Best Tree Service Business Insurance

Each provider has standout features that give it a competitive advantage. Use the table to see how each carrier performed:

• Businesses that issue certificates often: If you maintain trees for property managers or subcontract on larger landscaping jobs, clients may ask for proof of insurance before work starts. ERGO NEXT lets you create and share COIs online at no extra cost.
• Owners who prefer to manage insurance online: ERGO NEXT lets you add insured parties, change coverage details, download documents and send COIs through its website or app. This matches your preferences if you’d rather handle everyday updates yourself.
• Tree service contractors with straightforward coverage needs: You may only need policies such as general liability, workers’ compensation and tools coverage if you usually handle pruning, stump grinding or smaller removals. ERGO NEXT has all of these in its coverage portfolio.

• Tree services with specialized operations: Crane-assisted removals, pesticide applications and utility line clearance need underwriting or coverage options ERGO NEXT doesn't have. The Hartford would be a better fit because it has broader coverage options.
• Businesses that prefer one carrier for all major policies: If you prefer to deal with a single insurance provider but only want to deal with one provider, ERGO NEXT might not be a good match since its commercial auto is arranged through a partner. Progressive Commercial or The Hartford might be better matches.
• Owners who value hands-on guidance: ERGO NEXT works best as a self-service option. If you want an agent to walk through exclusions, explain changes or stay closely involved during a claim, consider The Hartford instead.

• Solo contractors who need coverage only for certain jobs: Thimble offers general liability by the job, month or year, which can work well when you do seasonal work or only take on occasional projects.
• Tree service contractors who prune higher than 30 feet: According to Thimble’s appetite guide, aerial work that takes place more than 30 feet above ground falls outside its eligible tree service activities.
• Owners who need proof of insurance quickly: You can buy coverage online and generate certificates without waiting on an agent, which helps when a property manager or commercial client requires a COI before you can begin pruning or stump grinding.

• Tree service businesses with modest equipment values: Thimble’s tools and equipment coverage protects portable tools, but its $5,000 cap could be limiting. If you use more expensive equipment like a stump grinder or wood chipper, the The Hartford could be a good alternative.
• Tree removal businesses that need a broader insurance package: Thimble’s offering centers on liability and limited equipment coverage. Companies with employees, commercial vehicles, costly machinery or larger contract requirements might find The Hartford a better fit since it has workers’ compensation, commercial auto, higher equipment limits and umbrella coverage.

• Tree service businesses with high-value machinery: The Hartford’s contractors’ equipment coverage insures scheduled machinery, with limits up to $6 million through its Quick Quote program. That makes it a stronger fit if you take on jobs that require the use of costly chippers, stump grinders, aerial lifts or cranes.
• Businesses with complex coverage needs: With the broadest menu of coverage options among the insurers in our study, The Hartford's in a better position to support companies with several crews, a shop or yard, expensive machinery and larger contracts.
• Owners who want help when a claim gets complicated: If you want a provider that provides strong support during claims, The Hartfod is a good match. Its dedicated claims teams makes sure someone explains what'll happen next after the filing of a claim.
• Businesses that want help preventing repeat losses: The Hartford has a risk-engineering team that reviews job-site practices, equipment use and worker safety. That support can help you spot problems before they lead turn into claims.

• Owners who want to buy coverage entirely online: You can't complete your purchase online with The Hartford because some policies require speaking to an agent or partner provider. ERGO NEXT could be a better fit if you want a faster, mostly self-service process.
• Small operators focused on keeping costs down: If you're watching your margins, The Hartford is the best provider to get savings. If you want lower average rates and have straightforward insurance needs ERGO NEXT is a good alternative.