How To Start a Lawn Irrigation Business: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Aug 8
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 19
Starting a lawn irrigation business can be a profitable and rewarding venture, especially as demand for water-efficient landscaping continues to grow. Whether you're a solo contractor or planning to build a full-service team, understanding the steps to launch your business properly is key to long-term success.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping service-based businesses like lawn irrigation contractors get the right insurance coverage to protect their operations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to start a lawn irrigation business, what equipment you’ll need, and how to safeguard your investment with tailored insurance.
Step 1: Research Your Market and Services
Start by identifying your target customers—residential homeowners, commercial properties, or municipalities. Consider offering:
Sprinkler system installation
Drip irrigation setup
System maintenance and repairs
Seasonal startup and winterization services
Step 2: Get Licensed and Certified
Depending on your state, you may need:
A contractor’s license
Backflow prevention certification
EPA Water Sense training
Step 3: Purchase Essential Equipment
Start with the basics:
Pipe cutters and trenching tools
PVC and poly pipe supplies
Sprinkler heads and valves
Wire locators and multimeters
Service vehicle with storage
As your business grows, consider investing in a trenching machine or vibratory plow for faster installations.
Step 4: Protect Your Business with Insurance
Insurance is a critical part of your startup costs. At Wexford Insurance, we offer specialized irrigation contractor insurance that includes:
General Liability Insurance – Covers property damage and injury claims.
Commercial Auto Insurance – Protects vehicles used for transporting tools and materials.
Contractor’s Equipment Insurance – Covers theft or damage to your tools and machinery.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Required if you hire employees; covers job-related injuries.
Commercial Property Insurance - Protects your office, warehouse, or storage facility from risks like fire, theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage. This is especially important if you store irrigation equipment or maintain a physical business location.
Step 5: Market Your Services
Build a professional website, list your business on Google, and join local contractor directories. Offer seasonal promotions and referral incentives to attract new clients.
Keep Your Business Running Smoothly
Once you start marketing your lawn irrigation services, staying on top of client inquiries and scheduling becomes crucial. Contractor Back Office helps you stay organized and visible by managing your website, email, calendar, and social media—so you can focus on delivering great service and growing your business.
Final Thoughts
Starting a lawn irrigation business requires planning, investment, and protection. With the right equipment, licensing, and insurance, you’ll be ready to serve your community and grow a profitable business.
If you're ready to launch your irrigation business and need custom insurance coverage, reach out to Wexford Insurance today. We’ll help you get the protection you need to operate with confidence.
