Construction Insurance Specialists
Specialist Cover for High-Risk Work
Tree surgery is one of the most dangerous trades in the UK. Working at height with chainsaws, often near power lines or public roads, comes with serious risk. Whether you’re a sole trader or running a team, the right insurance isn’t optional, it’s a critical part of running a professional business.
We work with a specialist provider who understands the unique risks of arboriculture and has access to insurance schemes that aren’t available through standard online quote platforms. This ensures you get a policy that actually covers what you do, without unnecessary extras or hidden exclusions.
What Should Tree Surgeon Insurance Include?
A comprehensive policy should protect:
- Public liability – Covers injury or property damage caused by your work. Most tree surgeons opt for £5 million or more, especially if working near the public or on highways.
- Employers’ liability – A legal requirement if you employ anyone, including part-time or subcontracted staff.
- Tools and equipment cover – Chainsaws, climbing gear, rigging kits, stump grinders and other equipment are high-value targets. Make sure your policy includes overnight theft protection.
- Vehicle and trailer cover – Standard van insurance often won’t cover your equipment or specialist trailers unless specified.
- Personal accident cover – Essential for sole traders. This provides a financial safety net if you suffer a serious injury and can’t work.
- Professional indemnity – Optional but relevant if you provide advice, reports, or planning-related services.
How It Works
We don’t offer instant online quotes. Instead, we collect a few key details and pass them to our specialist provider, who will contact you directly to build a policy tailored to your work. They understand the risks involved and can offer expert guidance and access to bespoke schemes designed for the arboriculture sector.
Start Your Quote
If you carry out tree work professionally, the risk of working without proper insurance is simply too high. Complete our short form and a specialist adviser will be in touch to help you find the right cover.
Tree Surgeon Cover FAQs
Is public liability insurance essential for tree surgeons?
Yes. Due to the high-risk nature of the work, public liability insurance is a must-have for tree surgeons. It protects against claims for injury or property damage caused while working.
Does tree surgeon insurance cover damage to a client’s property?
If you include public liability cover in your policy, yes, it can protect you against the cost of accidental damage to a customer’s home, fence, shed, or surrounding land.
Are my climbing equipment and chainsaws covered?
Tool and equipment cover is an optional add-on that can insure valuable kit like harnesses, ropes, saws, and stump grinders, whether on-site or in transit.
Can I get cover as a self-employed tree surgeon?
Yes. Whether you’re a sole trader or part of a larger firm, insurance can be tailored to your setup. Let the insurer know how you operate when getting a quote.
Will my insurance cover subcontractors?
If you hire subcontractors, you’ll need to disclose this. Some insurers require you to have employers’ liability insurance, even if the subcontractors are not permanent staff.
What happens if I’m injured and can’t work?
Personal accident cover can be added to pay out a lump sum or regular income if you’re unable to work following an accident.
Can I pay monthly?
Most providers offer monthly instalment options, though paying annually is often cheaper in the long run.
