Landscaping Contractors Insurance Requirements in New York

Yes, if they apply any fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, or chemical treatments. Standard GL policies exclude pollution events, meaning a chemical overspray that damages a tenant's vehicle or causes a health complaint would not be covered. Require at least $500K in pollution liability and verify the contractor holds the appropriate state pesticide applicator license.

Tree work (removal, pruning, stump grinding) is significantly higher risk than standard landscaping and carries different WC class codes with much higher rates. Many landscaping GL policies exclude or limit tree work above a certain height. For any significant tree work, either require the landscaper to confirm their policy covers it without exclusion, or hire a dedicated tree service contractor with appropriate coverage.

Require $1M combined single limit on commercial auto covering all owned vehicles, plus hired and non-owned auto coverage. Landscaping contractors operate trucks and trailers on public roads and within your property daily. Their vehicles and equipment trailers create regular exposure to third-party property damage and bodily injury claims.

Many landscapers hire seasonal workers during peak growing season, which can create workers' compensation gaps if coverage is not properly maintained. Verify that the WC policy covers all employees including seasonal and temporary workers. Request updated COIs at the start of each season to confirm coverage limits and employee counts are current.

Licensing requirements for landscaping contractors vary by municipality in New York. Check with your local licensing board and always request proof of current licensure on the COI.

In New York, you as the property manager could be held liable for injuries or damages caused by an uninsured landscaping contractors on your property. New York courts have consistently ruled that property owners have a duty to verify contractor insurance before allowing work to begin.