If I want to paint my neighbor’s house for $500, can I write a contract which says he will hire me at his own risk and can not sue me for any reason?
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If I want to paint my neighbor’s house for $500, can I write a contract which says he will hire me at his own risk and can not sue me for any reason?
I don’t want to be sued for any reason (like in the unlikely event that I somehow accidently damage his property while I am painting). I am not a business; I just need to make $500 for this 1 time (I happen to be an expert painter).
Asked on March 27, 2012 under Business Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
You can create a contract in which the neighbor will waive his ability to sue you for a poor quality job or for damage to his property done by "ordinary" negligence--normal carelessness. It is not generally possible to protect yourself from liability caused by your "gross negligence" (such as being reckless or more than normally careless) or by an intentional act.
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