Landscaping Insurance: Coverage That Keeps You Growing Strong
Mr. Hoots digs into the coverage landscapers need to stay protected when the job gets muddy.
Hoo’s there? Mr. Hoots here, your wise, work-boot-wearing owl with dirt under his talons and insurance wisdom on his mind. Landscaping isn’t just about making lawns look sharp, it’s about running a business that’s exposed to equipment theft, property damage, and a whole lot of moving parts (literally). Let’s prune the confusion and plant the right protection for your business.
What kinds of risks do landscapers face?
- Property damage – a rock kicked up by a mower hits a window.
- Injuries – slips, sprains, or equipment accidents.
- Vehicle incidents – hauling trailers, mowers, and trimmers every day.
- Tool & equipment theft – mowers and blowers disappear faster than fresh sod.
- Client disputes – “you ruined my lawn” can turn into a liability claim overnight.
Core coverage every landscaper should carry
- General Liability (GL) – covers damage to customer property or injuries caused by your work.
- Inland Marine / Equipment Coverage – protects mowers, trimmers, blowers, and other tools while in use or transport.
- Workers’ Comp – covers employees for job-related injuries.
- Commercial Auto – covers your trucks, trailers, and attached gear.
Common claims in the landscaping world
- Broken windows from flying rocks or debris
- Damaged irrigation systems from digging or trenching
- Injured employees from heavy lifting or equipment misuse
- Trailer accidents while hauling gear between jobs
- Stolen mowers or trimmers left overnight or unsecured
Even the most careful crew can’t avoid every accident, but with solid coverage, those hiccups won’t uproot your business.
Contract requirements you’ll see often
Commercial properties, HOAs, and municipalities love paperwork, so expect to provide:
- Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing the client as “Additional Insured”
- Proof of Workers’ Comp and Auto coverage
- Waiver of Subrogation (for higher-end contracts)
- Minimum liability limits – often $1M–$2M for large commercial sites
Keeping your documentation current makes you the pro every property manager wants to hire.
Coverage mistakes to avoid
- Not covering your trailer – it’s usually not included in your auto policy.
- Skipping Workers’ Comp – even one part-time helper can trigger a state requirement.
- Forgetting about snow removal – if you plow in winter, it needs to be listed or you might not be covered.
- Underreporting equipment value – your mower fleet is worth more than you think, and replacement costs add up fast.
Quick safety wins (that also help your rate)
- Conduct daily equipment checks (belts, blades, fuel lines).
- Always use ear and eye protection.
- Secure trailers with locks and hitch pins.
- Train crews on lifting and heat safety during summer months.
Mr. Hoots’ Bottom Line
Landscaping is all about growth—but you can’t grow a business if a single accident wipes out your profits. Solid insurance keeps you cutting grass, not corners. So keep your coverage as sharp as your blades, and remember: