Legal Definitions - Save harmless

A save harmless clause, also known as a hold harmless clause, is a part of a contract where one party agrees not to hold the other party responsible if the other party causes harm to the first party while performing the contract. This means that the first party gives up their right to sue the other party for any harm caused during the contract.

For example, let's say that a person named A hires a contractor named B to fix their roof. A and B sign a contract that includes a save harmless clause. If B accidentally drops a tool on A's car and damages it while working on the roof, A cannot sue B for the damage because of the save harmless clause in the contract.

Another example could be a landlord and tenant agreement. If the tenant agrees to a save harmless clause, they cannot sue the landlord for any injuries or damages that occur on the property due to the landlord's negligence.

These examples illustrate how a save harmless clause can protect one party from being sued by the other party if harm occurs during the contract. It is important to carefully read and understand any save harmless clauses in a contract before signing it.