Question about liability/risk on hobby item to sell

[JoeP]

I have an idea for something that can help with a particular hobby I have, and I'm wondering if I expose myself to any risk by selling it online.

The plan is to provide a housing that someone can mount their pump inside, complete with holes pre-cut, and to provide all the components and instructions. The buyer would assemble it without worrying about buying all the parts.

My concern is over liability. A couple ideas:

1. I would assemble most of the electrical parts, and leave it up to the buyer to tie in just the pump.

2. I would assemble nothing, and leave it up to the buyer to follow the instructions. I could provide the wiring harness (wires terminated with spade connectors) that the buyer plugs into the correct places.

Of course, I would have very plain warnings to check over everything before plugging it in, and also have a disclaimer at the store and in the instructions explaining the dangers of working with electricity and to not attempt unless they are confident with electricity.

Any resources or advice before I undertake this? I was thinking of putting together a youtube to gauge interest as well. Thanks.

[bjl584]

Probably the smartest thing to do is to patent your idea before you take it to market. If it is successful and isn't copywrited, someone with a large manufacturing facility with the capacity to produce thousands of units will steal your idea and push you out of the market.

As far as dangers and liabilities, you will need to speak to an attorney. You may be advised to form a LLC or to Incorporate.