What Insurance Should a Tree Company Have?
Insurance for tree service providers in Atlanta, GA helps cover injuries, damages, stolen equipment, and lawsuits. Essentially, anything that can damage your bottom line is the reason arborists carry insurance. If you need routine trimming and pruning or are considering a full tree removal, ensuring the company you hire is insured and bonded is crucial for peace of mind. If a tree company does not have the proper insurance, it is a red flag you should not ignore. At Sesmas Tree Service, we prioritize your safety and well-being, ensuring every expert in our team is certified and protected by the proper insurance. Before signing off on any work, here’s what you should know about the insurance a tree company should have.
Common Insurance for Tree Services
While insurance policies vary, there are several categories for tree services based on your needs. If you have a tree care project planned, the service provider should have one of these insurance plans.
General Liability
The most common insurance for tree companies or landscaping businesses is general liability. This policy basically covers issues like property damage, injuries, and other types of liability. As the most basic form of insurance, it’s crucial to ensure that the tree care service has a current policy, which may be backed up by more detailed coverage.
Commercial Umbrella Liability
Insurance providers often recommend commercial umbrella liability as an "add-on" to general liability insurance. A reputable tree company may use this to provide extra coverage, boosting the existing liability policy. This type of policy often comes in handy during injury or legal issues, as it covers medical expenses and settlements if necessary. By adding this extra protection, tree services show their commitment to your safety and overall experience.
Commercial Property Insurance
As the name suggests, this type of insurance protects the physical business, as well as the tools, materials, vehicles, and equipment housed within. This is a good idea for businesses seeking protection against accidents such as flooding, fires, and theft, as well as natural disasters. However, commercial property insurance only covers damage to the physical property, so issues like stolen equipment off the truck may not be included in the coverage provided.
Commercial Auto Insurance
Vehicles that are used for tree services, whether it is transporting equipment or hauling trash following a tree removal, can be covered under this policy. Some of the vehicles commonly covered under these policies include service vans, trucks, and other utility vehicles. In the case of property damage or a collision, commercial auto insurance can protect you and the tree service provider.
Worker’s Compensation
A tree company that offers workers’ compensation to employees shows commitment to safety and creates a better working environment. In the event of injuries on the job, workers’ compensation can pay for the medical bills, lost wages, as well as treatment expenses. If the risk of injury is higher, either due to dangerous materials or equipment, ensuring the arborists have workers’ compensation is crucial.
Call a Professional Tree Service Provider
With all the different tree companies on the market, choosing the right one can make a big difference. Do not be shy to inquire about insurance coverage and other necessary documentation before signing off on any work. If a company is not forthcoming about their insurance policy and what it covers, steer clear, as it indicates they don’t have the protection needed to tackle tree projects.
Contact Sesmas Tree Service to book an appointment with our experts and learn more about insurance and how it can enhance your overall experience. We ensure compliance with local codes and regulations, providing peace of mind throughout the process.
