Insurance isn’t unimportant. It’s the firewall between you and a six-figure mistake.
Why Bother?
- One accident can bankrupt a small crew.
- Clients demand proof before they sign.
- Workers’ comp is the law in most states.
- Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Get exactly what you need, what it covers, and how much to budget.
Insurance Policies You Can’t Skip
| Policy | What It Covers | Why It Matters |
| General Liability | Property damage & bodily injury you cause on the job | First line of defense against lawsuits and repair bills. |
| Commercial Auto | Accidents or theft involving trucks/trailers | Your rig stays on the road and earning. |
| Workers’ Comp | Medical bills & lost wages for injured employees | Mandatory in most states; protects you and your crew. |
| Equipment / Inland Marine | Tools and machines in transit or on-site | Replacing stolen gear out of pocket hurts. |
| Umbrella | Extra limits are stacked on other policies | Handles the “headline” claims that blow past standard limits. |
Pros, Cons, and Real Numbers
Pros: shields cash flow, wins bigger jobs, keeps you compliant, covers gear loss.
Cons: premiums sting at start-up, exclusions exist, shopping takes time, rates jump after claims.
- Cost: Full coverage runs $3k–$6k/yr for most operators.
- Workers’ claims in this industry often top $10k.
- 80 % of landscapers carry general liability; 65 % of clients prefer insured vendors.
According to industry stats, 25% of small businesses could shut down after a single uninsured accident. Don’t be that 1 in 4.
How Much Coverage Is Enough?
Start with general liability and commercial auto. Scale up as:
- Employee count grows
- You add riskier services (hardscaping, chemical spraying)
- Equipment value climbs
- State law demands it (e.g., workers’ comp)
The Cost of Going Bare
Skip insurance and you’re on the hook for:
- Out-of-pocket repairs or medical bills
- Lawsuits and fines
- Lost contracts when prospects ask for proof
- Possible bankruptcy after one major claim
Here’s what you need to do:
- Get quotes from at least three carriers that specialize in green-industry risks.
- Read the exclusions—no surprises later.
- Review limits yearly; add coverage as your fleet, team, and revenue grow.
- Mention “fully insured” in every bid to close deals faster.
Want this list on hand as an easy reference copy you can share with your team?
Download the cheat sheet PDF here!
This article is informational only. Talk to a licensed insurance pro for advice on your exact situation.
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