What Irrigation Installers Must Know About Commercial Auto Insurance
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
For irrigation installers, vehicles are more than just transportation—they’re mobile offices and storage units for tools, pipes, valves, and irrigation equipment. That’s why commercial auto insurance is an essential part of any lawn irrigation business insurance plan. It protects your business from accidents, liability, and costly vehicle damage.
Why Commercial Auto Insurance Matters
Using personal auto insurance for business purposes can leave installers underinsured. Personal policies typically exclude coverage for vehicles used to transport tools, equipment, or multiple employees. Without commercial auto insurance, your business risks paying out-of-pocket for:
Vehicle accidents involving employees or third parties
Damage to client property caused by collisions
Legal defense and settlement costs
Theft or damage to tools and equipment stored in vehicles
Key Coverage Options
Commercial auto insurance policies for irrigation contractors often include:
Liability Coverage: Protects against bodily injury and property damage caused by your vehicles while on the job. This is essential for complying with state requirements and client contracts.
Collision and Comprehensive Coverage: Covers repair or replacement costs if a vehicle is damaged in an accident, stolen, or affected by natural disasters.
Medical Payments Coverage: Pays for medical expenses if drivers or passengers are injured in a covered accident.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects your business if an accident is caused by another driver who lacks sufficient insurance.
Hired and Non-Owned Auto Coverage: Covers employees using personal vehicles for work-related tasks and rented vehicles used for irrigation projects.
Factors That Affect Premiums
Commercial auto insurance costs vary depending on:
Number and types of vehicles (trucks, vans, or trailers)
Employee driving records
Cargo value, including tools and irrigation equipment
State regulations and required coverage limits
Compliance and Contract Considerations
Many states require commercial liability coverage for business vehicles, and commercial contracts often specify minimum limits before a contractor can work on site. Contractors should also check whether they need hired and non-owned auto coverage to comply with client requirements. Resources like the Small Business Administration provide guidance on compliance and risk management.
How Wexford Insurance Helps
Wexford Insurance specializes in contractor insurance and helps irrigation installers design a commercial auto policy that fits their fleet, operations, and budget. Wexford ensures your coverage meets state and client requirements while protecting vehicles, crews, and equipment from financial loss.
Proper commercial auto insurance not only protects your business but also builds credibility with clients and municipalities, showing you are a professional, responsible contractor.
