Have/Get something done – When do we use it?

1. We use the structure ‘have something done’ to talk about something we arrange (and usually pay for) for someone else to do for us. It emphasizes the process rather than who is doing it.

• I’m having a house built at the moment. (this means I paid someone to do it for me)
• Compare: I’m building a house at the moment. (this means I’m doing it myself)
  
  

2. When something unpleasant or unexpected happens to someone. Someone is affected by something they did not cause.

• Paul had his new car stolen last Sunday.
• I had my arm broken playing volleyball.