General Liability Insurance for Landscaping Contractors Explained
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
Landscaping contractors face daily risks—from property damage to client injuries and unexpected accidents. That’s why general liability insurance (GLI) is one of the most important policies for landscaping businesses. This guide explains what general liability covers, why it’s essential, and how contractors can get a tailored quote from Wexford Insurance.
What Is General Liability Insurance?
General liability insurance protects your business from financial loss if someone claims that your work or operations caused:
Bodily injury to a client or third party
Property damage on a job site
Advertising or personal injury, such as libel or slander
For landscaping contractors, GLI is crucial because work often takes place on client property, involves heavy equipment, and carries the risk of accidental damage.
Why Landscaping Contractors Need General Liability Insurance
Without GLI, a single accident could cost thousands—or even tens of thousands—of dollars. Examples include:
A tree branch falls and damages a client’s fence
An employee accidentally sprays a neighbor’s property with fertilizer
A customer slips and falls on a wet lawn you recently treated
Having GLI ensures that legal fees, settlements, or medical costs do not come directly out of your business pocket.
What Does General Liability Insurance Cover?
For landscaping contractors, standard general liability policies typically cover:
Bodily injury – Medical expenses and legal defense for third-party injuries on your job site
Property damage – Repair or replacement costs for accidental damage caused during landscaping work
Legal defense costs – Attorney fees and court costs if a claim is filed against your business
Advertising and personal injury – Protection against claims arising from your marketing or misrepresentation
It does not typically cover employee injuries (covered under workers’ compensation) or damage to your own equipment (covered under tools/equipment insurance).
How to Get General Liability Insurance as a Landscaping Contractor
Assess your business risks: Consider services offered, equipment value, and job site conditions
Determine coverage limits: Typical limits range from $500,000 to $2 million per occurrence
Document safety protocols: Training programs, safety equipment, and job site practices help reduce premiums
Work with an experienced broker: Wexford Insurance specializes in contractor coverage and can help you get a fast, personalized quote