What insurance should a tree service have?
A tree service should be able to show current general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage before removal, climbing, rigging, crane work, or large pruning. For specialized work, ask whether cranes, lifts, subcontractors, and line-clearance conditions are covered.
Do not rely on a verbal 'we are insured.' Ask for a certificate of insurance sent by the insurer or agent, and make sure the business name matches the company doing the work.
Coverage to ask about
General liability
Required proofHow to tellProperty damage risk from falling limbs, logs, equipment, or rigging failure
The fixCertificate of insurance with active dates and adequate limits
Workers' compensation
Required proofHow to tellCrew members climb, cut, chip, haul, or operate equipment on your property
The fixCoverage for worker injuries; not just owner-only exemption
Crane or lift work
Extra verificationHow to tellQuote includes crane, bucket truck, lift, or subcontracted operator
The fixConfirm equipment and subcontractor insurance
Line-clearance work
Utility firstHow to tellBranches near electrical lines or service drop
The fixUtility coordination and qualified coverage if applicable
Low bid with no paperwork
Risk flagHow to tellCash discount, no written scope, no certificate, or vague company name
The fixPause and verify before letting work start
How to verify before signing
- Ask for the certificate of insurance before paying a deposit.
- Confirm the insured business name matches the proposal and crew.
- Ask whether subcontractors are used and whether they carry separate coverage.
- For large removals, ask how nearby property will be protected and who pays if damage occurs.
Unlock the hiring checklist
Use this before you call a tree service, so you know what to ask and what to avoid.
Call a pro when…
- The job involves climbing, rigging, overhead chainsaw work, or heavy equipment
- The tree is near a structure, driveway, road, fence, neighbor property, or utility
- The company will not provide insurance documents
- The quote is much lower than others and excludes cleanup or risk details
- Crane, traffic control, permit, or utility coordination may be needed
Repair or replace?
Insurance does not decide whether a tree is pruned or removed, but it should affect who you hire. The more dangerous the work, the less acceptable it is to use an uninsured or underinsured crew.
Need a cleaner scope before you call around?
Use the tree service checklist to compare the same work, questions, cleanup, and warranty before choosing a local company.
Related questions
Is a business license enough?
No. A license or registration is not the same as liability insurance or workers' compensation.
Should I be listed as certificate holder?
For larger jobs, ask the insurer or agent to send a certificate directly and list you or the property as certificate holder if appropriate.
What if a worker gets hurt on my property?
Workers' compensation is one reason insurance matters. Ask for proof before work starts, especially for climbing or chainsaw work.