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Free liability waiver template (Word)

Reviewed by Clausery editors · · 3 min read

A release of liability signed by a participant (or parent/guardian) acknowledging the risks of an activity and waiving the right to sue the organiser for ordinary negligence.

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A liability waiver (or release of liability, assumption of risk, hold-harmless) is signed before an activity (fitness class, event, rental, tour, sport) by the participant. It acknowledges the risks and agrees not to hold the organiser liable for injury or damage from ordinary negligence.

Waivers do not protect you from gross negligence, recklessness, intentional misconduct or certain statutory claims — and their enforceability varies significantly by state and activity. Have an attorney review your waiver, especially for high-risk activities or minors.

What to include#

  • Organiser and participant. Business/organiser name and contact; participant name, address, phone and email; emergency contact.
  • Activity and risks. Description of the activity and the inherent risks involved (be specific — e.g. falling, collision, equipment failure, drowning).
  • Assumption of risk. Statement that the participant understands and voluntarily assumes the risks.
  • Release of liability. Participant waives, releases and discharges the organiser from claims arising from ordinary negligence, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
  • Other clauses. Indemnification, medical consent (authorising emergency treatment), governing law, severability, photo release if applicable, and parent/guardian signature for minors.

How to fill it in#

  1. Step 1: Identify the real risks

    List the specific risks of your activity — generic 'all risks' language is weaker than specific risks.

  2. Step 2: Make it conspicuous

    Use clear language, bold the release/assumption sections, and do not bury the waiver in small print.

  3. Step 3: Separate from registration

    Have participants sign the waiver as a standalone document (or clearly marked section) before the activity begins.

  4. Step 4: Get it signed in advance

    Have the participant sign (or parent/guardian for minors) before they start the activity — never after an injury.

  5. Step 5: Keep signed copies

    File signed waivers securely (digital or paper) for at least the statute-of-limitations period (often 2-3 years for injury claims).

Hold harmless agreement

Indemnity clause between businesses/contractors.

General release

Settlement release after a dispute or incident.

Photo release form

Image/likeness release often bundled with activity waivers.

Event planning contract

Event-client contract that usually references attendee waivers.

Free contract templates

Full contract template library.

Questions

Are liability waivers enforceable?

For ordinary negligence, in most states yes if written clearly and signed knowingly; they do not cover gross negligence or intentional harm.

Can a parent waive a minor's claims?

Many states will not enforce a parent pre-injury waiver against a minor injury claim, though some allow it; consult local counsel.

Do I need one for every activity?

Use one for any activity with physical risk (sports, fitness, outdoor activities, equipment rentals, events).

Does it replace insurance?

No — waivers are one layer; carry appropriate general liability/professional insurance.

Do digital signatures work?

Yes, as long as the signer is clearly identified and the waiver language is presented conspicuously before signature.

Browse all templates →

These are general templates, not legal or tax advice. Have anything unusual reviewed for your jurisdiction.

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