Can an independent contractor use tools and materials provided by the property owner?

The assertion that independent contractors must provide their own tools is grounded in the nature of the contractor's relationship to the property owner. Independent contractors are generally characterized by their autonomy in how they execute their tasks, which includes the responsibility to provide their own equipment and materials necessary to perform their work. This distinction highlights the independence of the contractor from the property owner and reinforces their business status.

In many contractual relationships, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the expectations are that independent contractors supply their own tools. This independence encompasses both the scope of work and the resources required for the completion of their tasks. If the contract does allow for the use of the property owner's tools and materials, it would need to be clearly defined within the agreement to avoid any confusion about the nature of the contractor's responsibilities.

Thus, the right perspective is that independent contractors typically provide their own tools, which is a fundamental characteristic of the relationship they have with clients or property owners.