So, what types of insurance does a pest control company need? Let's break it down.
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General Liability Insurance
This is the foundation of most pest control business policies. It covers third-party property damage, bodily injury, and legal defense if you're sued.
Why it matters:
Accidents happen. A technician could accidentally spray pesticide on a customer’s landscaping, or a client might trip over your equipment. General liability helps cover the costs, so you’re not paying out of pocket.
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Commercial Auto Insurance
If your team uses company vehicles to travel between job sites, you’ll need commercial auto insurance. Personal auto policies usually won’t cover work-related accidents.
What it covers:
- Vehicle collisions
- Property damage caused by your vehicles
- Theft or vandalism
- Medical payments for injuries
Pro tip: Even if employees drive their own cars for work, you may need hired and non-owned auto coverage as part of your insurance.
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Workers’ Compensation Insurance
If you have employees, workers comp is typically required by state law. It protects your team and your business when someone gets hurt on the job.
What it covers:
- Medical bills from work-related injuries
- Lost wages during recovery
- Ongoing care for serious injuries
Real talk: Pest control isn’t without its hazards. Ladder falls, bites, and chemical exposure are all possibilities. Workers comp makes sure that your employees and your business are financially protected when the unexpected happens.
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Professional Liability Insurance
Sometimes called “errors and omissions” coverage, professional liability insurance protects you if a client claims that your pest control service caused damage or didn’t work as promised.
Examples:
A termite treatment fails, and the client experiences significant property damage
You apply the wrong pesticide, and it ruins a valuable surface
Even if the claim isn’t valid, you may still need to defend yourself in court. This policy helps cover legal fees and settlements.
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Property Insurance
Property insurance protects the physical things your business relies on, like your office space, equipment, and storage facility.
What it typically covers:
- Fire, theft, or vandalism
- Storm damage
- Equipment repair or replacement
If you lease a space or store chemicals and tools somewhere, property insurance can be a critical safety net.
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Umbrella Insurance
Umbrella insurance provides extra coverage above the limits of your other liability policies. It’s especially useful if your business faces a high-dollar lawsuit or claim.
Why you should consider it:
Let’s say your general liability policy covers up to $1 million, but you’re hit with a $1.5 million judgment. Umbrella coverage can bridge that gap, so your business (and your personal assets) aren’t left exposed.
What coverage does my pest control business need?
The exact insurance you’ll need depends on your state laws, business structure, and client requirements. For example:
- Most states require workers comp if you have employees.
- Commercial auto insurance is usually required if you own or operate vehicles for work purposes.
- Many clients, especially commercial or municipal ones, require proof of general liability and workers comp insurance before hiring you.
The Bottom Line
Insurance protects your pest control business from the risks you can’t always see coming. And while it may feel like just another expense, it’s far less costly than an uncovered claim.
If you're unsure what coverage you need or whether your current policy is sufficient, I can help. I work with pest control businesses like yours frequently and understand the real-world risks you face.
Reach out today for personalized guidance and coverage that fits your business
