When Saving Money can Cost You

The Importance of Licensing and Insurance

A recent court ruling, Jones v. Sorenson, highlights the risk the homeowners take when hiring unlicensed professionals for work around the home. In this case, Danita Sorenson, found out the hard way, that she had become the employer of a tree trimmer who did work on her property. When he got injured, and without proper licensing and insurance, she became financially liable for his injuries.

“Miranda was required to hold a Class D-49 Tree Service Contractor’s license in order to contract with Sorenson to trim her trees, and because Miranda did not hold that license (or, for that matter, any contractor’s license), Sorenson automatically was deemed the employer of Jones under Labor Code Section 2750.5 and, therefore, liable for her injuries.”

This is just the latest case that shows the need for homeowners to require proper licensing and insurance when hiring professionals for work around the home, especially when potentially dangerous tools are in use. You may pay more for the service, yet in the event of an injury, that money would be well spent. You can read a bit more about this case HERE.