Let’s break this down together — you’d be surprised how many businesses need landscaping insurance and don’t even realize it. I’ve been helping clients here at Illinois Insurance Center for years, and one thing I hear all the time is, “Wait, I didn’t think my business needed that kind of insurance.” Truth is, if your crew works with outdoor spaces, touches lawns, or even just operates a mower, you could be at risk.
Accidents happen fast. Whether it’s a cracked patio during a design install or a tripped wire while trimming trees, liability can hit hard. That’s why we want to walk you through three types of businesses that should never go without this kind of protection. Landscaping insurance isn’t just for big-name companies — it’s for small businesses in Aurora, Joliet, and everywhere in between.
Let’s look at the top types of businesses that need landscaping insurance and what kind of risks they face.
1. Why Landscape Designers and Architects Are One of the Top Businesses That Need Landscaping Insurance
If you’re drawing up blueprints or designing outdoor patios, there’s a good chance you’re considered part of the landscaping business. Many designers think they’re not “hands-on” enough to need insurance — but that’s not quite right.
Even if you subcontract the heavy work, you could still be liable if your design causes an accident or fails to meet safety standards.
✅ Risk of Property Damage: Large projects often include the use of concrete, retaining walls, water features, and more. A miscalculation in design could damage underground plumbing or weaken structures. That could lead to costly repairs, or worse — legal trouble.
✅ On-Site Injuries: Some designers visit job sites, oversee work, or manage third-party contractors. If someone trips over your equipment or a misplaced tool causes an injury, you could be held responsible.
✅ Client Disputes: Let’s say the client expected one look, but your design didn’t match their vision. If they sue for negligence or misrepresentation, that insurance helps cover legal costs.
At Illinois Insurance Center, we help landscape designers protect their work, their tools, and their name. Whether you work in Naperville or right here in Chicago, you need insurance that fits your setup. We even recommend checking out contractor insurance if you manage teams or sub out labor.
2. Lawn Care and Maintenance Teams Are Also Businesses That Need Landscaping Insurance
Now, if you’re in the mowing and lawn treatment business, listen up. You’re probably operating weekly or even daily in residential neighborhoods. That means a lot of interaction with people, pets, and property — all things that can lead to claims.
✅ Equipment Accidents: Lawnmowers, weed trimmers, and blowers can cause more damage than people think. A mower might throw a rock into a window. A trimmer could carve into a client’s sprinkler system.
✅ Injuries During Work: Your crew might be out in the heat, on slippery grass, or around tight corners. One wrong step, and someone could fall or get hurt. If they’re not covered, you’re footing that bill.
✅ Recurring Liability: Since lawn care is ongoing, one accident isn’t the only thing to worry about. Each visit carries new risk. What if chemicals you used for weed treatment damaged the lawn? What if you left a gate open and a dog escaped?
Lawn care companies in places like Aurora or Rockford often work on tight margins. You don’t want to risk your business over a simple mistake.
That’s where our team steps in. We’ll help you pick the right policy that protects you against repeat incidents and gives you peace of mind. If you drive company vehicles, don’t forget to check out our commercial auto insurance too — it’s a great add-on.
3. Tree Trimmers and Arborists Absolutely Fall Under Businesses That Need Landscaping Insurance
Tree work is no joke. I’ve seen how quickly things can go wrong — one wrong cut, and a branch lands on a car. Or worse, someone gets hurt. That’s why tree services and arborists are high on the list of businesses that need landscaping insurance.
✅ Working at Heights: Any time you send someone up a ladder or into a tree, there’s danger involved. A fall injury could lead to hospital bills and lost wages, which means your business could be on the hook.
✅ Heavy Equipment Risks: Using chainsaws, chippers, or cranes adds another layer of risk. If machinery fails or something falls unexpectedly, you could damage property or injure someone nearby.
✅ Environmental Hazards: Trimming around power lines or near buildings can be risky. You don’t want to find out after the fact that your team accidentally hit a power pole or cracked a driveway.
Arborists working in Chicago or Joliet are often called out for emergency work, especially after storms. That kind of work needs to be protected. Let us show you how to stay covered, no matter how high the job takes you.
What Does Landscaping Insurance Usually Cover?
If you’re still wondering what landscaping insurance actually includes, here’s a breakdown:
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✅ General Liability: Covers accidents like property damage or injury caused during work.
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✅ Tools and Equipment: Helps replace or repair tools that are stolen, damaged, or broken on the job.
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✅ Workers’ Compensation: Covers medical bills and lost wages if an employee gets hurt while working.
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✅ Commercial Auto Coverage: Protects your trucks and trailers while driving to and from job sites.
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✅ Property Damage: Covers damage you or your equipment cause while on the client’s property.
Don’t forget — we also offer business insurance packages that can group your coverages together to make managing your policy simple.
Why Choose Illinois Insurance Center for Landscaping Insurance?
Look, we’ve been helping small business owners like you across Illinois for over 45 years. Whether you live in Naperville or service multiple counties, we can write a policy that fits your needs without making things more complicated.
You don’t need to dig through a bunch of paperwork or wait on hold all day. Just give us a call at (708) 524-4900 or reach out through our contact page, and we’ll walk you through the whole process. We’ll explain everything in plain language and make sure you’re getting exactly what you need — nothing more, nothing less.
Also thinking about coverage for your home or personal vehicle? We can help with homeowners insurance and life insurance too — all under one roof.
FAQ: Businesses That Need Landscaping Insurance
1. What types of businesses fall under landscaping insurance?
Lawn care companies, landscape designers, architects, tree services, and even irrigation techs all count.
2. Is landscaping insurance required by law?
Not always, but many clients or cities may require it before work begins.
3. Can landscaping insurance cover stolen tools?
Yes, many policies cover stolen or damaged tools — especially if they’re used for work.
4. Does it cover damage caused by subcontractors?
That depends on your policy. Talk to us about adding coverage for subcontracted work.
5. What’s the difference between general liability and landscaping insurance?
Landscaping insurance often includes general liability, but it adds more specific protections tailored to your line of work.
6. Will my insurance cover injuries to my workers?
Only if you include workers’ comp. It’s smart to have if you’ve got a crew.
7. Can I get commercial auto with landscaping insurance?
Absolutely. You can bundle it in or add it separately with our commercial auto coverage.
8. How much does landscaping insurance cost?
It varies. Factors include the size of your business, the number of employees, and the type of work you do. Call us for a free quote.
9. What areas in Illinois do you cover?
We serve Rockford, Aurora, Chicago, and more.
10. How do I get started?
Call (708) 524-4900 or visit our contact page. We’ll walk you through everything.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, running a lawn care or landscaping business comes with risk. Even if you’re careful, accidents still happen. That’s why businesses that need landscaping insurance shouldn’t wait until a claim hits to get covered.
At Illinois Insurance Center, we’ve got your back — whether you’re trimming trees in Joliet or building patios in Naperville. Don’t gamble with your livelihood. Reach out today and let’s make sure your business has the protection it needs. Call us at (708) 524-4900 or use our contact form. We’ll keep things simple and help you move forward with confidence.
See Also:
- How Does Insurance Fit Into Your Financial Plan?
- Vital Information for an Accurate Landscaping Business Insurance Quote
- Protect What Matters: Understanding Renters Insurance with Illinois Insurance Center
- Types of Insurance Contractors Should Get
- Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping Insurance
