Legal Question in Construction Law in North Carolina

Re: subcontracting

Hmm. That raises a bunch of questions. First, as a general matter, you would not be liable for their acts of negligence. They are independent contractors, and hence you would generally not be "vicariously" liable for their actions (or inactions). Second, if you were liable to third parties (i.e. not you and not the contractors), you could not contract with these contractors to avoid that liability. If, however, you were held liable for their conduct, you should have a common law indemnity claim. Further, you can enter an agreement with them requiring them to indemnify you; this is generally valid if it states that it applies only where you are not negligent. As to whether they can release you for potential claims by them against you (e.g. falling in a hole on your property), that's a little more unclear, but it would probably be enforceable. You should consult your lawyer.