An independent contractor is a person engaged by another to render a particular service
i.e. there is a contract for services between the parties.
• He is his own master and exercises his discretion in accordance with the terms of the contract with the employer.
• He is generally liable for torts committed by his servants and agents. However, in certain circumstances the employer is liable for such torts, for example.
• If the employer retains control or interferes with the discharge of the obligation.
• If the independent contractors obligation amounts to a tort.
• If the tort in question is one of strict liability e.g. rule in Rylands V. Fletcher.
• If the ordinary discharge of the independent contractors obligation amounts to the commission of a tort.
• If the independent contractor negligently discharges a duty imposed upon the employer by law.
