4 Ways Agents Can Help Tree Care Clients Strengthen Their Insurance Profile

• September 8, 2025

By Rory Anderson

Independent insurance agents are responsible for representing their client’s business in the insurance marketplace and how that client’s company is presented to insurers makes a real difference. There is a clear distinction between a submission that includes only the basics—an application and loss runs—and one that provides a complete picture of the client’s operations, safety practices and credentials.

When it comes to clients that provide tree care services, what exactly can you do to help your client stand out in the eyes of an underwriter? What are they looking for when deciding whether or not to offer terms?

Here are four factors that can move the needle in a client’s favor:

1) Safety culture and documentation. A documented safety program goes a long way with underwriters because they want evidence that safety is part of your client’s daily operations. Underwriters look for:

• Commitment from the leadership team that safety is a priority.
• Written safety manual and job hazard analysis process.
• Regular, documented safety meetings, including toolbox talks and formal training.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) usage policies and enforcement.
• A process for documenting when a client declines recommended work. For example, if your client advises their client to remove a hazardous tree and their client refuses, a signed acknowledgment or internal log can help limit future liability.

The more specific and consistent your client’s documentation, the more confidence an underwriter will have in how the risk is managed in the field.

2) Fleet management and driver oversight. Auto losses are one of the biggest concerns in the tree care industry. Underwriters pay close attention to how your client manages their vehicles and drivers. They  look for:

• A written driver policy, including motor vehicle record (MVR) screening and standards.
• Use of telematics to monitor speed, location and driving behavior.
• A formal accident investigation plan in the case of an incident, which should include a written description, witness statements and photographs.
• Regular vehicle inspections and maintenance logs.

If a client is actively managing their fleet and driver risk, it sends a clear message that their team is working to prevent losses before they happen.

3) Claims history. Most companies have claims. However, it’s how they respond that matters most. Underwriters are more inclined to offer favorable terms when they see that a client has taken steps to learn from past incidents and improve their processes, including:

• Timely and accurate reporting of all claims.
• Documentation of corrective actions taken after an incident.
• Written loss narratives on large claims explaining the root cause and what’s been done to prevent a recurrence.
• Using the claim incident as a teaching tool to prevent similar accidents.

4) Industry credentials and professional involvement. Credentials and affiliations show that your client’s company operates at a higher standard. Accreditations and active memberships in the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), certified International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborists on staff, and accreditations as Certified Treecare Safety Professionals (CTSPs) are important to share with underwriters.

These credentials reflect a commitment to professionalism, ongoing education and adherence to industry best practices.

Insurance carriers make decisions based on how they perceive your client’s risk. Companies that demonstrate strong safety practices, solid operations, and industry commitment typically secure better outcomes. Agents that understand a client’s business can clearly communicate to underwriters the value of their risk management efforts.

Rory Anderson is a partner in the Landscape and Tree Care Group at Rancho Mesa Insurance Services Inc.