Protect Yourself - Only Use Comprehensively Insured Window Cleaners

Uninsured window cleaners may be very capable to perform the job, they may even have references from previous jobs - however they represent a very real financial and even criminal risk to you.

 

Your liability

Michael Tooma, a leading workplace health and safety lawyer and a partner with the law firm Norton Rose, states "The fact is that whilst performing work on your premises, your premise becomes a workplace. This means that you have a duty to the worker. In effect, if you are negligent in relation to the workman who is doing the work, you are in breach of your duty. That duty is a statutory duty that creates a criminal offence, attracting penalties of up to $300,000 and/or six years imprisonment."

 

In a current case before the courts in the UK, a homeowner is facing a six-figure compensation claim after a workman was injured falling from a ladder whilst attempting to fix a leaking garage roof. The worker blames the homeowner for the accident because there was a 'more safer' access point through a window, however the homeowner was concerned about the worker walking on their carpets, so asked them to use a ladder instead.

 

The worker suffered 'life changing' injuries and, being uninsured, is forced to seek compensation from the homeowner.

 

Your protection

Reputable business owners and trades people will cover themselves as well as your premise with comprehensive insurance cover, including public liability and some form of salary continuance/injury insurance. Without insurance a worker is faced with the prospect of not being able to work indefinitely....or seeking compensation from you to support their family.