What insurance does a tree service / arborist need?
Not all professions face the same risks. Below is a breakdown of every coverage type relevant to tree service / arborists — what each one covers, whether it's required, and what you should expect to pay in 2026.
General LiabilityRequired
$150–$400/mo
Essential and expensive for tree services. Covers property damage and injuries from tree removal and trimming operations.
Workers CompensationRequired
$200–$500/mo
Tree work is one of the most dangerous trades. Workers comp is mandatory in most states and critical for this industry.
Commercial AutoRequired
$100–$250/mo
Covers your trucks, trailers, and equipment in transit.
Inland Marine
$40–$100/mo
Covers chainsaws, chippers, cranes, and other expensive tree service equipment.
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Top risks for tree service / arborists
- Tree falling on property or person
- Employee injury from falling
- Chainsaw or equipment accident
- Vehicle accident
- Property damage to structures
How much does insurance cost?
Most tree service / arborists pay $300–$800/month for a complete coverage package. Your exact cost depends on your state, annual revenue, whether you have employees, your claims history, and the coverage limits you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Why is tree service insurance so expensive?
Tree work is statistically one of the most dangerous occupations. High injury rates and significant property damage potential make it a high-risk category for insurers, driving up premiums.
What if a tree I remove falls on a house?
A tree falling on a structure is one of the most costly claims in the industry. General liability insurance covers property damage — but your limits need to be high enough. Most tree services carry $1M–$2M minimum.
Do I need insurance for just tree trimming?
Yes. Even trimming operations carry significant risk of falling branches causing property damage or injury. General liability is essential regardless of the scope of work.
How to get the best rate
The fastest way to find the lowest rate is to compare multiple carriers side by side. Most tree service / arborists can get quotes from 3–5 insurers in under 10 minutes and receive their certificate of insurance the same day.