I'm currently looking in to starting a side business cleaning specialty items for other people and have a question about my liability.

If I were to create a contract of sorts that says (in less crude terms, of course) that shit happens and if the item breaks due to flaws, weaknesses, or manufacturing defects, I'm not responsible - what's the likelihood that holds up if the items are damaged in the cleaning process? These specific items are typically made of glass, crystal, or porcelain/ceramic and therefore are very fragile, and can be very expensive, making my attempt at a little extra money a moot point if I get stuck with damages. I also really don't think this is the kind of thing you can get insurance for, but I am researching that as well.

I would also inspect the item and take pictures of any known damage/flaws along the way to document, and use as a "Bill of health" on return to the owner. Because of the nature of the items, it's possible any damage wouldn't be uncovered until the item is being cleaned, so I wouldn't want to be accused of causing the damage during my cleaning process.

Thanks for any and all advice!