,” says Cindy Steinbach, Mayville Insurance Agency. “That is not necessarily true. Contractors such as builders or landscapers should be covered through their own workers’ compensation policy. However, if they do not have coverage, you would be held liable. That’s why it’s important to thoroughly check out any contractor you have work on your property.”

“Some homeowners policies may provide limited coverage for minors that mow the lawn and even domestic workers like maids or nannies. If yours does not, it might be a good idea to purchase an umbrella liability policy to supplement your homeowners insurance. Discuss your policy and your needs with your professional independent agent to determine whether or not you are adequately covered.”