plete insurance portfolio that protects your workers, clients, vehicles, and company reputation.
Your coverage should include:
• Workers’ Compensation Insur- ance – Required in most states, it covers injuries on the job — including truck accidents and machine use. • General Liability Insurance – Covers third-party property damage or injuries, such as a tree falling on a house. • Commercial Auto Insurance – Required for company vehicles and essential to protect your crews and assets on the road. • Umbrella Insurance – Provides additional protection in case your other policy limits are exceeded during a claim. INVEST IN SAFETY: IT PAYS OFF Insurance is all about managing risk. The safer your business appears, the lower your premiums will be — and the more likely you will be approved for coverage. Rook noted that insurance rates, es- pecially for workers’ compensation, have decreased in recent years due to widespread improvements in industry safety. “Rates have come down quite a bit with workers’ comp in the tree care indus- try,” he said. “Mostly due to mechaniza- tion and just safety measures that have really taken hold.” But the diligence doesn’t stop at the worksite. Rook cautioned that a major blind spot for tree care insurance is when the crew is on the road. “Another important point many peo- ple overlook is that if an employee is driving a company vehicle and gets into an accident that results in an in- jury, that incident falls under workers’ compensation,” Rook explained. “Busi- ness owners often do not think of driv-
Mechanization in the tree care industry has helped lower workers’ comp rates.
“People that are starting businesses, it’s not easy,” Rook said. “But if you have good work experience… if you have a resume that shows you worked for several companies, and you’re re- sponsible… you’re a certified arborist… a member of ISA… those are all going to have a positive impact.” If your only experience is two years with one company and no profession- al involvement or certifications, many insurers may see you as a higher risk. On the other hand, a well-rounded work history — from ground worker to climber to site supervisor — paired with active industry involvement, demon- strates readiness and professionalism.
Highlight:
• TCIA, ISA Certified Arborist, or CTSP credentials • Tree care organization membership • Attendance at trade shows and in- dustry expos (e.g., ArborEXPO™ ) • Experience across multiple compa- nies and roles in the field SECURE COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE Do not let budget constraints tempt you into skipping critical policies. Instead, work with your agent to build a com-
60 | Spring 2025 ArborTIMES ™
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