Whether or not professional services are provided for a fee or on a complimentary basis, the professional liability risks are the same. Professional liability insurance coverage is also the same, even though no premium is calculated on the value of the free services provided. The general rule is that a professional performing voluntary services must do so in accordance with the same care and diligence as other professionals providing similar services. The lack of a fee for services does not reduce the obligation to use due care.

Use this resource guide from Victor to consider:

• Instituting and enforcing clear policies
• Scope of insurance coverage for individual actions
• Contractual release and indemnification language
• Proposed indemnification language for design professionals providing voluntary services