Insurance for tree service businesses helps cover damage, injuries, lawsuits, and stolen equipment — the things that can damage your bottom line. This guide shows exactly what kind of insurance you need, how much it costs, and how to get proof of coverage fast.
Disclaimer: Some services mentioned (including certain types of removals and stump work) may not be included in the current coverage through Insurance Canopy. We’re working to expand coverage, so keep an eye out for updates. Until then, make sure to check your policy before starting riskier work.
What Is Tree Service Insurance (& Who Needs It)?
Tree service insurance is a business insurance designed to cover the specific risks tree care professionals face. This includes damage to client property, third-party injuries, and equipment theft or accidents.
With the right coverage, your business is protected, whether you’re pruning branches, removing stumps, or operating a bucket truck. It helps shield your bottom line from repair costs, claims, and potential tree service lawsuits.
Does My Tree Service Business Need Insurance?
Yes. Even if you run a small (or solo) operation, insurance for tree services helps protect against major financial exposure. A single mishap could lead to thousands in damages, and without coverage, you’d be paying out of pocket.
In many states, workers compensation is legally required if you have employees, and operating without it can lead to hefty fines or business shutdowns. Clients also commonly ask for proof of insurance before awarding a contract.
How Much Does Insurance for Tree Services Cost?
Insurance for tree services starts at $31 per month with Insurance Canopy, or you can save up to 12% by paying annually. It’s a small price to pay compared to the thousands of dollars you could face in repair bills, medical claims, or legal fees if an accident happens.
Your final cost depends on a few things, like the size of your business, the number of employees, and the types of services you offer. Get a quote in minutes to determine your exact price and coverage options!
How to Get Tree Service Insurance
Getting insured is simpler than most business owners think. You’ll start by filling out an online form, providing basic details about your services, the number of employees, and the equipment used.
Once you submit your information, a provider calculates your risk and offers a policy that fits your needs. Many businesses can get covered online in minutes.
Tree Service Insurance Requirements
Each state has its rules, but most tree care businesses must carry general liability, workers compensation, and commercial auto insurance. These aren’t optional for many operations — they’re part of doing business legally and safely.
Meeting tree service insurance requirements isn’t just about staying compliant with state laws. It also shows clients and property managers you’re serious, reliable, and prepared. Having the proper coverage in place gives you access to larger contracts and helps you operate with confidence on every job.
Minimum Coverage Limits
Most clients and contracts require at least $1 million in general liability coverage. This ensures enough financial protection if something goes wrong on-site.
Higher-risk projects — like emergency removals or large-scale tree felling — might require larger limits.
OSHA and Worker Safety Compliance
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) sets safety standards for the tree care industry. Insurance providers may check for OSHA compliance before issuing coverage.
Maintaining safety certifications and proper training doesn’t just keep your crew safe — it also helps lower your insurance risk.
What Types of Tree Service Insurance Coverage Do I Need?
Tree work involves high-risk activities, from using sharp tools and climbing tall trees to hauling heavy equipment and driving from site to site. The right insurance protects your business financially and helps you meet legal and client requirements.
Here’s a breakdown of the most essential policies for tree service pros:
| Coverage Type | What It Covers | When You Need It |
|---|---|---|
|
General liability insurance |
Third-party bodily injury and property damage |
If you work on client property or near structures, fences, or vehicles |
|
Workers compensation |
Employee injuries, medical bills, and lost wages |
If you have employees (required in most states) |
|
Trailer and equipment insurance |
Theft or damage to mobile tools and machinery |
If you haul gear to job sites or store tools in trucks or trailers |
|
Commercial auto insurance |
Collisions, damage, and injuries involving work vehicles |
If you use trucks, dump trailers, or chipper haulers for business |
|
Cyber liability insurance |
Data breaches, hacks, and recovery costs |
If you accept digital payments or use online booking systems |
|
Additional insureds |
Extends liability coverage to a third party |
If a contractor or property manager requires it in a contract |
|
Commercial property insurance |
Damage to tools or buildings at a fixed location |
If you store equipment at a business yard or facility |
|
Professional liability insurance |
Mistakes in risk assessments or service recommendations |
If you offer inspections or professional evaluations |
|
Business interruption insurance |
Lost income and ongoing costs during covered shutdowns |
If your business depends on a facility or large equipment |
General Liability Insurance for Tree Services
General liability insurance for tree service covers third-party injuries and property damage — two of the most common risks in the industry. Whether you’re trimming a tree near a customer’s home or grinding stumps near walkways, accidents can happen in seconds.
Example: If a falling limb breaks a client’s fence or someone trips over your ropes, this policy helps cover the repair costs, medical bills, or even legal expenses.
Tip: Always carry this if you operate around private property, utility lines, or public walkways. Many residential and commercial customers require proof of insurance before hiring a contractor.
Workers Compensation
Workers compensation helps cover medical costs and lost wages if your employees get hurt on the job. Tree care is among the most hazardous professions in the U.S., with a fatality rate of 110 per 100,000 workers, significantly higher than the national average. Additionally, the nonfatal injury rate stands at 239 per 10,000 workers, nearly triple the rate across all industries.
Example: A ground crew member strains their back lifting logs, or a climber suffers heatstroke while working in the summer. This policy ensures they get the care they need while protecting your business from costly lawsuits or state penalties.
Trailer and Equipment Insurance
Your tools are your livelihood, and replacing them out of pocket can be devastating. Trailer and equipment insurance helps cover the cost of stolen, damaged, or vandalized gear when it’s in transit or stored in a vehicle.
Example: If your trailer is broken into overnight and someone steals your chainsaws, climbing gear, or rigging kits, this policy helps you replace them quickly.
Commercial Auto Insurance
If you drive a truck, chipper, or trailer for work, your personal auto insurance likely doesn’t cover business use. Commercial auto insurance is designed to protect you, your vehicles, and your crew when accidents happen on the job.
Example: Your driver rear-ends a car on the way to a job site. This policy helps cover repair costs, injuries, and legal fees tied to work-related driving incidents.
Cyber Liability Insurance
Even tree care companies face cyber threats, especially when using scheduling apps, taking online payments, or storing client data. Cyber liability insurance helps you bounce back from hacks, data breaches, and ransomware attacks.
Example: If your customer database gets hacked or your booking software goes offline due to malware, this policy helps cover the cost of recovery, client notifications, and legal assistance.
Note: Even small businesses are targets, especially those with digital footprints but no IT department.
Additional Insureds
Some jobs (especially commercial contracts) require you to list another party on your policy. Adding an additional insured extends your liability coverage to someone like a property manager or homeowner’s association (HOA).
Example: If a property manager hires you for a subdivision project and something goes wrong, having them listed as an additional insured protects both of you.
Commercial Property Insurance
If you store your gear at a business location like a garage, office, or storage yard, commercial property insurance protects those physical assets. It covers events like fires, theft, vandalism, and severe weather.
Example: A windstorm damages your shop’s roof and floods your storage area, ruining chainsaws, climbing ropes, and uniforms. This coverage helps replace damaged items and repair your building so you can return to business quickly.
Professional Liability Insurance
Also known as errors and omissions (E&O), professional liability insurance protects you when a client claims you gave bad advice or made a costly mistake. It’s crucial if your work involves inspections or expert recommendations.
Example: You assess a tree and recommend keeping it, but it falls and damages the client’s car a month later. If they blame your evaluation, this policy helps cover your defense and any resulting settlements.
Business Interruption Insurance
When a major event forces your business to close temporarily, business interruption insurance helps cover lost income and ongoing expenses like rent, utilities, and payroll. It’s typically bundled with commercial property insurance.
Example: A fire destroys your equipment yard, leaving you unable to take on jobs for several weeks. This policy helps keep your business afloat while you recover and rebuild.
Common Questions About Tree Services Insurance
Does tree service insurance cover storm or emergency work?
Not all standard plans include storm or emergency response work, especially if it’s higher risk. If you handle emergency calls, make sure your insurer knows. Otherwise, you could be denied coverage when it matters most.
Should I still get insurance if I’m a solo tree service operator?
Yes, you can get coverage as a one-person operation. At a minimum, general liability protects you if something goes wrong on a job.
Am I covered while working high up in trees?
No. If your work involves climbing, bucket trucks, or rigging, you must tell your insurer upfront and ensure high-elevation work is included in your policy. If you don’t, your claim could be denied.
How fast can I get proof of insurance?
With Insurance Canopy, you can download your proof of insurance immediately after you purchase a policy. Your Certificate of Insurance (COI) is available in your online dashboard 24/7. You can print, email, or download it anytime you need it for a client or contract.
What is the process for filing a tree service insurance claim?
You can file a claim directly from your dashboard. Just log in and fill out the claims form with the incident details. Once submitted, a claims adjuster will contact you to review the situation, request any supporting documents, and guide you through the next steps.
Trim Risk With Tree Service Insurance!
Protect your tree service business, your crew, and your reputation with tailored insurance that fits the way you work. Get a free quote today and take the first step toward safer, smarter operations.
