NEW! Faster Search Option

Loading
Home › Forums › Fine Woodworking Knots › Business

Morris chair sales & liability insurance

Slopdrop's picture

Morris chair sales & liability insurance (post #142471)

Slopdrop on Fri, 12/18/2009 - 16:21
in

Just curious if anyone has ever had a liability issue (sued) over any incidents involving a chair that was purchased from you, the builder. I am anticipating building and selling about 25 Morris chair & ottomans per year. I am also in Canada & will be selling here & in the U.S. The U.S.insurance company wouldn't even provide me with a quote. I am wondering if insurance may even be necessary. Any feedback much appreciated.

-A +A
RalphBarker's picture

I would think that product (post #142471, reply #1 of 2)

by RalphBarker in reply to Slopdrop [original] on Fri, 12/18/2009 - 16:57

I would think that product liability would be covered under your business umbrella policy, but I'm no insurance expert. You should talk to your regular insurance person.

Then, consider talking to a lawyer about potential product safety warning labels to go on the chairs. Something like: "Occupancy limit - 0.7 adults; Weight limit - 87 pounds". ;-)

Taigert's picture

Slopdrop, My insurance agent (post #142471, reply #2 of 2)

by Taigert in reply to Slopdrop [original] on Sat, 12/19/2009 - 14:22

Slopdrop,
My insurance agent and I sit down every year to see if anything has change in the scope of work I perform. We talk about areas of increased liability. The only thing he has said about my shop that would increase my liability is if I was to build furniture or other items to be used by children such as cribs or rocking horses and such. The other products they would need to know about if I was to start building things like gliders, items that can injure fingers and hands. Porch swings are even cause for a slight increase in rates.
As the other post stated talk to your insurance company, as well as a lawyer.

I am originally from Canada, from just outside Vancouver. The laws in Canada are far different when it comes to filing a lawsuit than they are in the US. It makes my head spin when I see what some people sue for. In the US anything goes. So you might want to find a lawyer who is familiar with the laws in the US as well as Canada.
I wish you luck with your venture.
Taigert