6 Common Types Of Waiver And Release To Know (2026)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- Waiver and release forms protect businesses or individuals from liability
- They are often signed before potentially dangerous activities
- These forms generally don’t cover gross negligence or intentional acts
When someone signs a waiver and release agreement, they’re giving up their right to sue or otherwise recover damages. These forms are fairly commonplace; you might sign one when joining a gym, renting a kayak or participating in a potentially dangerous activity.
These forms are usually tailored to specific risks and activities. If you’re offering such a service or activity, it’s important to understand the common types of waiver and release forms and how using the correct one protects your interests.
Understanding Waivers vs. Releases
Many people don’t realize that the words “waiver” and “release” mean slightly different things. A waiver involves surrendering a right to sue before an activity. On the other hand, release is an agreement not to pursue a claim or to stop pursuing one.
Businesses and organizations often combine both into a single “waiver and release” form to better protect themselves.
Types of Waiver and Release Agreements and How to Create Them
These are some common waiver and release forms:
General Release of Liability
This is a broad-spectrum contract where one party agrees not to sue the other for damages. Usually, signing the release is a requirement to participate in a potentially hazardous activity, like horseback riding or skydiving. You can create a general release of liability in just a few minutes.
Activity Waiver and Release
This type of waiver and release is geared toward a specific, organized activity. If you oversee a sports league or youth program, you might decide to create an activity waiver and release.
Mutual Release of Liability
In many waiver and release forms, one party agrees not to sue the other. But what if both parties have potential legal claims? When you create and sign a mutual release of liability, two different parties agree not to sue one another over a specific disagreement or dispute.
Photo Release Form
This form is narrower in scope than many other options. If you’re an event photographer and want to use participants’ photos in ad campaigns or other projects, you should create a photo release form that allows you to use the images.
Lien Waiver
Until a property owner pays for the work done, a contractor has the right to place a lien on a given property. Once payment has been received, the contractor issues a lien waiver giving up this right. Creating a comprehensive lien waiver online may help protect your business from unnecessary losses.
Deed of Reconveyance
Once a borrower has completely paid off a mortgage, their lender will create a deed of reconveyance. This is a new property deed showing that the title is free and clear. It releases any claim the lender had on the property.
Why the Right Form Matters
There are several types of waiver and release agreements, and if you want to protect yourself and your business, choosing the right one is essential. Don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer if you have questions.
Release & Waiver Forms
Create enforceable releases of liability, activity waivers, lien waivers, photo releases, and deeds of reconveyance. State-compliant legal forms for all 50 states.
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