Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) One Practice Exam

What duty is owed to a trespasser entering your property?

1. None, but you cannot cause intentional harm

2. To ensure a safe environment at all times

3. To warn of all known hazards

4. To invite them in for a purpose

The correct answer is: None, but you cannot cause intentional harm

The duty owed to a trespasser primarily revolves around the idea that property owners have limited obligations concerning trespassers. The correct answer articulates that while there is generally no formal duty to protect a trespasser, property owners cannot engage in intentional harm against them. This principle acknowledges that trespassers do not have the same rights as invitees or licensees, who are granted permission to be on the property. This limited duty does not extend to ensuring the property is free from all hazards or maintaining a safe environment at all times. While property owners are expected to avoid intentional harm, they are not required to take proactive measures to protect trespassers. Therefore, the significant aspect of this duty lies in the absence of liability for injuries that result from passive hazards, as long as there is no intention to cause harm.