Snow Removal Insurance: Let’s Talk Liability and Coverage Like It’s Winter Olympics Drama
Ah, snow removal—a business where one minute you’re clearing driveways like a hero, and the next, you’re tangled in liability like it’s a surprise snowstorm in April. Here’s the deal: snow removal laws vary wildly. Some instances will allow you to wave you off the incident with a “You’re not responsible for third-party injuries,” while others? They slap you with liability for injuries both during and after the snow’s gone. It’s a plot twist no one asks for, but here we are.
Why You Need Commercial General Liability Insurance
Think of commercial general liability insurance as your legal snowplow—it clears the mess when property damage or injuries come sliding your way. This policy helps cover legal defense costs if someone sues you because they slipped, fell, or got hit by a rogue pile of snow your crew shoved aside.
Pro tip: Ask your insurance agent about adding a completed-operations endorsement. This little gem has your back for incidents that happen after you’re off the property. For example, if someone slides into a snowbank you piled up, you’re still covered. Snow removal: it’s risky business!
Oh, and rooftop snow removal? That’s next-level risky. Make sure your policy covers that too.
Beyond Liability: Your Winter Coverage Checklist
1. Commercial Truck/Auto Insurance
If your snowplows and trucks are clocking in for duty, they need coverage. Whether it’s a lone truck or a fleet of snow-moving machines, make sure your policy includes detachable equipment like snow blades.
Got employees using their own cars? Add hired and non-owned auto insurance to protect them. And if you’re working with subcontractors, require proof of insurance that matches your liability levels—no freeloaders here.
Bonus PSA for landscapers moonlighting as snowplowers: your existing vehicle insurance might not cover snow gigs. Don’t assume; confirm.
2. Commercial Property Insurance
If you’ve got an office commercial property insurance covers damage to things like tools, or equipment. From theft to burst pipes, you’re good to go. But heads up: if floods, earthquakes, or wildfires come knocking, you’ll need extra policies.
Want more peace of mind? Add equipment breakdown coverage for unexpected repairs or business interruption insurance if a winter disaster halts operations.
3. Umbrella Insurance
Think of this as your “just in case” policy. If a claim maxes out your primary coverage, umbrella insurance steps in to save the day. It’s like extra marshmallows on hot cocoa—comforting and necessary when things get sticky.
Bundle Up for Better Coverage
Here’s a hack: instead of piecing together policies, ask your insurance broker about tailored packages. Whether it’s a snow removal-specific program or a broader business owner’s policy, bundling can save you money and stress.
Final Word
Snow removal isn’t just about plowing driveways—it’s about plowing through risks and responsibilities like a pro. Keep your business covered, your clients safe, and your sanity intact. Winter is coming (again), but you’ll be ready.
This post is here to educate, not to replace your insurance pro. Chat with a licensed expert to make sure your snow-removal business is all set to brave the blizzards.