Client, Customer & Third-Party Harassment

The customer is not always right. Employers can be held liable for sexual harassment by clients, customers, patients, guests, and vendors when they knew or should have known and failed to protect their staff. This guide covers the legal standard, the industries where it happens most, and what an adequate employer response requires.

Employers can be liable for sexual assault committed by clients, vendors, or customers when they knew or should have known of the risk and failed to act. This post explains the third-party harassment framework.

Employers in NY, FL, and NJ may still be liable when harassment comes from clients, customers, or VIPs—especially if they knew (or should have known) and failed to take reasonable steps to stop it. This article explains common scenarios, what employers should do, and how employees can document harassment and retaliation.