Key Takeaways

• Landscaping businesses face unique risks that require specialized insurance protection.
• General liability, commercial auto, and workers’ comp are the foundation of a solid coverage plan.
• Tool and equipment coverage ensures your most valuable assets are protected in transit or on-site.
• Partnering with a local insurance advisor can help tailor coverage to your business’s size, location, and services.

Running a landscaping business comes with plenty of rewards, but also real risks. From equipment damage to employee injuries to customer property claims, one accident can put your hard-earned business in jeopardy. That’s why carrying the right insurance coverage is essential for landscaping professionals.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your risk management strategy, here are the must-have insurance policies every landscaping business should consider.

1. General Liability Insurance

General liability insurance protects your business from third-party claims involving bodily injury, property damage, or personal injury. If a customer trips over a hose on their lawn or your crew accidentally damages a fence, this policy helps cover legal fees, medical expenses, and repair costs.

Make sure your policy includes coverage for completed operations, so you’re still protected even after the job is done.

2. Commercial Auto Insurance

If you use trucks, trailers, or vans to transport workers and equipment, personal auto insurance won’t cut it. Commercial auto insurance covers accidents, theft, or damage involving your business vehicles.

Coverage for both owned and leased vehicles, and protection for tools or machinery transported in the vehicle.

3. Workers’ Compensation Insurance

In most states, workers’ comp is required by law if you have employees. It covers medical expenses and lost wages if a team member is injured on the job, such as from a mower accident or a fall while trimming trees.

Ensure coverage is compliant with your state’s laws and includes return-to-work support.

4. Equipment and Tools Coverage

Your tools and machines—mowers, blowers, trimmers, mobile equipment, and more—are the backbone of your business. This coverage helps replace or repair damaged or stolen equipment, whether it’s stored at your facility or in transit.

Consider an inland marine policy, which is designed to protect tools and equipment on the move or at job sites.

5. Commercial Property Insurance

If you operate out of a physical location, such as a garage, office, or storage facility, commercial property insurance protects your buildings and contents from fire, theft, vandalism, and certain weather events.

Make sure the coverage limits reflect the replacement value of your property, not just the market value.

6. Umbrella Insurance

Sometimes accidents exceed the limits of your primary policies. Commercial umbrella insurance provides additional liability protection when claims surpass your general liability, auto, or other policy limits.

This is a relatively affordable way to significantly boost your protection, especially if you take on large commercial landscaping jobs or high-profile clients.

Bonus: Cyber Liability Insurance

If your landscaping business stores client information, schedules, or payment data digitally, a cyber policy can protect against data breaches, hacking, and digital fraud—risks that small businesses are increasingly facing.

Final Thoughts

Landscaping is a hands-on, high-risk industry, and insurance is your first line of defense. At NorthEast Insurance Services, we help landscaping professionals build insurance plans tailored to their business needs and budget. Whether you’re a solo operator or manage a growing crew, we’ll help you stay protected so you can focus on growing your business.

Need help finding the right insurance for your landscaping company?

Contact NorthEast Insurance Services today for a personalized consultation and competitive quotes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need insurance if I’m a solo landscaper with no employees?

Yes. Even solo operators should carry general liability and equipment coverage to protect against property damage, injuries, or tool theft.

2. How much does landscaping business insurance cost?

Costs vary based on factors like business size, services offered, location, and number of employees. On average, small landscaping businesses can expect to pay a few hundred to a few thousand dollars annually, depending on their coverage needs.

3. Is my personal vehicle covered if I use it for landscaping jobs?

No. Personal auto insurance typically won’t cover accidents or liability if your vehicle is being used for business purposes. A commercial auto policy is necessary for proper protection.